Home / Buying
Buying a home for your family
From your first visit to the day you get the keys, here's how buying works in Quebec and how I help at every step.
The process
Six steps to your new front door
1
Get pre-approved
Know your real budget and lock in a rate. I can introduce you to mortgage professionals who work with first-time and growing families.
2
Choose your neighbourhoods
We match schools, commute, parks and price to the towns and streets that fit your family best.
3
Visit homes
I shortlist homes, flag what to look for and share recent sales so you know what each one is really worth.
4
Make a promise to purchase
Your offer is written on the official Quebec form, usually with conditions for financing and inspection. I negotiate on your behalf.
5
Inspect and finance
A pre-purchase inspection and your final mortgage approval happen during the conditional period. We review every finding together.
6
Sign at the notary
In Quebec, your notary handles the deed of sale and the transfer of funds. Then the keys are yours.
First-time buyers
Your first home is closer than you think
About one in three of my clients is buying for the first time. These programs can help with the down payment and the monthly cost.
- First Home Savings Account (FHSA): save tax-free for your down payment.
- RRSP Home Buyers' Plan: borrow from your RRSP for your first home.
- 5% minimum down payment on the first $500,000 of the price, with mortgage default insurance.
- 30-year amortization may be available to first-time buyers and on new builds, lowering the monthly payment.
- Municipal programs: some towns offer welcome tax refunds or help for families. I'll check what applies where you're looking.
Budgeting
Costs to plan for beyond the price
These are typical ranges for a family home in Montreal's suburbs. I'll prepare a detailed estimate for any home you're serious about.
Welcome tax (land transfer duties)
About $7,100 on a $595,000 home at standard rates; billed by your town after closing
Notary fees
About $1,500 to $2,500, including the deed of sale and the mortgage deed
Pre-purchase inspection
About $500 to $900, depending on the size and age of the home
Tax adjustments
Your share of municipal and school taxes already paid by the seller
Moving and set-up
Movers, utilities, insurance and the first small repairs
Mortgage default insurance
Added to your mortgage when you put down less than 20%
Resale or new?
Two good paths to a family home
Resale homes
- Established streets, mature trees and bigger lots
- Move in quickly, often within 60 to 90 days
- Room to add value with updates over time
- An inspection is essential on older homes
New construction
- Modern layouts and energy efficiency
- Covered by Quebec's new-home warranty plan
- GST and QST apply, with possible partial rebates
- Longer timelines and staged deposits
What would your payment be?
Try prices, down payments and rates with Canadian rules and a welcome tax estimate.
Buying, selling or just curious?
Let's talk about your next home.
Tell me what you're looking for and I'll send honest numbers, the neighbourhoods worth a look and a plan that fits your family. No pressure, no obligation.