May in Guelph: Gardens, Grills & Great Homes
Happy May! We’ve officially made it to the "unofficial" kickoff to summer—the May Long Weekend. Whether you call it Victoria Day or the "May Two-Four," there is a certain magic in the air this time of year in Guelph (hopefully it's not snow that is in the air!!). You can practically hear the collective sigh of relief as patio umbrellas are dusted off and the line-ups at the local garden centres start to grow.
In the real estate world, things are just as vibrant; homes are looking their absolute best as the grass greens up, and we are seeing some truly beautiful properties hit the market. Before you fire up the grill or head out for a long weekend adventure, here is your monthly dose of home-care wisdom and a chance to win a gardener's dream prize.
Your May Home Hacks
With the long weekend marking the start of "outdoor season," here are three quick tips to ensure your home (and garden) are ready for the sunshine:
The AC "Test Drive": Don’t wait for the first 30°C humidity spike to find out your air conditioner isn't happy. Give it a test run this weekend! Turn it on, let it run for 15 minutes, and ensure you’re getting crisp, cool air. Also, take a peek at your outdoor unit—if it’s clogged with cottonwood fuzz or last year's leaves, a gentle spray with a garden hose (aimed downward) can improve its efficiency significantly.
The "May Two-Four" Planting Rule: It is the golden rule of Ontario gardening: try to wait until after this weekend to put your tender annuals (like tomatoes, peppers, or petunias) in the ground. While the afternoons feel like summer, we can still get a sneaky frost in mid-May (like every day!) that will break a gardener's heart. Use this weekend to prep your beds and pots, then plant with confidence once the holiday passes!
Outdoor Faucet Check: Before you hook up the sprinkler for the first time, check your outdoor faucets for "invisible" winter damage. Turn the water on and then plug the opening with your thumb. If you can stop the flow easily, or if you hear water running/hissing inside the wall, you might have a cracked pipe from a winter freeze. It’s a 10-second test that can save you from a messy indoor flood later.
Win a $100 Gift Card to Brock Road Nursery!
Since the May long weekend is the "Holy Grail" for local gardeners, we couldn't think of a better prize. This month, we are giving away a $100 gift card to Brock Road Nursery!
Whether you’re looking for that perfect statement Japanese Maple, fresh perennials to boost your curb appeal, or some stunning hanging baskets for the front porch, Brock Road is a Guelph favorite for a reason. Their selection is incredible, and their staff really know their stuff. It’s the perfect excuse to spend a sunny afternoon getting your garden "magazine-ready." Details on how to enter are inside!
We wish you a safe, sunny, and relaxing long weekend.
Market Update: What We’re Seeing Right Now
Here’s your April market update compared to April 2025.
Starting with detached homes, we saw 76 sales this month, representing a modest increase of 1.3% year over year. Average sale prices adjusted slightly, down 3.7%, with the average detached home selling for approximately $887,000.
In the semi-detached segment, activity was more limited. Sales declined 18.2%, with 9 total transactions recorded. Average prices softened marginally as well, down 2.3% year over year to approximately $713,000.
The condo and apartment market experienced the most significant shift. Sales were down 24.1%, while average prices decreased 18.5%, bringing the average sale price to roughly $456,000.
Overall, we’re continuing to see a more balanced and price-conscious market. Detached homes remain relatively stable, while the condo sector is experiencing greater adjustment in both activity and pricing.
As always, real estate is highly location and property specific. If you’d like to discuss how these trends may impact your home or buying plans, feel free to reach out anytime.
What’s Happening Around Town
May has arrived, and with it comes sunshine, blooming gardens, patio season, and plenty of exciting events happening in and around Guelph! From family-friendly activities to local festivals, markets, and unique community experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this month:
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Guelph Farmer’s Market
2 Gordon St, Guelph, ON N1H 4G7A fun Saturday outing with local vendors, baked goods, live entertainment, and a great family atmosphere.
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Fergus Fibre Festival
St. Andrew Street West, Fergus (between Tower and St. David Streets)
Free Entry | Free Parking | Free Shuttle ServiceA vibrant fibre arts festival featuring alpacas, sheep, weaving demonstrations, food trucks, vendors, and family-friendly activities including a scavenger hunt.
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City of Guelph Events
50 Municipal Street
Guelph, Ontario N1G 4W5A fun free event where kids can explore city trucks, heavy equipment, and interactive displays.
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Calling all craft beer fans — the Guelph Beer Bus is returning for 2026! Running one Saturday each month from April through November, this popular brewery tour makes stops at five local favourites: Royal City Brewing, Sleeman Brewery, Brothers Brewing, Fixed Gear Brewing, and Wellington Brewery. Hop aboard between 12 PM and 7 PM on select Saturdays and enjoy a fun day exploring Guelph’s local craft beer scene, each month featuring its own unique theme:
April 18, 2026 • Ugly Sweater Day
May 23, 2026 • 80’s Retro
June 13, 2026 • Dress Like Dad
July 11, 2026 • Tropical Luau
August 22, 2026 • Summer Camp
September 19, 2026 • Oktoberfest
October 17, 2026 • Halloween
November 14, 2026 • Guelph.Beer Day
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River Run Centre-
Studio Theatre
35 Woolwich Street
Guelph ON
N1H 3V1Interactive musical performances designed especially for younger children with lots of audience participation.
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Meadows Festival
Sportsplex • 550 Belsyde Ave E • Fergus OntarioAn outdoor music festival with food vendors, live performances, and relaxed daytime family-friendly vibes.
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The Children's Art Factory -
37 Yarmouth St., Guelph, ON, N1H 4G2Creative art and sensory play experiences for kids and families running throughout the month.
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One of our favourite things each year is getting the chance to celebrate with the amazing clients who support our business. If you’re a past or present client of ours, keep an eye on your inbox — invitations for our annual Brokerage Street Party will be heading out soon!
This exclusive client event is always a great day filled with family fun, food, activities, and a chance to connect with our community. We can’t wait to celebrate with you again this year!
Don’t Miss This Giveaway
A $100 gift card to refresh your garden at Brock Road Nursery
In celebration of Mother’s Day, we’re giving away a $100 gift card to Brock Road Nursery! Whether you’re dreaming of beautiful spring flowers, fresh greenery, or the perfect plants to brighten up your outdoor space, this giveaway is the perfect way to treat yourself or a special mom in your life this season. 🌷
Entering is simple! Just watch the video included in this email and sign up for your chance to win. Know another family who would love this amazing prize? Share the excitement and have them sign up too athttps://jessandscott.com/newsletter.
Homes in the Spotlight
Dreaming about your next home? Browse our featured listings and see if the one you’ve been waiting for is here.