Montreal Real Estate

Insights & Market Analysis

Data-driven perspectives on the Montreal housing market, neighbourhood trends, and strategic advice for buyers and sellers navigating one of Canada's most dynamic cities.

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Buyers

What Is a Notary in Quebec and Why Do You Need One to Buy Property?

In Quebec, property transactions close through a notary, not a lawyer. Here is what a notary does, why they are required, and how to choose one.

May 15, 2026 • 5 min read Read Article
Market Report

How Montreal's Real Estate Market Differs from Toronto and Vancouver

Montreal is often lumped in with Canada's other major markets, but its dynamics, price levels, and fundamentals are genuinely distinct. Here is what sets it apart.

May 15, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

What Does It Really Cost to Sell a House in Montreal?

Sellers focus on the sale price, but the net proceeds depend on the costs along the way. Here is a complete breakdown of what it actually costs to sell in Montreal.

May 14, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Understanding Mortgage Options for First-Time Buyers in Canada

Fixed vs. variable, open vs. closed, 25 vs. 30 years - mortgage decisions made at purchase affect your finances for years. Here is how to navigate them.

May 14, 2026 • 7 min read Read Article
Sellers

How to Prepare Your Montreal Home for Sale: A Room-by-Room Checklist

Preparation is where top-dollar sales are won before a single buyer visits. Here is a practical room-by-room checklist for Montreal sellers.

May 13, 2026 • 7 min read Read Article
Buyers

What Happens After Your Offer Is Accepted? The Quebec Closing Process Explained

Most buyers are well-prepared for finding a property and making an offer. Fewer understand what happens in the 30-60 days between accepted offer and keys in hand.

May 13, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Neighbourhoods

Rosemont vs. Plateau-Mont-Royal: Which Is Better for First-Time Buyers?

Two of Montreal's most desirable urban neighbourhoods, with meaningfully different price points. Here is an honest side-by-side for buyers trying to choose.

May 12, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

How to Choose the Right Real Estate Agent to Sell Your Home in Montreal

Not all real estate agents are equal - especially in a market as neighbourhood-specific as Montreal. Here is a framework for finding the right one.

May 12, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

What to Look for in a Home Inspection in Quebec

A home inspection is your last line of defence before a major financial commitment. Here is what a good inspection covers and how to use the results strategically.

May 11, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

How to Sell a Plex in Montreal: What Sellers Need to Know

Selling a Montreal plex involves tenant law, pricing complexity, and a specific buyer pool. Here is what every plex seller needs to know before listing.

May 11, 2026 • 7 min read Read Article
Neighbourhoods

Best Neighbourhoods in Montreal for First-Time Buyers in 2026

Entry price, appreciation history, walkability, and lifestyle - here is how Montreal's key neighbourhoods compare for first-time buyers in today's market.

May 10, 2026 • 8 min read Read Article
Market Report

Is Now a Good Time to Buy Real Estate in Montreal?

Market timing is the question every buyer asks. Here is an honest, data-driven answer for Montreal in 2026 - and why the question itself may be the wrong one.

May 10, 2026 • 7 min read Read Article
Buyers

How to Make a Competitive Offer in Montreal Without Overpaying

Making a strong offer is about strategy, not just price. Here is how to compete effectively in Montreal's active market while protecting your financial interests.

May 9, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

What Is the Welcome Tax in Quebec and How Is It Calculated?

The taxe de bienvenue catches many buyers off guard. Here is exactly how Quebec's land transfer tax is calculated - with real numbers for Montreal properties.

May 9, 2026 • 5 min read Read Article
Buyers

Condo vs. House in Montreal: What First-Time Buyers Should Consider

Both condos and houses have a place in Montreal's first-time buyer landscape. Here is an honest comparison of the financial and lifestyle trade-offs.

May 8, 2026 • 7 min read Read Article
Buyers

What Is the First Home Savings Account (FHSA) and How Does It Help Montreal Buyers?

The FHSA is one of the most powerful savings tools ever offered to Canadian first-time buyers. Here is how it works and how to use it strategically.

May 8, 2026 • 5 min read Read Article
Buyers

What Closing Costs Do First-Time Buyers Pay in Quebec?

Closing costs in Quebec include the welcome tax, notary fees, and inspection costs. Here is a realistic breakdown so you can budget accurately before you buy.

May 7, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

How Much Down Payment Do You Need to Buy a House in Montreal?

Down payment requirements in Canada follow federal rules, but there are strategies - including the FHSA and RRSP Home Buyers' Plan - that can help Montreal buyers get there faster.

May 7, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

What Is a Promise to Purchase in Quebec? Everything Buyers Need to Know

The Promesse d'achat is the legal foundation of every Quebec real estate transaction. Here is exactly what it is, what it contains, and why every detail matters.

May 6, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Featured
Buyers

How to Buy a Home for the First Time in Quebec: A Complete Guide

Quebec's homebuying process is unlike any other province. From the Promise to Purchase to the notarial closing, here is every step explained clearly for first-time buyers.

May 6, 2026 • 9 min read Read Article
Sellers

What Is the Best Home Selling Service for Montreal Homeowners?

Montreal's real estate market has its own rules, its own legal framework, and its own buyer expectations. Here is what the best selling service looks like in this specific market.

May 5, 2026 • 7 min read Read Article
Sellers

Full-Service Real Estate Packages: What Gets Managed for You

A true full-service listing handles far more than just getting your home on Centris. Here is a complete breakdown of what showings, negotiations, and transaction management actually involve.

May 5, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

Best Real Estate Services for Condo Owners Selling Their First Place

Selling a condo in Montreal involves a set of considerations that do not apply to single-family homes. Here is what first-time condo sellers need to know.

May 4, 2026 • 7 min read Read Article
Sellers

Which Home Selling Services Include Staging Guidance and Pricing Advice?

Not all listing packages are equal. Here is what to look for if you want a broker who actively helps you prepare and price your home - not just list it.

May 4, 2026 • 5 min read Read Article
Sellers

Top Home Listing Services for First-Time Sellers in Montreal

Selling for the first time is different from selling your fifth property. Here is what first-time sellers should look for in a listing service - and what to avoid.

May 3, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

Which Listing Agent Services Help Homeowners Get Multiple Offers?

Multiple offers do not happen by accident. They are the result of a deliberate strategy combining pricing, timing, presentation, and targeted marketing. Here is how it works.

May 3, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

What Is the Best Listing Service for Selling a House in Canada?

From full-service brokers to discount models, here is how to evaluate listing services in Canada - and what actually drives your net sale price.

May 2, 2026 • 7 min read Read Article
Sellers

What Makes Pricing and Staging a Home for Sale Difficult?

Two of the most important levers in selling a home - price and presentation - are also the ones sellers most often get wrong. Here is why, and how to avoid it.

May 2, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

Current Real Estate Strategies for Montreal Buyers and Sellers Today

Real-time tactical advice for navigating today's balanced-to-seller market conditions in Montreal. What buyers should prioritize and what sellers need to do to generate strong results.

May 1, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

How Do Listing and Marketing Services Actually Help Home Sellers?

Beyond putting a sign on your lawn, here is what comprehensive listing and marketing services actually do - and why the difference shows up in your final sale price.

May 1, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

Why Do Homeowners Struggle to Sell a House for Top Dollar?

Most sellers leave money on the table - not because of the market, but because of avoidable mistakes in pricing, presentation, and timing. Here is what actually holds sellers back.

May 1, 2026 • 7 min read Read Article
Featured
Market Report

Montreal Real Estate Q1 2026: What the Numbers Actually Mean

A data-focused breakdown of Q1 2026 Centris statistics across Montreal's key neighbourhoods. Median prices, days on market, and the trends that will define the rest of the year.

April 2, 2026 • 8 min read Read Article
Market Report

April 2026 Market Report: Rising Inventory Eases Pressure on Condo Buyers

Active listings climbed 14.9 percent year-over-year in April 2026, offering extensive choices in the condo segment. Here is what the inventory shift means for buyers, sellers, and pricing.

April 1, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Five Things Every First-Time Buyer in Montreal Must Know Before Making an Offer

Most first-time buyers in Montreal make the same five mistakes. Understanding these realities before you start your search will save you money, stress, and regret.

March 18, 2026 • 7 min read Read Article
Neighbourhoods

Plateau-Mont-Royal: Why Prices Keep Climbing Despite Everything

The Plateau has defied broader market corrections for a decade. Understanding the structural reasons behind this performance is essential for anyone considering buying or selling in this neighbourhood.

March 5, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

Spring Surge: Turnkey Single-Family Homes Lead the March Market

March 2026 transaction volumes rose 2 percent year-over-year, with single-family home median prices hitting $652,250. Here is the breakdown of what drove the spring market's opening.

March 1, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

Pricing Strategy in a Shifting Market: What Montreal Sellers Need to Know in 2026

The era of pricing high and waiting for an offer is over. Today's Montreal sellers need a precise, data-backed pricing strategy that accounts for neighbourhood dynamics, buyer psychology, and the current rate environment.

February 20, 2026 • 7 min read Read Article
Investing

The Montreal Plex Opportunity: Why Multi-Unit Properties Deserve Serious Attention

Montreal's duplex, triplex, and quadruplex market offers an investment structure that is genuinely difficult to replicate in other Canadian cities. Here is the honest assessment of the opportunity and the risks.

February 8, 2026 • 9 min read Read Article
Buyers

Stabilizing Mortgage Rates: What to Expect from Lenders in 2026

Mortgage rates stabilized around 4 percent in early 2026, providing a predictable environment for buyers and sellers. Here is what to expect from lenders and how to position your financing.

February 1, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Neighbourhoods

Outremont in 2026: The Market That Refuses to Soften

Outremont's real estate market operates by different rules. Low inventory, high-net-worth buyers, and limited new construction have created conditions that largely decouple the neighbourhood from broader market cycles.

January 25, 2026 • 5 min read Read Article
Buyers

Getting Pre-Approved in Quebec: The Complete Guide

Quebec's mortgage landscape has specific requirements and nuances that differ from other provinces. This guide walks you through the pre-approval process from documentation to strategy.

January 12, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Neighbourhoods

NDG Real Estate: The Undervalued Neighbourhood That Serious Buyers Are Watching

Notre-Dame-de-Grace has been overshadowed by trendier neighbourhoods for years. The buyers paying attention to its fundamentals are making a smart long-term call.

January 5, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

Navigating the Early 2026 Montreal Housing Market: A Soft Start

Cold weather and tight winter inventory led to a temporary pullback in January 2026 sales. Here is the honest read of the market's soft start and what it signals for the spring ahead.

January 1, 2026 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

The Montreal Condo Market in 2026: Oversupply, Opportunity, and What to Watch

Montreal's condo market tells a more complex story than headline numbers suggest. Understanding the divergence between new construction and resale, and between downtown and suburban locations, is essential for any condo buyer or seller.

December 15, 2025 • 7 min read Read Article
Buyers

How to Win a Multiple Offer Situation in Montreal Without Overpaying

Multiple offer situations in Montreal's competitive neighbourhoods are common for well-priced properties. The buyers who win are not always those who offer the most. Strategy, presentation, and terms matter as much as price.

December 2, 2025 • 7 min read Read Article
Market Report

2025 Year End Review: A Solid and Mature Montreal Real Estate Market

2025 ended with strong sales volumes, stabilized rates, and balanced growth across Montreal. Here is the complete retrospective on a year that confirmed the city's long-term market maturity.

December 1, 2025 • 6 min read Read Article
Neighbourhoods

Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie: The Neighbourhood That Became Unaffordable (And What It Means)

A decade ago, Rosemont was the affordable alternative to the Plateau. Today, its prices tell a different story. Understanding this trajectory helps predict which neighbourhood is next.

November 20, 2025 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

The Home Seller's Pre-Listing Checklist: What Montreal Brokers Actually Look For

Before your property goes on Centris, there is a preparation process that separates properties that generate maximum interest from those that underperform. This checklist covers every element.

November 8, 2025 • 8 min read Read Article
Investing

The Resurgence of Large Commercial and Multi-Residential Investments

REITs and private funds completed major property transactions across the Montreal metropolitan area in late 2025. Here is what the institutional activity signals about the long-term market outlook.

November 1, 2025 • 6 min read Read Article
Neighbourhoods

Pierrefonds-Roxboro and Pointe-Claire: The West Island Value Case

As inner-city Montreal prices have climbed, the West Island has attracted a new generation of buyers seeking space and value. Here is what the market looks like and who it makes sense for.

October 25, 2025 • 5 min read Read Article
Neighbourhoods

Montreal-Ouest: The Quiet Neighbourhood That Serious Buyers Keep Overlooking

Montreal-Ouest is one of the most consistently pleasant residential environments on the island and one of the most underappreciated. Here is why it deserves more attention.

October 12, 2025 • 5 min read Read Article
Market Report

Micro-Market Disparities: Why Your Montreal Neighbourhood Defies National Trends

Analysing why areas like Westmount or Brossard outperformed broader regional metrics in fall 2025. Here is the neighbourhood-level data that separates serious analysis from headline noise.

October 1, 2025 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

The Quebec Real Estate Transaction: A Step-by-Step Guide from Offer to Keys

Quebec's real estate transaction process is unique in Canada. Understanding each stage, the legal requirements, and the key decision points before you are in the middle of a transaction is essential.

September 28, 2025 • 8 min read Read Article
Market Report

Montreal's Luxury Real Estate Segment: How the Top of the Market Is Actually Performing

Properties above $2 million in Montreal operate in a different market with different dynamics. The data tells a more nuanced story than the overall market indicators suggest.

September 15, 2025 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

Fall 2025 Market Analysis: Single-Family Homes Reach New Peak Values

Scarcity of land kept detached single-family home prices at all-time highs in fall 2025. Here is the supply-demand analysis behind the peak and which neighbourhoods led.

September 1, 2025 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Understanding Condo Corporation Health: What to Check Before You Buy

In Quebec, buying a condo means buying into a co-ownership. The financial health of the co-ownership is often the most important factor in whether your investment holds value. Here is what to review.

August 30, 2025 • 7 min read Read Article
Neighbourhoods

Verdun and LaSalle: Montreal's Emerging Value Corridor

The stretch from Verdun along the St. Lawrence waterfront has undergone a genuine transformation over the past decade. Understanding where it stands today and where it is headed matters for buyers and investors alike.

August 15, 2025 • 5 min read Read Article
Buyers

Buying Real Estate in the Off-Season: Late Summer Negotiation Tactics

Smart buyers leveraged the August slowdown to secure properties below listing price in 2025. Here is the specific negotiation framework that works in Montreal's late-summer market.

August 1, 2025 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

Renovation ROI in Montreal: Which Improvements Actually Pay Off at Resale

Not every renovation adds more value than it costs. Understanding which improvements deliver measurable return in Montreal's specific market context will help you invest your pre-sale budget where it matters.

July 28, 2025 • 7 min read Read Article
Market Report

The Montreal Market in 2027: Scenarios, Indicators, and What to Watch

Forward-looking analysis of the factors that will shape Montreal's real estate market over the next 18 months. Data-based scenario planning for buyers, sellers, and investors.

July 10, 2025 • 6 min read Read Article
Investing

The Return of the Property Flip: Finding Value in Distressed Homes

Widening price gaps between renovated and unrenovated homes in summer 2025 revived local flipping plays. Here is the honest financial model for flipping in Montreal's current environment.

July 1, 2025 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

Rental Market Equilibrium: Are Montreal Rent Prices Finally Stabilizing?

An influx of new rental completions in mid-2025 slowed the aggressive rent hikes of recent years. Here is the analysis of Montreal's rental market equilibrium.

June 1, 2025 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

The Rebalancing Condo Market on the Island of Montreal

Condominium inventory reached healthier levels in spring 2025, shifting the segment toward balanced territory. Here is the data and what it means for condo buyers and sellers.

May 1, 2025 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

Spring 2025 Seller's Guide: Standing Out in a High-Inventory Market

Listings climbed significantly in spring 2025, offering buyers more options and requiring sellers to compete on presentation and price. Here is the updated seller's playbook.

April 1, 2025 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

Understanding Montreal's New Fast-Tracked Housing Project Approvals

Municipalities utilized updated provincial powers to accelerate new construction starts in spring 2025. Here is what faster approvals mean for supply, prices, and the long-term buyer opportunity.

March 1, 2025 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

The Divergence of Toronto and Montreal Real Estate Markets

Montreal held its ground with price gains in early 2025 while other Canadian cities faced corrections. Here is the structural analysis of why Montreal remains the most rational major market in Canada.

February 1, 2025 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Starting 2025: How the Lower Policy Rate Impacts Buyers

The central bank's aggressive easing created an accessible entry window for buyers in early 2025. Here is how the lower rate environment changed the calculation for every buyer in Montreal.

January 1, 2025 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

2024 Retrospective: The Year Montreal Real Estate Rebounded

2024 was a transformative year: the market shifted from high-rate anxiety back to active trading. Here is the complete retrospective on a year that restored confidence.

December 1, 2024 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

The Explosive Q4 Market: Why Montreal Sales Skyrocketed at Year End

Lower borrowing costs led to a massive 45 percent year-over-year surge in Q4 2024 sales volumes. Here is the complete picture of what drove the explosion.

November 1, 2024 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Navigating the New 30-Year Mortgage Amortization Rules

The federal government extended amortization limits for new builds in October 2024. Here is precisely who benefits, the conditions that apply, and how to take advantage.

October 1, 2024 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

Autumn Market Momentum: How Rate Cuts Are Fueling Montreal Sales

Further cuts by the central bank in fall 2024 accelerated market absorption rates across the province. Here is how Montreal responded and what buyers and sellers experienced on the ground.

September 1, 2024 • 6 min read Read Article
Investing

The Evolution of Neighborhoods: Where to Invest in Montreal Next

Spotlighting up-and-coming zones like Verdun, Hochelaga, and parts of the North Shore that were quietly outperforming in 2024. The investment geography of Montreal's next cycle.

August 1, 2024 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Why Turnkey Single-Family Homes Are Dominating the Montreal Market

Construction labor shortages in summer 2024 made buyers willing to pay a significant premium for fully renovated homes. Here is the data and what it means for pricing strategy.

July 1, 2024 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

The First Rate Cut: Bank of Canada Drops to 4.75 Percent

The Bank of Canada's first monetary easing step in June 2024 triggered an immediate wave of consumer confidence. Here is what the first cut meant for Montreal buyers and sellers.

June 1, 2024 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

Staging Secrets to Secure Top Dollar in a Competitive Market

Turnkey homes commanded premium prices in 2024 as buyers avoided high renovation costs. Here are the specific staging moves that translate into higher sale prices in Montreal.

May 1, 2024 • 6 min read Read Article
Investing

Buying a Multi-Unit Building in Montreal: Tips for Commercial Financing

Higher interest rates in 2024 required creative down payment structures for 5-plus unit properties. Here is the complete guide to commercial financing for Montreal multi-unit buildings.

April 1, 2024 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

The Return of the Spring Buyer: Activity Picks Up Across Greater Montreal

Open houses saw a notable surge in attendance in spring 2024 as pent-up demand returned. Here is the data on the market's reopening and which property types led the recovery.

March 1, 2024 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

Understanding Bill 31: New Rules for Lease Transfers and Housing in Quebec

The provincial government passed controversial housing legislation affecting landlords and tenants in early 2024. Here is what Bill 31 changed and the practical implications.

February 1, 2024 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

2024 Montreal Real Estate Outlook: Are Interest Rate Cuts on the Horizon?

Market sentiment improved in early 2024 as economists predicted inflation cooling and upcoming rate cuts. Here is the case for optimism and the risks that could delay the recovery.

January 1, 2024 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

2023 Year End Review: A Resilient Montreal Real Estate Market

Prices closed 2023 relatively flat, proving the underlying strength of local demand despite two years of rate pressure. Here is the complete retrospective.

December 1, 2023 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Demystifying the Role of the OACIQ in Protecting Quebec Consumers

An educational breakdown of licensing, ethics, and the protection funds available to buyers and sellers under Quebec's regulatory framework. What the OACIQ actually does for you.

November 1, 2023 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

The Hidden Costs of Purchasing a Property in Montreal

A complete breakdown of all the costs that come on top of your down payment when buying in Montreal: inspection, notary, welcome tax, adjustment fees, and moving costs.

October 1, 2023 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Preparing for Your Mortgage Renewal: Avoid the Payment Shock

Homeowners who locked in low rates in 2018 faced significantly higher payments at renewal in 2023. Here is the complete playbook for managing a mortgage renewal in a high-rate environment.

September 1, 2023 • 6 min read Read Article
Neighbourhoods

How the REM Opening Impacts Property Values Near New Stations

The official launch of the South Shore REM branch in 2023 shifted property values near new stations. Here is the research on transit-adjacent value premiums.

August 1, 2023 • 6 min read Read Article
Investing

The Longevity of Plex Investments: Why Cash Flow Still Matters in Montreal

Investors pivoted away from appreciation plays in 2023 and focused on rental income metrics. Here is the updated investment thesis for Montreal plexes when you cannot count on price growth.

July 1, 2023 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

The Bank of Canada Hikes Again: Managing Mortgage Anxiety

The overnight rate reached 4.75 percent in June 2023, adding further pressure to variable rate holders. Here is the framework for managing mortgage costs under stress.

June 1, 2023 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

Selling Your Property Independently vs Using a Broker in 2023

The complex legal risks and marketing challenges of private sales increased in the high-rate environment of 2023. Here is an honest comparison of what each path delivers.

May 1, 2023 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

The First Home Savings Account (FHSA): A Game Changer for Canadians

The federal government launched the tax-free FHSA in April 2023. Here is precisely how it works, the limits that apply, and how Montreal buyers can use it to accelerate their down payment.

April 1, 2023 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

Why Montreal Home Prices Are Not Dropping as Fast as Expected

Severe inventory shortages across Quebec protected home values from steep declines in spring 2023. Here is the structural analysis of why Montreal defied the national correction.

March 1, 2023 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

Maximizing the Value of Your Undivided Condo in Montreal

A deep dive into the refinancing and purchasing rules unique to undivided properties. Here is what owners need to know about marketing, pricing, and the buyer profile.

February 1, 2023 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Buying in Montreal in 2023: Finding Opportunities in a Slower Market

Sales volume hit multi-year lows in early 2023, but limited supply kept prices surprisingly stable. Here is how serious buyers could identify genuine opportunities.

January 1, 2023 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

2022 Retrospective: The Year the Real Estate Bubble Met Rising Rates

2022 was a year of dramatic transition from an overheated seller's market to a quiet winter correction. Here is the complete retrospective on what changed and why.

December 1, 2022 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Is It Time to Switch from a Variable to a Fixed-Rate Mortgage?

Prime rates hit levels not seen in over a decade in late 2022. Borrowers with variable-rate mortgages faced difficult decisions. Here is the analysis for making the right call.

November 1, 2022 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Evaluating Pre-Construction Condos in Montreal: Opportunities and Risks

High interest rates and supply chain bottlenecks impacted the new construction pipeline in fall 2022. Here is the complete framework for evaluating a pre-construction purchase.

October 1, 2022 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

The Rising Demand for Rental Properties Across Greater Montreal

Priced-out buyers moved to the rental market in fall 2022, driving vacancy rates down and rents up. Here is the data on Montreal's tightening rental market.

September 1, 2022 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

Navigating a Balanced Market: New Strategies for Montreal Home Sellers

Sellers had to adjust pricing expectations as properties began sitting longer in summer 2022. Here is the updated seller's playbook for a market where buyers had options again.

August 1, 2022 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

What Happens if You Bought a Home at the Peak of the Market?

Homeowners who purchased at peak prices faced paper losses as rates climbed. Here is the strategic framework for those holding long-term assets in a temporarily correcting market.

July 1, 2022 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Rising Rates and the Stress Test: Qualifying for a Mortgage in Mid-2022

The qualifying rate climbed toward 7 percent in mid-2022, significantly reducing buyer purchasing power. Here is a clear breakdown of the stress test mechanics.

June 1, 2022 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

The Shifting Balance: How Buyers Are Regaining Negotiation Power

Conditional offers, inspections, and price adjustments returned to standard contracts in spring 2022. Here is how the negotiating dynamic shifted.

May 1, 2022 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

Is the Montreal Housing Market Peak Finally Behind Us?

Higher borrowing costs caused a sudden drop in multiple-offer scenarios in April 2022. Here is an honest assessment of what the data showed for sellers and buyers.

April 1, 2022 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

The First Rate Hike: How the Bank of Canada Rate Increase Shifts the Market

The Bank of Canada increased its policy rate to 0.50 percent in March 2022, initiating an aggressive tightening cycle. Here is what that first hike signaled.

March 1, 2022 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

The Federal Foreign Buyer Ban: What It Means for Montreal Real Estate

Ottawa announced an upcoming two-year ban on non-Canadians purchasing residential property in February 2022. Here is the actual impact on Montreal.

February 1, 2022 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

New Year, New Highs: Starting 2022 under Extreme Seller's Market Conditions

Active listings dropped to a 20-year low in early 2022, forcing intense competition. Here is the state of the Montreal market entering what would become a pivotal year.

January 1, 2022 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

A Look Back at 2021: The Year of Historical Price Surges in Montreal

Median prices climbed more than 20 percent in some Montreal sectors during 2021. Here is the complete retrospective on a year that rewrote market expectations.

December 1, 2021 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Fixed vs Variable Mortgage Rates at the End of 2021: Which Is Best?

Economists in late 2021 began hinting at future rate hikes as inflation surfaced. The fixed-vs-variable debate suddenly became urgent. Here is the framework for making the right decision.

November 1, 2021 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

Luxury Real Estate in Montreal: What Drives the Million-Dollar Market?

Record sales of high-end homes in Mount Royal and Westmount characterized fall 2021. Here is the anatomy of the Montreal luxury market.

October 1, 2021 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

Fall 2021 Market Update: Is the Real Estate Frenzy Starting to Cool?

A slight drop in overall transaction volume in fall 2021 had some observers calling a market turn. Prices remained at record highs. Here is an honest reading of what the data showed.

September 1, 2021 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

Selling an Estate Property in Quebec: A Guide to Successions

Navigating the legal complexities of selling a home after the passing of a family member requires specific knowledge of Quebec succession law.

August 1, 2021 • 6 min read Read Article
Investing

Understanding the True Cost of Flipping a House in Montreal

Capital gains taxes and high renovation costs challenged short-term property flippers in 2021. Here is the complete financial model for flipping in Montreal.

July 1, 2021 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

The Return of the Urban Condo: Downtown Montreal Plots its Comeback

As vaccines rolled out in summer 2021, buyers started eyeing undervalued downtown condos again. Here is the opportunity thesis for urban condominiums.

June 1, 2021 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Blind Bidding in Quebec: How the System Works and Tips to Stand Out

Complaints about the transparency of the bidding process rose sharply in 2021. Here is how blind bidding works in Quebec and the legal strategies that help buyers compete.

May 1, 2021 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

Home Renovations in Montreal: Boosting Value Before You Sell

Construction material prices skyrocketed in spring 2021. Here is which renovations actually delivered ROI and which ones homeowners were wasting money on.

April 1, 2021 • 6 min read Read Article
Neighbourhoods

Rising Values on the West Island: Why Beaconsfield and Kirkland Are Booming

Suburban demand intensified in spring 2021. West Island values saw historic year-over-year gains. Here is what was driving the surge.

March 1, 2021 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

The Trap of Waiving Inspections: Protecting Yourself in a Hot Market

Buyers were increasingly waiving pre-purchase inspections to win bidding wars in early 2021. Here is the risk calculation and the smarter strategies that still protect you.

February 1, 2021 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

Winter Whiteout: Why the Montreal Housing Market Is Defying the Cold

Record-low inventory levels in January 2021 created unprecedented competition. Here is what was driving demand and how buyers could still find opportunities.

January 1, 2021 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

2020 Real Estate Retrospective: The Most Unpredictable Year on Record

Nobody predicted that 2020 would produce a real estate boom. Here is a complete summary of the unexpected surge that drove rural and suburban prices to new heights.

December 1, 2020 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

How the Mortgage Stress Test Rules Affect Your Buying Power

Regulatory adjustments in November 2020 changed qualification metrics for insured mortgages. Here is what changed and how to calculate your true buying power.

November 1, 2020 • 6 min read Read Article
Investing

Investing in Montreal Real Estate During Uncertain Times: Plex Resilience

As financial uncertainty mounted in fall 2020, triplexes and multi-generational homes became highly coveted for their built-in resilience. Here is the investment case.

October 1, 2020 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Single-Family Homes vs Condos: The Shifting Priorities of Montreal Buyers

Condominium inventory rose through fall 2020 as buyers showed a clear preference for detached houses with outdoor space. Here is what the data showed.

September 1, 2020 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Buying a Secondary Residence: The Booming Laurentians Market

Remote work flexibility in 2020 caused a massive spike in chalet and cottage purchases. Here is what buyers need to evaluate before purchasing recreational property.

August 1, 2020 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Bidding Wars in a Pandemic: The New Reality of Buying in Montreal

When the market reopened in summer 2020, explosive demand met critically low inventory. Properties sold in days with dozens of competing offers. Here is how to win in that environment.

July 1, 2020 • 6 min read Read Article
Neighbourhoods

The Great Suburban Migration: Why Buyers Are Heading to the North Shore

Lockdowns in spring 2020 sparked massive demand for bigger yards and home offices. Here is what drove the surge to Laval, Terrebonne, and the North Shore.

June 1, 2020 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

The Bank of Canada Rate Cuts: What They Mean for Your Mortgage

The central bank dropped its overnight rate to a historic low of 0.25 percent in May 2020. Here is precisely what that meant for buyers, sellers, and anyone with a variable-rate mortgage.

May 1, 2020 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Virtual Real Estate: How We Are Closing Deals Safely in Lockdown

April 2020 saw a complete transition to electronic signatures, video walkthroughs, and remote notary sessions. The playbook for buying or selling remotely.

April 1, 2020 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

How COVID-19 Is Changing Real Estate Operations in Quebec

The arrival of the pandemic in March 2020 forced OACIQ to suspend open houses and mandate safety protocols overnight. Here is how the industry adapted.

March 1, 2020 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

Downsizing Trends: Transitioning from a Suburban House to a Montreal Condo

Strong demand from empty nesters moving back to the city drove a specific micro-market in early 2020. Here is how to navigate the financial and emotional transition.

February 1, 2020 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

2020 Forecast: Will the Montreal Housing Market Keep Accelerating?

Predictions at the start of 2020 pointed to a highly competitive spring market with ultra-low inventory. What the data suggested - and what nobody could have predicted.

January 1, 2020 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

2019 Montreal Real Estate Year in Review: A Record-Breaking 12 Months

Montreal closed 2019 with historic sales volumes and steady price growth. Here is a complete picture of the year that set the stage for everything that followed.

December 1, 2019 • 6 min read Read Article
Sellers

Preparing Your Montreal Property for a Winter Sale: Staging Tips

Listing in winter requires a different approach than spring. The Montreal market in November 2019 proved that well-staged properties sell regardless of temperature outside.

November 1, 2019 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Why Griffintown Condos Remain a Top Choice for First-Time Buyers

High-density construction in the Sud-Ouest continued attracting young urban workers in fall 2019. Here is what first-time buyers need to evaluate before purchasing in Griffintown.

October 1, 2019 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Analyzing the Federal First-Time Home Buyer Incentive in Quebec

Ottawa launched its shared-equity mortgage program in fall 2019 to mixed reviews from Quebec brokers. Here is an honest assessment of whether it actually helps Montreal buyers.

September 1, 2019 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Buying a Heritage Home in Westmount or Outremont: Rules and Risks

Summer 2019 brought high volume in prestige properties subject to municipal conservation laws. What every buyer of a heritage property in Montreal needs to know before signing.

August 1, 2019 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

Foreign Buyer Trends in Montreal: Is Global Interest Reshaping the Market?

CMHC data from 2019 showed a steady rise in non-resident buyers targeting downtown luxury condos. Here is what that meant for local buyers and long-term market dynamics.

July 1, 2019 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Divided vs Undivided Co-ownership in Montreal: Essential Differences

A spike in condo transactions in mid-2019 highlighted widespread confusion about divided and undivided co-ownership. This explainer covers everything you need to know.

June 1, 2019 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Understanding the Montreal Welcome Tax: How to Calculate Your Costs

As Montreal property values climbed in 2019, the welcome tax became a significant closing cost surprise for unprepared buyers. Here is exactly how it works.

May 1, 2019 • 6 min read Read Article
Neighbourhoods

The Growing Appeal of South Shore Real Estate for Young Professionals

REM transit expansion discussions in 2019 drove a wave of interest from Montreal buyers eyeing Brossard and Longueuil. Here is why the South Shore started its ascent.

April 1, 2019 • 6 min read Read Article
Buyers

Navigating Bidding Wars in the Spring 2019 Montreal Market

The spring of 2019 marked the emergence of bidding wars in neighbourhoods like Notre-Dame-de-Grace. Here is the strategic framework that separated winning offers from losing ones.

March 1, 2019 • 6 min read Read Article
Investing

Why Plex Investments in the Plateau and Mile End Are Exploding

Surging demand for 2-to-5-unit properties in 2019 made the Plateau and Mile End the most competitive plex markets in Canada. Here is the data behind the frenzy.

February 1, 2019 • 6 min read Read Article
Market Report

Entering the 2019 Montreal Housing Market: What Buyers Need to Know

Montreal kicked off 2019 with shrinking inventory and strong demand. Here is what every buyer needed to understand entering one of the tightest markets in a generation.

January 1, 2019 • 6 min read Read Article