Frequently Asked Questions
Question About Selling
1. Certificate of Location
A Certificate of Location is a mandatory document for selling a property in Quebec. You’ll need to produce a new one if your certificate is:
2. Pre-Sale Inspection (Optional)
A pre-sale inspection is not mandatory but is recommended and considered to be a strategic move.
It identifies potential issues in advance, giving you time to address them before listing your property. This can boost buyers’ confidence.
Reduce the likelihood of price negotiations or deal cancellations due to inspection findings.
Cost: Typically ranges from $400 to $700, depending on the size and complexity of the property.
– Staging: Professional staging creates a polished look and helps buyers visualize the property as their future home. Costs may include furniture rentals and decorative enhancements.
Cost: Repairs and staging expenses can range from $500 to $5,000+, depending on your home’s condition and needs.
- Utilities (water, electricity, gas).
- Condo fees (for condo properties).
- Heating oil/propane (remaining fuel adjustments).
- Rent or leases (if applicable).
- Prepaid services (e.g., snow removal, alarm systems).
Moving costs vary depending on several factors, such as the size of your move, the distance between locations, the type of service you choose, and the season. Here’s a breakdown of potential moving costs to help you plan:
Hourly Rates for Movers
- 1-bedroom apartment: $400–$700 (4–6 hours with two movers).
- 2-bedroom apartment: $600–$1,000 (6–8 hours with 2–3 movers).
- 3-bedroom house: $1,000–$1,800 (8–10 hours with 3–4 movers).
Rates Per Hour: $100–$150/hour: Includes 2–3 movers and a truck.
The time it takes to sell a home depends on:
- Market Conditions: In a seller’s market, homes can sell in days or a couple of weeks; in a buyer’s market, it may take months.
- Location and Price: Properly priced homes in desirable areas sell faster.
- Preparation: Homes that are well-staged and marketed often attract offers sooner.
Staging helps buyers visualize your property as their future home. It can:
- Increase Sale Price: Staged homes often sell for more.
- Attract Buyers Faster: Professional photos of staged homes stand out online. If staging isn’t feasible, focus on decluttering, deep cleaning, and neutralizing décor.
Yes, you can sell your home while still carrying a mortgage. At closing, the proceeds from the sale will pay off the remaining mortgage balance. However:
- Check if your mortgage has prepayment penalties.
- Ensure the sale price covers your mortgage and associated fees.
Not all repairs are necessary, but addressing visible issues (e.g., leaky faucets, cracked tiles) can:
- Increase Appeal: Buyers appreciate move-in-ready homes.
- Prevent Price Reductions: Minor issues can deter buyers or lower offers.
A home inspection is typically conducted by the buyer. The inspector examines the property’s structure, roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. Sellers should:
- Address obvious issues beforehand.
- Provide access to all areas, including the attic and basement.
- Declutter: Remove personal items and excess furniture.
- Clean Thoroughly: Focus on kitchens, bathrooms, and floors.
- Maximize Light: Open curtains and turn on lights.
- Neutralize Scents: Avoid strong fragrances or odors.
While spring and early summer are traditionally active periods, homes sell year-round. Factors to consider:
- Seasonal Appeal: Gardens look better in spring, while cozy features stand out in winter.
- Active vs. Competitive: High seasons are obviously more active but also more competitive.
- Market Trends: Local demand may vary seasonally.
If the property is not your primary residence (e.g., a rental or investment property), you may be subject to capital gains tax on the profit from the sale.
Effective June 25th, 2024, capital gains tax in Canada for individuals will realize 50% of the value of any capital gains as taxable income for amounts up to $250,000. Any amount above $250,000 will realize capital gains of ⅔ or 66.67% as taxable income.
Example: You sold your vacation property that you originally purchased for $200,000. The sale was completed after June 25th, 2024, for $600,000. The new inclusion rate will apply to the portion of capital gains over $250,000. Assume you had $5,000 in legal and other expenses to include in the adjusted cost base and had an additional $10,000 in expenses incurred when you sold the property. You can calculate the capital gains as follows:
Since the full capital gain is not taxable, you can calculate the inclusion rate, the amount you will need to claim as income at tax time as follows:
$125,000 + $90,000 = $215,000
You must add $215,000 to your income at tax time to be taxed at your marginal tax rate.
To calculate your capital gain taxes you can use our Capital Gain Calculator.
Question About Buying
No. In most cases, buyers do not pay a broker’s commission. The seller typically covers the commission fees for both their agent and the buyer’s agent as part of the sale. If, in rare cases, the seller offers zero or low commission, the buyer’s broker might be entitled to compensation by the buyer. All these details are clearly defined in your brokerage contract, and your broker should explain them to you beforehand.
Your budget depends on:
- Down Payment: Minimum 5% for homes under $500,000 in Canada.
- Mortgage Approval: Based on your income, debt, and credit score.
- Additional Costs: Include property taxes, insurance, and closing costs.
Use a mortgage calculator to estimate monthly payments.
A pre-approval:
- Determines Your Budget: Based on your financial situation.
- Strengthens Offers: Sellers see pre-approved buyers as serious.
- Locks In Rates: Often for 90–120 days, protecting you from rate increases.
Consider:
- Amenities: Proximity to schools, parks, shopping, and public transport.
- Community: General population mix, local activities, seasonalities.
- Rules: Some municipalities have special by-laws. For example, winter car shelters are not allowed in Dollard-des-Ormeaux.
- Future Growth: Areas with planned infrastructure improvements may increase in value (REM for example).
Pay attention to:
- Structural Integrity: Cracks in walls, uneven floors.
- Plumbing and Electrical: Test taps and light switches.
- Natural Light: Orientation and window size.
- Neighborhood Noise: Visit at different times to gauge traffic or activity.
Closing costs include:
- Natarial Fees: $1,000–$2,000.
- Land Transfer Tax: Varies by location and sale price: you can use our Property Transfer Tax Calculator.
- Home Inspection: Typically $400–$800.
- Adjustments: For prepaid utilities or property taxes. Budget 1.5%–4% of the purchase price.
Hourly Rates for Movers
- 1-bedroom apartment: $400–$700 (4–6 hours with 2 movers).
- 2-bedroom apartment: $600–$1,000 (6–8 hours with 2–3 movers).
- 3-bedroom house: $1,000–$1,800 (8–10 hours with 3–4 movers).
Rates Per Hour: $100–$150/hour: Includes 2–3 movers and a truck.
Question About Renting
The timeline depends on the property, location, and market conditions. On average, our marketing strategies help find tenants within 30 days or less.
We verify credit history, rental history, income, and references to ensure tenants are responsible and reliable.
Not unless you want to. We can manage inquiries, lease negotiations, and ongoing tenant communication as part of our property management services.
We use market data, comparable properties, and our expertise to recommend a competitive rental price that maximizes income while attracting tenants.
Rental prices vary based on location, size, and amenities. As of recent data, a one-bedroom apartment averages around $1,400/month, while larger units or properties in prime locations can go much higher.
Furnishing is optional. Furnished properties often attract short-term renters, while unfurnished ones are more popular for long-term leases.
As a landlord, you are responsible for maintaining the property and addressing major repairs. Tenants are typically responsible for minor upkeep, such as changing lightbulbs.
Yes, in Quebec, a lease agreement is mandatory and must follow the standard lease format provided by the Régie du logement (Rental Board).
In Quebec, landlords cannot request a security deposit. However, tenants are responsible for paying the first month’s rent upon signing the lease.
You can file a complaint with the Tribunal administratif du logement (formerly Régie du logement) to recover unpaid rent or terminate the lease.
This depends on your preference. Many landlords charge tenants separately for utilities like electricity, heating, and internet.
Yes, but rent increases must follow guidelines set by the Tribunal administratif du logement and must be communicated in writing.
In Quebec, tenants have the right to sublet with the landlord’s approval. You can assess and approve the new tenant before allowing the sublease.
Yes, landlord insurance protects your property from damages, liability, and potential loss of rental income.
It’s your choice. However, properties that allow pets tend to attract more tenants. Ensure your lease specifies pet policies.
Establish a clear communication process for tenants to report issues. Promptly addressing requests helps maintain tenant satisfaction.
Yes, but you must provide tenants with 24 hours’ notice before entering the property for inspections or repairs.
In Quebec, landlords can repossess the property for personal use or family use, but they must follow specific notice periods and regulations.
Your lease should cover rent, utilities, policies on pets, maintenance responsibilities, and any other important terms specific to your property.
