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🏡 Old University: Charm and Character Close to Downtown Tucked between the Speed River and the University of Guelph, Old University is one of Guelph’s most sought-after and storied neighbourhoods. With tree-lined streets, mid-century homes, and a walkable location close to both campus and downtown, it offers a rare blend of character, convenience, and community. If you’re looking for a neighbourhood with soul—and not just square footage— Old University may be exactly what you’re after. 🌳 A Neighbourhood Steeped in History The name “Old University” comes from its proximity to the original University of Guelph campus , and the neighbourhood's roots date back to the early to mid-20th century. Many of the homes here were built in the 1940s to 1970s and reflect a mix of classic red brick bungalows, charming story-and-a-halfs, and larger custom homes . It's a place where homeowners plant roots for decades—and where curb appeal isn't manufactured, it's authentic. 🏫 Why People Love Living Here 1. Walkability & Location Old University is just a short walk to: Downtown Guelph – cafés, restaurants, and shops University of Guelph – great for faculty, students, or professionals Royal City Park and the Speed River Trails – perfect for runners, dog-walkers, or a quiet stroll 2. Top-Rated Schools Families are drawn to the area for strong public and French Immersion options like: John McCrae Public School École King George (FI) 3. Architectural Character This isn’t a subdivision of copy-paste houses. Here, no two homes are exactly alike. The mature trees, wide streets, and mix of house styles give Old University an established charm that newer neighbourhoods simply can’t replicate. ☕ Lifestyle & Community Living in Old University means being close to: Downtown coffee shops like Red Brick Café & Kanoo Coffee The Boathouse Tea Room along the river The University Arboretum – a local favourite for peaceful nature walks The community vibe is laid-back, intellectual, and neighbourly. You’re just as likely to see professors biking to class as you are to see kids playing soccer in the yard. It’s a neighbourhood with real personality , not just polished edges. 💰 Real Estate Snapshot Homes in Old University range from modest bungalows to fully renovated family homes , often sitting on large, mature lots. Inventory tends to be limited —and when homes hit the market, they’re snapped up quickly. Home Style Typical Price Range 2-bed bungalow $850K–$1M 3–4 bed family home $1M–$1.5M+ Renovated custom builds $1.5M–$2M+ 💡 Pro Tip: Many homes in this neighbourhood have unfinished basements with potential , or are suitable for modest upgrades that dramatically increase value. 🏁 Final Thoughts Old University is one of those rare neighbourhoods where location, character, and community all intersect . Whether you’re raising a family, downsizing with style, or just want to walk to downtown and the trails, this area has timeless appeal. 📩 Interested in buying in Old University or selling your home there? I’d be happy to help you explore what’s available—or position your home to stand out in this high-demand pocket of Guelph. Let’s find you a home that has both story—and stories to come.

🛠️ Finished Basements: Value Booster or Money Pit? A finished basement is often seen as a dream upgrade—more living space, room for guests, a home gym, or even a rental unit. But before you start budgeting for drywall and pot lights, it’s worth asking: does finishing your basement actually add value , or can it turn into a costly mistake? Let’s break down the pros, cons, and financial impact of finishing a basement in Guelph (or anywhere in Ontario). ✅ The Value of a Finished Basement 1. Extra Living Space Whether you add a rec room, extra bedroom, or office, finished basements make your home more functional—especially in smaller homes where space is limited upstairs. 🧡 Bonus: In family-friendly neighbourhoods like Kortright Hills or West End, finished basements are in high demand for growing families. 2. Increased Resale Appeal Buyers love turnkey homes. A well-finished basement can make your property stand out, particularly in competitive areas like South Guelph or Exhibition Park. 📈 According to Ontario real estate appraisals, a properly finished basement can add up to 50-70% of its renovation cost to the home's value . 3. Potential Rental Income Legal basement apartments are a hot commodity in Guelph. With the rental market tight, adding a second suite can bring in $1,500–$2,000+ per month. ✔️ But make sure it’s legal! That means separate entrance, fire code compliance, and proper zoning. ⚠️ The Risks (a.k.a. The “Money Pit” Side) 1. High Upfront Costs The average cost to finish a basement in Guelph ranges from $40,000–$90,000 , depending on size, finishes, and whether you add a bathroom or kitchen. Without a clear goal (resale vs. rental vs. personal use), it’s easy to overspend and never fully recoup the costs. 2. Waterproofing and Moisture Basements are prone to moisture issues. If not properly sealed, your drywall, flooring, or furniture could be damaged—leading to costly repairs. 💡 Tip: Always address waterproofing, insulation, and ventilation before finishing anything. 3. Permits & Legal Compliance Finishing a basement without permits or inspections can come back to bite you during resale. Banks, insurance companies, and buyers may request proof the work was done to code. 🧱 Especially important if you're adding bedrooms, bathrooms, or a separate unit. 4. Low-Quality Work Hurts Value A poorly finished basement—cheap flooring, bad lighting, weird layout—can actually turn buyers off. It’s better to have an unfinished but clean and dry basement than one that feels rushed or DIY-gone-wrong. 💰 So, Does It Pay Off? Here’s a quick breakdown of when a finished basement does pay off: Scenario Potential ROI Functional rec space Medium (50–60%) Legal 1-bedroom unit High (Rental income + 60–80%) Luxury finishes in a lower-priced home Low Done without permits or waterproofing Negative ROI 🏡 Guelph-Specific Insight In Guelph’s south end , buyers love finished basements for extra bedrooms or home offices. In The Ward and West End , there’s demand for duplexed properties with legal basement apartments.  📍If you're planning to sell in the next 3–5 years, a clean, simple, and functional basement finish can boost your property’s appeal—and help your listing stand out in a crowded market. 🏁 Final Thoughts A finished basement can absolutely boost your home’s value , but only when it’s done for the right reasons and in the right way. It should solve a problem (like lack of space or income) rather than just look pretty. 📩 Thinking about finishing your basement or buying a home with one already done? I can help you evaluate whether it’s a true asset—or a money pit in disguise. Let’s make sure your next renovation (or purchase) works for your bottom line.