Value-Add Real Estate Investments in MontrealStone streets, universitiesand creative energy

Real Estate in Montreal, Canada

Montreal: A Culturally Vibrant, Affordably Priced Property Market

Montreal, the largest city in Quebec and the second-largest metropolitan area in Canada, offers a unique combination of affordability, European charm, and strong rental demand. Known for its dual-language culture, university population, and expanding tech scene, Montreal stands out as one of Canada’s most accessible and attractive cities for both lifestyle buyers and real estate investors. With lower average property prices than Toronto or Vancouver, Montreal represents a strategic entry point into the Canadian market — especially for those seeking long-term gains or multi-unit rental income.

Types of Property in Montreal

• Condos: Especially common in downtown districts like Ville-Marie, Griffintown, and Le Plateau
• Triplexes and duplexes: Traditional Montreal building format — ideal for rental income or owner-occupancy with rental offset
• Single-family homes: More prevalent in suburban districts like West Island, Ahuntsic-Cartierville, and Côte-des-Neiges
• New-builds: Mid-rise and high-rise developments along the Lachine Canal, Verdun, and in downtown neighborhoods
• Student-focused housing: Close to McGill, Concordia, and UQAM universities

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Montreal?

As of 2023, the federal government of Canada has implemented a temporary ban on foreign nationals purchasing most residential properties in urban centers, including Montreal. However, exemptions exist for:

• International students meeting specific criteria
• Temporary workers with legal permits
• Refugees and permanent residents
• Purchases of multi-unit residential buildings (4+ units)

Foreign investors are also subject to the Non-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST) in other provinces, but Quebec currently does not impose a comparable surcharge. Nonetheless, foreign buyers must comply with all federal rules and register with proper declarations. VelesClub Int. offers legal structuring solutions and access to qualified projects exempt from restrictions.

Property Prices in Montreal (2025)

• 1-bedroom condo (central): CAD 350,000–500,000
• 2-bedroom condo: CAD 450,000–700,000
• Triplex: CAD 700,000–1.2M (depending on area and condition)
• Single-family detached home: CAD 700,000–1.5M
• Luxury condo (Old Montreal): CAD 900,000–1.8M

Compared to Toronto or Vancouver, Montreal's pricing offers value, especially in the multi-unit space. Price growth has been steady, with downtown areas seeing consistent demand even post-COVID.

Top Neighborhoods for Investment

• Griffintown: Revitalized urban district with condos and high rental demand
• Plateau Mont-Royal: Historic and cultural heart of the city, very popular with students and expats
• Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie: Gentrifying area with strong family and rental appeal
• Verdun: One of the fastest-growing districts in terms of price and interest
• Côte-des-Neiges: Ideal for student housing and long-term rentals

Rental Market and Yields

• 1-bedroom apartment (downtown): CAD 1,400–1,800/month
• 2-bedroom condo: CAD 1,800–2,500/month
• Triplex unit: CAD 1,200–1,600 per unit/month
• Gross rental yields: 4.5%–7% depending on location and format

Montreal has a strong renter population — especially students, immigrants, and young professionals. Unlike Ontario and British Columbia, Quebec has a unique rental control framework, so long-term rental income requires strategic management. However, legal short-term rentals (in permitted zones) can offer higher returns.

Infrastructure and Growth

• REM Light Rail: A massive $7B transit project to connect suburbs with downtown — expected to boost real estate prices near new stations
• Downtown redevelopment: Investments in pedestrian areas, tech incubators, and tourism assets
• University expansion: McGill’s New Vic project and increased student inflows drive demand for housing

Montreal’s infrastructure upgrades, bilingual culture, and diverse economy continue to attract both residents and foreign companies, ensuring long-term growth in both value and demand.

Investment Scenarios

1. Duplex with Owner-Occupancy

Purchase a duplex in Rosemont for CAD 850,000. Live in one unit and rent the other for CAD 1,400/month. Offset mortgage while retaining capital appreciation. Renovation potential adds resale value.

2. Triplex Near McGill

Acquire a legal triplex in Plateau Mont-Royal for CAD 1.1M. Rent to students at CAD 1,600 per unit. Total income: CAD 4,800/month. Strong yield and zero vacancy. Ideal for stable long-term cash flow.

3. Pre-Construction Condo in Griffintown

Buy off-plan for CAD 475,000. Completion in 2026. Expected appreciation to CAD 550,000+ due to area redevelopment. Rent short-term (if allowed) or lease for CAD 2,000/month. Capital gain + rental income model.

4. REM Transit Zone Development

Land purchase or existing multifamily building near a future REM station. Values expected to rise with connectivity. VelesClub Int. supports zoning analysis and financing partners for value-add strategies.

Transaction Steps and Taxes

• Welcome Tax (Transfer Tax): Tiered provincial tax from 0.5% to 2.5%
• Legal fees: CAD 1,500–2,500 including notary
• Mortgage setup: Available for residents and some non-residents
• Ongoing property tax: Based on municipal valuation (~CAD 3,000–6,000/year)

Why Invest in Montreal?

• Affordable prices vs. other major cities
• Stable rental demand and immigration inflow
• Dynamic job sectors: AI, aerospace, education
• Bilingual, globalized population
• Excellent food, culture, and lifestyle factors

Challenges to Note

• Foreign ownership restrictions (temporary, but significant)
• Strict zoning for short-term rentals
• Tenant-friendly laws — require experienced property management

Why VelesClub Int.

VelesClub Int. helps you navigate Quebec’s legal framework, language nuances, and investment structures. From sourcing cash-flowing triplexes to structuring compliant acquisitions for overseas investors, our network ensures access to curated, vetted, and high-performing real estate in Montreal.

Conclusion

Montreal offers a rare mix of affordability, diversity, and sophistication in a North American context. While foreign buyers must currently tread carefully, long-term investors willing to plan strategically will find high-quality opportunities. With the right guidance, Montreal delivers a secure, profitable, and culturally enriching real estate experience — and VelesClub Int. is here to lead the way.