Wondering how to start investing in real estate? You’ve come to the right place! Welcome to GoWylde’s comprehensive investor blog and video series. Whether you’re just getting into the game or you’re a seasoned investing pro, this series will cover Guelph property investment strategies to help you diversify your portfolio, build generational wealth, and succeed as a real estate investor in Guelph.
We’ll be adding more to this page in the coming weeks, so make sure you bookmark the page or check back for new videos!
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- Why Guelph is a Good Place to Invest in Real Estate
- Renting to Students in Guelph, Ontario
- Renting to Families and Young Professionals in Guelph, Ontario
- Best University Towns to Buy an Investment Property
- The Ultimate Guide to Adding ADUs
Why Guelph is a Good Place to Invest in Real Estate
Guelph’s real estate market is booming, and savvy investors are seizing opportunities before it’s too late. Ranked Canada’s #1 city to buy real estate by MoneySense, Guelph offers strong economic fundamentals, high rental demand, and a thriving quality of life—making it a prime destination for investment.
Why Invest in Guelph?
Strong Economy & Job Market – Guelph has a low unemployment rate (5.3%), with major employers like Linamar (12,000+ jobs), the University of Guelph (30,000 students), and a strong agricultural and government sector.
High Rental Demand & Low Vacancy Rates – With only 1.3% vacancy, Guelph has one of Canada’s tightest rental markets. 25,000+ students live off-campus, driving up rents, which currently average $2,054 for a one-bedroom and $1000/room in a student house.
Prime Location for Commuters – Just an hour from Toronto, Guelph has frequent GO Train service, direct 401 access, and a new Highway 7 expansion connecting it to Kitchener-Waterloo.
Desirable Lifestyle & Strong Appreciation – Guelph blends big-city amenities with small-town charm, featuring beautiful parks, rivers, and historic architecture, while maintaining one of Canada’s lowest crime rates.
With its booming rental market, strong economy, and unbeatable location, Guelph is a top-tier investment destination.
Looking for even more resources for real estate investing in Guelph? Read A Complete Guide to Real Estate Investing in Guelph right here!
Renting to Students in Guelph
Renting to students in Guelph, Ontario: Top Neighbourhoods, Housing Types, and Investor Tips
With over 25,000 University of Guelph students living off-campus, renting to students in Guelph, Ontario is a high-demand, high-reward opportunity for real estate investors. In recent years, on-campus housing shortages have pushed even first-year students to seek rental accommodations, making student rentals a stable and lucrative investment.
While some landlords worry about tenant turnover and maintenance, proper screening and parent guarantors can help ensure reliable renters. The ability to adjust rents frequently and maintain high occupancy rates makes this tenant type particularly attractive.
Best Housing Types for Investors
1. Purpose-Built Student Housing
Properties like Solstice 1 & 2 (1219 & 1291 Gordon St) cater exclusively to students.
✅ Pros: High rental demand, premium rent potential, and top-tier amenities.
❌ Cons: Limited resale market, financing challenges, and strict student-oriented layouts.
2. Condo Townhouses
✅ Pros: Lower maintenance, diverse tenant appeal, and prime locations near UoG.
❌ Cons: Condo fees can cut into profits, and rules may limit rental flexibility.
For investors seeking no condo fees, freehold townhouses are an alternative, though they require more upkeep due to larger lots.
3️⃣ Detached Homes
Larger homes with 4-6 bedrooms are excellent for group student rentals
✅ Pros: Higher rental income potential and long-term investment value.
❌ Cons: More maintenance, possible neighbourhood concerns, and seasonal vacancy risks.
Top Student Rental Neighbourhoods in Guelph
📍 Kortright West – A student hotspot close to UoG, transit, and shopping. Affordable for both renters and first-time buyers.
📍 Old University/Dovercliffe – Historic charm with great access to downtown, GO Transit, and campus. Many homes feature accessory apartments for extra rental income.
📍 Pineridge/Clairfields – Modern townhouses and condos with direct bus access to UoG, ideal for mature students seeking newer housing.
Renting to students in Guelph is a profitable and steady investment with high demand year-round. The right property type and location can help maximize rental income while minimizing risks.
As a university town, Guelph has a significant number of student rentals. If you’re curious about this type of investment, read our post Benefits of Buying a Student Rental right here.
Renting to Families and Young Professionals in Guelph, Ontario
Renting to Families and Young Professionals in Guelph, Ontario: Top Investment Properties
With Guelph’s rental market heavily driven by student demand, the growing shortage of family and young professional rentals presents a lucrative opportunity for investors. With major employers like Linamar, proximity to the GO Train, and easy access to Toronto and Highway 401, Guelph attracts tenants seeking long-term rental stability.
Top Investment Properties for Families & Young Professionals
1️⃣ Additional Dwelling Units (ADUs) – Secondary suites within homes offer multiple rental streams while maximizing space efficiency. It is signifigantly cheaper to add one of these unit to a current property, than purchasing a secondary investment property. In Guelph, investors can add up to two ADUs per property, significantly increasing income potential.
2️⃣ Duplexes & Triplexes – Multi-unit properties provide higher cash flow potential and cater to families and working professionals seeking long-term rentals. With separate units, landlords benefit from diversified income streams and reduced vacancy risks. Many duplexes and triplexes in Guelph feature independent entrances, private outdoor spaces, and separate utilities, making them highly desirable for tenants.
Best Neighbourhoods for Young Professionals & Families
📍 Downtown Guelph – High walkability, easy GO Train access, and a mix of modern and historic homes.
📍 Exhibition Park – A family-friendly neighbourhood with great schools and strong rental demand.
📍 St. George’s Park – Prestigious and peaceful, attracting high-quality tenants.
📍 General Hospital Area – Ideal for healthcare professionals, with rental-friendly bungalows featuring accessory units.
📍 Kortright Hills – Suburban feel, near parks, schools, and major commuter routes.
Each housing type in Guelph offers a unique investment opportunity, whether you’re aiming for stable family rentals, high-yield student housing, or income-diversifying multi-units. Investors should consider their priorities, from ease of management to rental income stability, and align these with the housing types that best suit their goals in Guelph’s diverse rental market.
Best University Towns to Buy Investment Property: Where to Invest for Maximum Returns
Investors love student rental properties—and for good reason. These properties offer stable demand, strong cash flow, and parental guarantees on rent, making them a recession-resistant investment. But not all university towns are created equal. Choosing the right market can maximize returns and long-term appreciation.
Why Buy an Investment Property in a University Town?
✅ Recession-Proof Demand – Universities maintain high enrollment, ensuring a steady flow of renters.
✅ High Turnover = Market Rent Adjustments – Frequent tenant turnover allows landlords to keep rent competitive.
✅ Lower Maintenance Costs – Student rentals don’t require luxury finishes, reducing initial investment.
✅ Strong Resale Value – Properties in high-demand university towns remain attractive to future investors.
Top University Towns for Student Rentals
🏡 Kingston (Queen’s University) – 20,500+ students living off-campus, ultra-low 0.8% vacancy rate, and strong 13% average annual appreciation. Student rentals generate $900+ per room and offer 6.62% cap rates.
🏡 Guelph (University of Guelph) – 25,000+ off-campus students, 1.8% vacancy rate, and expanding demand with 5,000 Conestoga College students arriving downtown. Rental rates are soaring, and Guelph’s 8.6% appreciation rate ensures excellent long-term returns.
🏡 Hamilton (McMaster University) – 26,000+ off-campus students, 2.4% vacancy rate, and an affordable $660K median home price make it a prime investment location. Student rentals here yield 6.61% cap rates with strong long-term appreciation (9.2%).
Buying an investment property in a high-demand university town ensures strong rental income, low vacancy risks, and long-term appreciation.
Do you have more questions about student rentals in Guelph? Here are some more blogs you might find helpful:
- Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Student Rental
- How to Choose the Best Neighbourhood for a Student Rental
- Should You Put Your Student Rental Under Your Child’s Name?
The Ultimate Guide to Adding ADUs: How to Turn an Average Property into a Cash Flow Machine
What is an ADU in Real Estate and Why Are They a Game-Changer for Investors?
Looking for more ways to earn passive income from your primary residence? Read our blog for tips and advice right here.
Types of ADUs & Their Investment Potential
Best Property Types for ADU Conversions
