WHY BUY PROPERTY IN MONTREAL WITH GIUSEPPE CARTOLANO?
- Best strategy implementation when writing a promise to purchase.
- Strong negotiator whose mission is to get the best for his clients.
- Available 7 days a week, year-round.
- Knowledge of procedures to follow and legal documents to be completed, while having the necessary expertise in drafting appropriate clauses to protect you in your purchase.
- Access to a vast network of qualified professionals which can be instrumental in the successful completion of your real estate transaction.
Thinking of buying a home in Montreal? Read our step-by-step guide to buying, from pre-approval to the signing at the notary.
HOW TO BUY A HOME IN MONTREAL: STEP BY STEP
- Set your budget and get pre-approved. Before the first visit, know how much you can borrow — and be able to prove it. A mortgage pre-approval confirms your borrowing capacity based on your income, debts and down payment, and strengthens your promise to purchase. Also plan for costs beyond the price: the welcome tax (transfer duties), notary fees, the inspection and, for a plex, the specifics of existing leases.
- Target your search. Start with the neighbourhoods that fit your real life — transit, work, schools, parks — then refine by type, size and price. Montreal prices vary widely between boroughs, so a clear target keeps you focused and ready to move quickly. Our local knowledge of each neighbourhood helps you compare realistically.
- Receive listings and visit. Every home that matches your search is sent to you automatically, as soon as it is published on Centris. We visit the properties you select, help you evaluate each one, and filter out the noise.
- The promise to purchase. When you find the right home, we prepare a well-documented promise to purchase at a realistic price: price, conditions (inspection and financing), inclusions and exclusions, and the date of occupancy. We present and negotiate the offer with the seller’s broker and keep you informed at every step.
- Inspection and financing. After acceptance, you still need to finalize your mortgage and go through with the inspection. Financing is handled by your institution or mortgage broker; the inspection helps identify any serious problems before you complete the purchase.
- Certificate of location and verifications. The notary verifies titles and other documents related to the property. A recent certificate of location is usually required and, if it is unavailable, you will be told how to obtain one.
- At the notary, and the keys. You sign the deed of sale, your notary registers it, and the property becomes yours. Make sure you have obtained home insurance in the meantime.
BUYING WITH GROUPE GIUSEPPE CARTOLANO
- Fast access to new listings: receive new listings as soon as they are published on Centris, via newlist.properties.
- An experienced team of nine real estate brokers serving Montreal and Laval.
- Dual expertise: residential properties and income properties (plexes).
- Guidance and follow-up in French and English.
- Trusted referrals: notary, building inspector, mortgage broker, lawyer, and more.
Our team includes Giuseppe Cartolano, Rania El Massoudi, Astou Diallo, Sahar Rezgui, Victor Guerrero, Olivia Touliatos, Roberto Renzetti, Patrick Ouellet and Shirin Nasseri.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS — BUYING
What is the welcome tax?
The welcome tax (land transfer tax) is calculated on the value of the property and varies by municipality. It comes as a surprise to many buyers, so it is best to plan for it before making an offer.
Do I really need a mortgage pre-approval?
Yes, if you want to buy with confidence. Without one, an otherwise exciting visit can turn into a missed opportunity — because you will not know how much you can afford, and sellers will be less convinced.
What is a certificate of location?
It is a document that shows the property and its location, including boundaries, buildings, rights of way and any encroachments. The notary will ask you for it in order to complete the sale, so it is important to know whether the seller has an up-to-date copy.
Why does the purchase take place at a notary?
In Quebec, the deed of sale must be signed before a notary. The notary verifies titles and other documents, verifies your identity and the identity of the seller, collects the necessary documents, and acts as a neutral intermediary between you and the seller.
Is buying a plex and living in it a good idea?
Very often, yes — with an owner-occupied plex, part of your mortgage is paid by the tenants and it is a good long-term investment in Montreal, but it requires an appropriate analysis to avoid surprises.
Thinking of buying a plex or an investment property in Montreal? Our team can help you evaluate rental income, expenses, and long-term potential. Start your search today: receive new listings as soon as they are published by visiting newlist.properties, or call us at 514-360-6666. Our office is at 6401 Jean-Talon E, Saint-Léonard, QC H1S 3E7.
Also see our guide to investing in a plex in Montreal.
