🌳 Neighbourhood Spotlight: Why Laurelwood Is Still One of Waterloo’s Most Sought-After Communities

If you’ve ever met someone who lives in Laurelwood, you’ve probably heard them say, “Oh, we’ll never leave.” And they mean it.

Nestled in the northwest corner of Waterloo, Laurelwood is one of those rare neighbourhoods that ticks all the boxes: family-friendly, nature-forward, close to everything, and built around a true sense of community.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a growing family, or looking to downsize without compromise, Laurelwood continues to be one of the most desirable areas in Waterloo Region—and 2025 is proving that hasn’t changed one bit.

Let’s take a stroll through what makes Laurelwood so special (and why homes here don’t stay on MLS® for long).

🏡 A Quick Overview

Laurelwood sits west of Fischer-Hallman and north of Columbia, bordered by conservation land and Laurel Creek. The community began to develop in the late 1990s and early 2000s, and today it’s home to a perfect mix of modern family homes, peaceful crescents, and tree-lined trails.

The vibe? Suburban calm meets city convenience.

Here, you’ll find families biking to the park, retirees walking their dogs by the water, and students heading to nearby universities. It’s the kind of place where people actually stop to chat on the sidewalk (yes, even in winter).

📚 Schools: The #1 Reason Families Flock to Laurelwood

Let’s be honest—school zones can make or break a home search, and Laurelwood’s are legendary.

The neighbourhood is home to some of Waterloo’s top-rated schools, consistently earning A+ rankings:

• Laurelwood Public School – One of the highest-rated elementary schools in the region.

• St. Nicholas Catholic School – A staple for families seeking Catholic education.

• Sir John A. Macdonald Secondary School (SJAM) – A major draw for families with older kids, known for its academics, athletics, and arts programs.

If you’re buying with family in mind, these schools are a huge reason Laurelwood remains the go-to neighbourhood.

🌲 Nature and Outdoor Living

If you crave green space, Laurelwood delivers in spades.

The Laurel Creek Conservation Area practically borders the neighbourhood, offering kayaking, trails, birdwatching, and a beach for summer swims. The Laurel Trail system connects you to natural escapes and parks throughout the city, making it easy to step outside and actually enjoy where you live.

Residents love:

• Waterloo GeoTime Trail (for weekend walks or cycling)

• Laurelwood Park (with playgrounds and open green space)

• Greenbelt pathways (for running, dog walks, and stroller adventures)

It’s a neighbourhood built for movement and mindfulness—no wonder it’s so popular with active families.

🏠 What Homes Look Like Here

Most of Laurelwood’s homes were built between 1998 and 2010, so you’ll find a mix of classic detached 2-storey homes, updated townhouses, and the occasional custom build tucked into a quiet court.

Expect:
✔️ Open-concept layouts
✔️ 3–4 bedrooms
✔️ Finished basements
✔️ Larger lots than most new builds

And yes, the curb appeal game here is strong—lots of mature trees, tidy gardens, and neighbours who genuinely care about their homes.

As of Fall 2025:

Even with market fluctuations, Laurelwood homes hold value extremely well. That’s why so many buyers are willing to wait (and compete) for a listing here.

☕ Amenities & Local Favourites

Laurelwood may be residential, but you’re never far from what you need:

• Laurelwood Plaza: Home to Food Basics, Starbucks, and local restaurants (plus the iconic Sushi 99 🍣).

• University of Waterloo & Wilfrid Laurier University: A short drive or bus ride away.

• The Boardwalk Shopping District: 10 minutes south for major retail, movies, and dining.

• Public Transit Access: Routes along Erbsville and Columbia connect you quickly to Uptown Waterloo and beyond.

And don’t forget: the community library and YMCA are right nearby—perfect for families looking to get involved locally.

🔍 Real Estate Trends in Laurelwood (Fall 2025)

Here’s what we’re seeing on the ground right now:

• Inventory remains low – especially for detached homes under $1.1M.

• Buyers are strategic, often waiting for the “right” house in this neighbourhood.

• Move-up buyers dominate – families upsizing but staying within Laurelwood.

• Townhomes are in high demand – they’re the entry point into the area, and competition can be fierce.

In short: Laurelwood continues to be a smart, stable investment.

Even as newer subdivisions expand elsewhere in Waterloo Region, Laurelwood’s established charm and unbeatable location keep it top-tier.

🧭 Thinking About Moving to Laurelwood?

Whether you’re buying your first home, relocating within Waterloo, or selling your Laurelwood property to level up, we can help you time your move right and maximize your results.

Because the truth is—homes here don’t need gimmicks to sell. They just need the right prep, pricing, and marketing plan.

And that’s our specialty.

📲 Let’s Talk Laurelwood

If you’ve been waiting for “the right time” to make a move, this might be it. Mortgage rates just nudged down, demand is steady, and fall buyers are motivated.

Let’s put your plan together—whether it’s for next month or next spring.

Call or text us anytime:
📞 Charlotte: 519-575-1804
📞 Nathan: 226-929-6369

We’ll bring the real talk, a few laughs, and maybe even a Laurelwood coffee shop recommendation or two. ☕