Expect demand to surge when international travel opens up again.
Author of the article:
Briana Doyle • Special to the Montreal Gazette
Sales of luxury homes in Montreal increased 134 per cent year-over-year from January to June. But homes on the market are getting fewer visits, according to the annual Engel & Völkers Mid-Year Canadian Luxury Real Estate Market Report.Photo by Pierre Obendrauf /Montreal Gazette files
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It looks like the real estate buying frenzy may finally be starting to calm down a little. While homes in Montreal are still selling much more quickly than they used to in pre-COVID days — in June more than twice as fast, on average, compared to last year — real estate brokers, especially those outside of the city, say they are not seeing the same intensity of competition among buyers as they did a few months ago. The pace of growth in sales and prices also seems to be slowing down.
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It’s not just Montreal. The annual Engel & Völkers Mid-Year Canadian Luxury Real Estate Market Report, released late last month, described a “wave of market normalization” in major cities across the country following an unprecedented growth in sales over $1 million in the first half of the year.
Sales of luxury homes in Montreal increased 134 per cent year-over-year from January to June. Yet in May and June, new listings in Montreal were getting fewer visits and offers than earlier in the year, the report noted. While bidding wars were still fairly common, the competition was more likely to be among just a few buyers, not dozens.
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According to real estate broker Patrice Groleau of Engel & Völkers Montreal, competition for properties in the outer suburbs appears to be decreasing as more homes come on the market, but he said demand for high-end properties in the city remains strong because there is so little supply.
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Patrice Groleau, owner of real-estate agency McGill Immobilier.Photo by Pierre Obendrauf /Montreal Gazette files
“It’s going to be a soft landing for the entry-level real estate,” Groleau said. “The luxury segment still has a lot of momentum going on.”
While the pandemic spurred many Montrealers to make drastic lifestyle changes such as moving from the city to a bigger home in the country or buying a second home in cottage country, with vaccination rates rising and reopening well underway, Groleau said it’s becoming trendy again to buy a place in the city.
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“People took permanent decisions in a temporary situation,” Groleau said. “It was easier to go out (of the city) but coming back in is going to be harder.”
In the Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers’ most recent quarterly market update, analysts pointed to the same trend and noted that the price acceleration seen in the past year in Montreal is not sustainable long-term.
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Director of Market Analysis Charles Brant said that affordability issues due to mortgage rate increases, market-calming measures implemented by governments, and changing spending habits as the COVID crisis eases are likely to result in a decline in sales levels by the end of the year.
“Even though records were still being set in the second quarter of 2021, the pace of sales growth has slowed,” Brant said.
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The reprieve may only be temporary, however, thanks to pent-up demand for Canadian real estate from international buyers shut out of the market due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Because international borders have been closed since the beginning of the pandemic, the Engel & Völkers report predicts that when international travel resumes, there will be a new surge in interest from foreign buyers looking at Canada’s metropolitan areas — particularly in Vancouver and Montreal. With a relatively low supply of luxury properties available in both cities, a new wave of international buyers could “significantly strain the market,” the brokerage’s report noted.
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It is Montreal that is pegged to be Canada’s next investor favourite. Prices are still much lower than Vancouver and Toronto, and the city is also on the cusp of a boom in development, the report notes, with an estimated 60,000 new construction projects expected to enter the market over the next three years.
While some international buyers are purchasing vacation homes or properties they can rent out, most in Montreal are buying a home to live in, whether for themselves or their adult children, Groleau said. Even if they do not intend to remain in Canada permanently, because Canadian homeowners do not pay capital gains tax when they sell their primary residence, real estate is a practical investment for those who can afford it.
“If you have money and you’ve come here, you’re comparing the price tag to London, to Paris, and so on. (Montreal) is still way more affordable than most major cities around the world,” Groleau said.
MONTREAL – Two Quebec real estate brokers are facing fines and years-long suspensions for submitting bogus offers on homes to drive up prices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christine Girouard has been suspended for 14 years and her business partner, Jonathan Dauphinais-Fortin, has been suspended for nine years after Quebec’s authority of real estate brokerage found they used fake bids to get buyers to raise their offers.
Girouard is a well-known broker who previously starred on a Quebec reality show that follows top real estate agents in the province.
She is facing a fine of $50,000, while Dauphinais-Fortin has been fined $10,000.
The two brokers were suspended in May 2023 after La Presse published an article about their practices.
One buyer ended up paying $40,000 more than his initial offer in 2022 after Girouard and Dauphinais-Fortin concocted a second bid on the house he wanted to buy.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 11, 2024.
MONTREAL – The Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers says Montreal-area home sales rose 9.3 per cent in August compared with the same month last year, with levels slightly higher than the historical average for this time of year.
The association says home sales in the region totalled 2,991 for the month, up from 2,737 in August 2023.
The median price for all housing types was up year-over-year, led by a six per cent increase for the price of a plex at $763,000 last month.
The median price for a single-family home rose 5.2 per cent to $590,000 and the median price for a condominium rose 4.4 per cent to $407,100.
QPAREB market analysis director Charles Brant says the strength of the Montreal resale market contrasts with declines in many other Canadian cities struggling with higher levels of household debt, lower savings and diminishing purchasing power.
Active listings for August jumped 18 per cent compared with a year earlier to 17,200, while new listings rose 1.7 per cent to 4,840.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 6, 2024.
In the quest to find cities where renters can enjoy the best of all worlds, a recent study analyzed 24 metrics across three key categories—Housing & Economy, Quality of Life, and Community. The study ranked the 100 largest cities in Canada to determine which ones offer the most to their renters.
Here are the top 10 cities that emerged as the best for renters in 2024:
St. John’s, NL
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, stand out as the top city for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming community, St. John’s offers an exceptional quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing, a robust economy, and low unemployment rates, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching living experience. Its rich history, picturesque harbour, and dynamic arts scene further enhance its appeal, ensuring that renters can enjoy both comfort and excitement in this charming coastal city.
Sherbrooke, QC
Sherbrooke, Quebec, emerges as a leading city for renters in Canada for 2024, offering a blend of affordability and quality of life. Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Townships, Sherbrooke is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and strong community spirit. The city provides affordable rental options, low living costs, and a thriving local economy, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both comfort and economic stability. With its rich history, numerous parks, and dynamic arts and education sectors, Sherbrooke presents an inviting environment for renters looking for a well-rounded lifestyle.
Québec City, QC
Québec City, the capital of Quebec, stands out as a premier destination for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, this city offers an exceptional quality of life. Renters benefit from affordable housing, excellent public services, and a robust economy. The city’s charming streets, historic sites, and diverse culinary scene provide a unique living experience. With top-notch education institutions, numerous parks, and a strong sense of community, Québec City is an ideal choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.
Trois-Rivières, QC
Trois-Rivières, nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, emerges as a top choice for renters in Canada. This historic city, known for its picturesque riverside views and rich cultural scene, offers an appealing blend of affordability and quality of life. Renters in Trois-Rivières enjoy reasonable housing costs, a low unemployment rate, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The city’s well-preserved historic sites, bustling arts community, and excellent educational institutions make it an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Saguenay, QC
Saguenay, located in the stunning Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, is a prime destination for renters seeking affordable living amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its picturesque fjords and vibrant cultural scene, Saguenay offers residents a high quality of life with lower housing costs compared to major urban centers. The city boasts a strong sense of community, excellent recreational opportunities, and a growing economy. For those looking to combine affordability with a rich cultural and natural environment, Saguenay stands out as an ideal choice.
Granby, QC
Granby, nestled in the heart of Quebec’s Eastern Townships, offers renters a delightful blend of small-town charm and ample opportunities. Known for its beautiful parks, vibrant cultural scene, and family-friendly environment, Granby provides an exceptional quality of life. The city’s affordable housing market and strong sense of community make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet dynamic place to live. With its renowned zoo, bustling downtown, and numerous outdoor activities, Granby is a hidden gem that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles.
Fredericton, NB
Fredericton, the capital city of New Brunswick, offers renters a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful riverfront, and welcoming community, Fredericton provides an excellent quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing options, scenic parks, and a strong educational presence with institutions like the University of New Brunswick. Its rich cultural heritage, coupled with a thriving local economy, makes Fredericton an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Saint John, NB
Saint John, New Brunswick’s largest city, is a coastal gem known for its stunning waterfront and rich heritage. Nestled on the Bay of Fundy, it offers renters an affordable cost of living with a unique blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences. The city’s vibrant uptown area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while its scenic parks and outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for recreation. Saint John’s strong sense of community and economic growth make it an inviting place for those looking to enjoy both urban and natural beauty.
Saint-Hyacinthe, QC
Saint-Hyacinthe, located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, is a vibrant city known for its strong agricultural roots and innovative spirit. Often referred to as the “Agricultural Technopolis,” it is home to numerous research centers and educational institutions. Renters in Saint-Hyacinthe benefit from a high quality of life with access to excellent local amenities, including parks, cultural events, and a thriving local food scene. The city’s affordable housing and close-knit community atmosphere make it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Lévis, QC
Lévis, located on the southern shore of the St. Lawrence River across from Quebec City, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Known for its picturesque views and well-preserved heritage sites, Lévis is a city where history meets contemporary living. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent public services, green spaces, and cultural activities. The city’s affordable housing options and strong sense of community make it a desirable place for renters looking for both tranquility and easy access to urban amenities.
This category looked at factors such as average rent, housing costs, rental availability, and unemployment rates. Québec stood out with 10 cities ranking at the top, demonstrating strong economic stability and affordable housing options, which are critical for renters looking for cost-effective living conditions.
Québec again led the pack in this category, with five cities in the top 10. Ontario followed closely with three cities. British Columbia excelled in walkability, with four cities achieving the highest walk scores, while Caledon topped the list for its extensive green spaces. These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of life, making these cities attractive for renters.
Victoria, BC, emerged as the leader in this category due to its rich array of restaurants, museums, and educational institutions, offering a vibrant community life. St. John’s, NL, and Vancouver, BC, also ranked highly. Québec City, QC, and Lévis, QC, scored the highest in life satisfaction, reflecting a strong sense of community and well-being. Additionally, Saskatoon, SK, and Oshawa, ON, were noted for having residents with lower stress levels.
For a comprehensive view of the rankings and detailed interactive visuals, you can visit the full study by Point2Homes.
While no city can provide a perfect living experience for every renter, the cities highlighted in this study come remarkably close by excelling in key areas such as housing affordability, quality of life, and community engagement. These findings offer valuable insights for renters seeking the best places to live in Canada in 2024.
