Winter in Montreal can be long and very cold. As a real estate broker, I spend a lot of time driving through our beautiful snowy neighborhoods. Over the years, I have found a few special places that feel like a warm hug.

When the wind is blowing, these are the three “secret” spots I visit to warm up. They aren’t the big tourist traps, they are the cozy gems that make living in Montreal so special.

1. Pasta Pooks (Little Italy / Mile Ex)

This tiny spot is tucked away right where Little Italy meets Mile Ex. It feels like a secret club for people who love fresh food.

• Why it’s a winner: They make their own pasta by hand every single day.
• The Vibe: It is small, warm, and looks out onto a quiet street. It’s perfect for a quiet date.
• What to order: Try any of their seasonal stuffed pastas. They are simple, hot, and delicious.

2. Hélicoptère (Hochelaga)

This is a true “hidden gem.” It is located on a quiet corner in Hochelaga and doesn’t have a big, flashy sign, but the food is world-class.

• Why it’s a winner: The menu changes with the seasons, so the food always matches the weather.
• The Vibe: It’s bright yet cozy, with lots of wood and friendly staff who make you feel like a regular on your first visit.
• What to order: Their small sharing plates are great, but look for anything with their house-made bread and local Quebec cheeses.

3. KazaMaza (Mile End)

This Middle Eastern gem on Avenue du Parc is easy to miss if you are walking too fast, but it is one of the coziest rooms in the city.

• Why it’s a winner: The food is meant for sharing, which makes it feel very social and warm.
• The Vibe: It has soft lighting, wooden tables, and a very “homey” feel.
• What to order: The Kibbeh Labniyé. These are warm meat dumplings served in a hot, creamy yogurt sauce. It is pure comfort in a bowl.

Montreal is a city of hidden treasures, and these spots are part of what makes our neighborhoods feel like home. I hope you get a chance to visit one of them this week!

Stay warm,

Groupe Baronello

The post ❄️ 3 Warm & Hidden Food Gems in Montreal appeared first on Groupe Baronello.

Here are three easy things you can do right now:

1. The Garden Hose Rule

This is the most important step! If you still have a garden hose attached to the outside of your house, go pull it off right now. If water stays in the hose, it will freeze and push ice back into the house, breaking the pipe inside your wall.

• Pro Tip: Find the small valve inside your basement that sends water outside. Turn it off and then open the outside faucet to let any leftover water drip out.

2. Help the Warm Air Move

Pipes like to stay warm, just like we do. Often, pipes are hidden inside kitchen or bathroom cabinets. Because the cabinet doors are closed, the warm air from your heater can’t reach them. On very cold nights, leave your cabinet doors open. This lets the heat from your house keep those pipes cozy.

3. Add a “Winter Coat” for Your Pipes

Go into your basement or garage and look for pipes that are near cold walls. You can buy “foam sleeves” at any hardware store (like Canadian Tire or Home Depot). They look like pool noodles with a slit down the side. You just slide them over the pipes to give them an extra layer of protection.

Important Note for Condo Owners

If you live in a condo, remember that Law 16 in Quebec now means your building must keep a very strict “Maintenance Logbook.” This includes checking the main water systems. If you see a leak in a common area, tell your condo board right away so it can be added to the official records!

Stay warm and keep those pipes dry!

The post Protecting Your Pipes: Essential Winterization for the Montreal Freeze appeared first on Groupe Baronello.

So, what is actually happening? Let’s look at why Montreal (and Quebec) is playing by its own set of rules in 2026.

The Numbers: Montreal vs. The Rest of Canada

Experts are calling 2026 a “reset year” for most of the country. In cities like Toronto and Vancouver, prices are expected to drop by about 3% to 4%.

However, Montreal is different. Forecasters expect home prices here to rise by about 5% this year. Some parts of Quebec, like Quebec City, might even see jumps as high as 12%!

Why is Quebec Different?

There are three big reasons why our market isn’t slowing down like the others:

1. Not Enough Homes: We simply don’t have enough houses for sale. While other provinces have more listings, Quebec still has a “shortage.” When many people want to buy but few people want to sell, prices stay high.
2. Affordability: Even though prices have gone up, Montreal is still much cheaper than Toronto. This makes our city a “hot spot” for young families and investors who find better value here.
3. The “Plex” Power: In Montreal, we love our duplexes and triplexes. These are very popular right now because they help owners pay their mortgage with rental income.

What This Means for You

• If you are selling: You are still in a “Seller’s Market” for houses and plexes. Buyers are active, and well-priced homes are selling in about 27 to 40 days.
• If you are buying: It is more competitive than in other provinces, but mortgage rates have stabilized around 3.8% to 4%. This makes it easier to plan your budget compared to a few years ago.

A Quick Tip on Condos

One thing to watch is the condo market. We are seeing more condos for sale than houses. Because there is more “supply,” condo prices aren’t growing as fast as houses. If you are a first-time buyer, this might be your best chance to get into the market!

The post Montreal Market Forecast 2026: Where Prices Are Headed appeared first on Groupe Baronello.

If you are thinking about buying a home this year, here are five simple goals to help you succeed.

1. Look for the “Condo Health Certificate”

If you are buying a condo in Quebec, there is a big new rule as of late 2025. Before you buy, the seller must give you a special document called a Syndicate Certificate.

Think of this like a “health report card” for the building. It tells you if the building has enough money for repairs and if there are any big fixes coming up (like a new roof). This helps you avoid “special assessments”—which are surprise bills that can cost thousands of dollars!

2. Check for “Welcome Tax” Refunds

Did you know the City of Montreal wants to help families stay on the island? If you are a first-time buyer with a child under 18, or if you already own a home but have a child under 13, you might get your “Welcome Tax” (land transfer tax) paid back to you!

Depending on where you buy and the price of the home, this could save you between $5,000 and $15,000. That is a lot of extra money for furniture or moving costs!

3. Use the New RRSP Limit

The federal government has made it easier to use your savings. You can now take out up to $60,000 from your RRSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plan) to buy your first home without paying taxes on it right away. If you are buying with a partner, that is $120,000 together! It is a great way to boost your down payment.

4. Don’t Be Fooled by “Low” Condo Fees

In 2026, a condo with very low monthly fees might actually be a red flag. Because of a law called Bill 16, all condo buildings in Quebec must now save more money for future repairs. If the fees are too low, it might mean the building isn’t following the new rules yet. It is often safer to buy in a building with slightly higher fees that has a solid plan for the future.

5. Get Your “Pre-Approval” Updated

Interest rates have stabilized, but they still change. Before you start visiting homes in Plateau, Griffintown, or the West Island, talk to your bank or broker. Getting a pre-approval letter tells sellers you are a serious buyer and lets you know exactly what you can afford so you don’t fall in love with a house that is out of your budget.

The post 5 Real Estate Resolutions for 2026: A Montreal Buyer’s Checklist appeared first on Groupe Baronello.

A few small habits can help your appliances live years longer and keep your energy bills lower. Here is how to show your “big three” some love:

 The Washing Machine: Keep it Fresh

A washing machine works hard, but it can get “tired” if it’s ignored.

• Don’t Overload It: It’s tempting to stuff in one last towel, but a machine that is too full works twice as hard and can break its motor.
• Leave the Door Open: After you finish a load, leave the door cracked open. This lets the inside dry out and prevents that “stinky” mildew smell.
• The Monthly Clean: Once a month, run an empty cycle with hot water and a little bit of specialized cleaner (or white vinegar) to wash away soap buildup.

 The Dryer: Safety First

A happy dryer is one that can “breathe” easily.

• The Lint Screen: You probably know this one, but it’s the most important! Clean the lint filter after every single load. It helps clothes dry faster and prevents fires.
• Check the Outside Vent: Once a year, go outside and make sure the vent where the air blows out isn’t blocked by bird nests, snow, or lint.
• Dryer Sheets: If you use dryer sheets, they can leave a waxy film on the lint screen. Give the screen a quick scrub with a toothbrush and soapy water every few months to keep the air flowing.

 The Refrigerator: Stay Cool

Your fridge is the only appliance that never gets a break. It runs 24/7!

• Clean the Coils: Most fridges have “coils” (black grates) on the back or at the bottom. If they get dusty, the fridge has to work much harder to stay cold. Vacuum them once a year to keep things running efficiently.
• Check the Seal: The rubber strip around the door (the gasket) keeps the cold air in. If it’s dirty, the air leaks out. Wipe it down with warm soapy water so it stays sticky and tight.
• Give it Space: Don’t push your fridge completely against the wall. It needs an inch or two of space to “exhale” heat.

Taking 10 minutes a month to check on these items can save you thousands of dollars in repairs later. Plus, well-maintained appliances are a huge selling point if you ever decide to put your home on the market!

The post 🛠️ Appliance Care: How to Make Your Washer, Dryer, and Fridge Last Longer appeared first on Groupe Baronello.

If you own a condo or are thinking of buying one here in Quebec, understanding the condo fees (frais de condo) is essential. Your monthly payment is much more than just a simple bill; it is a critical part of protecting your investment and maintaining your community.

In Montreal, our co-ownership laws are very specific about where this money must go. Your monthly payment covers three main areas:

1.  Running the Show (Operating Budget)

This is the money used to keep the building clean, safe, and running smoothly every day.

• Entretien et Concierge (Cleaning & Maintenance): This pays for things like cleaning the hallways, taking care of landscaping, and, importantly in Montreal, snow removal!
• Chauffage et Électricité (Utilities): This covers the cost of lighting the common areas (like the lobby, hallways, and garage) and often includes the heating and hot water for the whole building.
• Assurance du Syndicat (Building Insurance): This pays for the insurance that protects the structure of the building, including the roof, foundation, and common areas. Crucial Note: You still need your own individual condo insurance for everything inside your unit (your furniture, clothes, and liability!).
• Management: This pays the people (the property manager or the Syndicate directors) who handle the bills, hire contractors, and make sure the building is managed well.
• Les Commodités (Amenities): If your building has a pool, gym, or terrace, the fees cover the cost to clean and maintain these shared spaces.

2.  The Future Savings Account (Le Fonds de Prévoyance)

This is the single most important part of your condo fees, and it is a legal requirement in Quebec. The Fonds de prévoyance is a separate bank account used only for major, big-ticket repairs that are planned for the future.

• What does it pay for? Replacing the roof, installing a new elevator, changing all the windows, or repairing the concrete in the garage. These are all huge costs that happen every 15 to 30 years.
• Why is it important? A well-funded Fonds de prévoyance prevents special assessments—which is when the Syndicate asks every owner for a big, unplanned lump sum of money all at once because the savings account is empty and a big repair is suddenly needed.

Quebec Law Update: Recent changes, like Bill 16, now require condos to get a professional study (Étude du fonds de prévoyance) done every five years. This study tells the Syndicate exactly how much money they must put into the fund each month to make sure there’s enough for future repairs. This is a huge step to protect all owners!

3.  Insurance Deductible Savings (Le Fonds d’Autoassurance)

This is another fund that is unique to Quebec and a mandatory part of your fees.

• This money is set aside specifically to pay the Syndicate’s insurance deductible in case of a major claim (like a big water leak or a fire).
• If the building has a high deductible (e.g., $50,000) and the Syndicate doesn’t have a Fonds d’Autoassurance, all the owners could be charged a special assessment to pay that deductible. This fund helps avoid that surprise bill!

The Big Picture for a Montreal Owner

Never be tempted by low condo fees! Low fees often mean the Fonds de prévoyance is not properly funded, which can lead to expensive special assessments later on.

Before buying or if you have questions now, you should always ask to see the Budget, the Financial Statements, and the Étude du fonds de prévoyance. These documents show you how healthy the building’s finances are.

The post The Condo Fees Deep Dive: What Your Monthly Payment Really Covers appeared first on Groupe Baronello.

The Problem: Summer Madness

Like many families, Marc and Stephanie started their search in the spring and summer. They quickly realized they were up against stiff competition:

• Bidding Wars: Every great listing was met with multiple offers, pushing prices over asking.
• Time Pressure: They felt rushed to view homes and make decisions, which caused stress.
• High Prices: Peak season activity meant they were competing against peak market prices.

They realized they were playing the game on the sellers’ terms. We decided to pivot and wait for the perfect moment.

The Strategy: Embracing the December Slowdown

As October turned to November, and the holiday buzz started, the market began its predictable Montreal slowdown. Here’s what happened, and why it became their advantage:

1. Fewer Buyers Mean Less Competition: Most potential buyers put their search on pause to focus on holiday travel, school breaks, and gift shopping. This meant that the few properties remaining on the market were seeing significantly fewer visitors and offers.
2. Motivated Sellers: Any seller who keeps their home on the market in December is usually highly motivated to close the deal before the end of the year. They don’t want to carry the costs and hassle of showing a home through the deepest part of winter and into the new year.

We identified a stunning single-family home in the West Island that had been listed for a few weeks but had failed to sell in the busy season. It was perfect for Marc and Stephanie’s family, but the price was a little ambitious.

The Win: Patience Pays Off

Because Marc and Stephanie were not in a rush, we were able to approach the transaction with confidence and a clear strategy:

• We submitted a firm offer that was competitive, but strategically below the asking price.
• The seller, eager to finalize the transaction and take their house off the market before Christmas, was open to negotiation. With fewer other buyers distracting them, they focused on our serious offer.

The result? Marc and Stephanie secured their dream home for a price they were comfortable with, avoiding a stressful bidding war entirely. They signed the final documents just days before Christmas, giving them the perfect gift: a new home to welcome the new year!

 The Takeaway for You

Marc and Stephanie’s story proves that the “slow” seasons in Montreal(late fall and mid-winter) can be the best time for a disciplined buyer to strike.

If you are a serious buyer, and you have your financing pre-approved, you can leverage the holiday market slowdown to your advantage:

• Find Motivated Sellers who are ready to make a deal.
• Face Less Competition from other buyers.
• Gain Leverage to negotiate better terms and a lower price.

Ready to find your perfect Montreal home without the spring-market stress?

The post Client Success Story: One of The Smart Way to Buy a Family Home in Montreal appeared first on Groupe Baronello.

This contract isn’t just paperwork; it protects you, sets expectations, and ensures your broker works fully in your best interest.

 What the Contract Means for You

By signing, you’re giving your broker the authority to help you search for and purchase a property. In return, the broker must follow clear legal duties under Quebec’s Real Estate Brokerage Act.

Your Broker Must:

 Give you all important information

They must tell you everything they know about the property, the market, and the buying process. Especially anything that could affect your decision.

 Be loyal to you

Your broker must always put your interests first, even above their own or the seller’s.

 Act professionally

They must use their knowledge to guide you, search properly for properties, and help you understand documents like the Promise to Purchase.

 Keep your information confidential

Details like your maximum budget or reasons for buying cannot be shared with anyone else.

 Clauses That Protect You

The contract includes several sections that directly benefit the buyer.

1. Scope & Duration

The contract clearly states what type of property you’re looking for and in what area. It also sets start and end dates for the agreement.

Why this helps you:
 Ensures your broker focuses on the right type of property
 Gives you a clear end date so you’re not tied to a broker forever

2. How the Broker Gets Paid

In Quebec, the seller typically pays the commission for both brokers. The buyer’s contract simply explains how this works.

Why this helps you:
 You know exactly how payments work
 You’re usually NOT responsible for paying your broker directly
 The exclusivity motivates your broker to work hard for you

3. The Holdover Clause (Protection After the Contract Ends)

If your broker shows you a property during the contract and you buy it after the contract expires, they may still be entitled to their commission.

Why this helps you (indirectly):
 Encourages your broker to keep working hard until the very end
 Protects the effort they invested in showing you qualified properties

 Strong Oversight & Transparency

The OACIQ (Quebec’s real estate regulatory body) oversees the broker–buyer relationship.

OACIQ-approved forms:

The buyer’s contract uses standardized forms that already include all mandatory protections.

If something goes wrong:

If a broker fails in their duties, buyers can file a complaint or seek help from the OACIQ, including possible compensation from the Indemnity Fund in cases of fraud or misappropriation.

 In Short

The Buyer’s Brokerage Contract is your protection in Quebec real estate. It ensures:

• You get professional and loyal representation
• Your interests come first
• Your information stays private
• You understand exactly how the process works

With this contract, you’re not navigating the buying process alone; you have a trained professional legally required to represent you and protect your rights from start to finish.

The post Understanding the Buyer’s Contract in Quebec Real Estate appeared first on Groupe Baronello.

1. Have a Simple, Honest Group Discussion

Before calling a broker or listing the home, the heirs should have one, or more if needed  calm conversation to align expectations. Focus on:

• Whether everyone agrees the property should be sold
• The ideal selling timeline
• Emotional concerns (ex: someone is attached to the family home)
• Financial needs, some heirs need the money sooner than others

Most conflicts happen when people make assumptions. A single 30-45 minute conversation can prevent months of disagreements and tension.

2. Appoint One Family Representative

Normally, the last will and testament should appoint one liquidator of the succession (which simplifies things), but sometimes, all the heirs to the succession are in charge… If that is the case, Instead of having four or five people try to manage the sale, choose one point person someone organized and neutral to handle communication with:

• The notary
• The listing broker
• The estate executor (liquidator)
• Inspectors and potential buyers

This doesn’t give the chosen representative more power (such as the liquidator would have) as decisions still require everyone’s approval but it avoids confusion, repeated messages, and delays. In Montreal’s fast-paced market, a single spokesperson keeps the process running smoothly.

3. Get a Professional Market Evaluation

To keep things fair and argument-free, hire a Montreal real estate broker to provide a comparative market analysis. Montreal’s market changes quickly from neighbourhood to neighbourhood Villeray, Anjou, Duvernay, and Rosemont all behave differently so relying on a professional prevents disagreements about the listing price.

If the estate wants something more formal, a certified appraiser can provide an official valuation. With a professional number in hand, decisions become objective instead of emotional.

4. Agree on the Selling Strategy and Keep It Simple

Once everyone is aligned on price, the co-owners should also agree on:

• The listing price
• Minimum acceptable price
• Whether they’re open to pre-inspection or small repairs
• How costs (cleaning, small fixes, notary fees) will be divided

Since properties in Montreal often sell quickly, keeping the plan simple avoids last-minute arguments when offers come in.

For clarity, the family representative can send a short summary email that everyone replies to with approval. That way, the broker has clear instructions and everyone feels included.

Selling an inherited property with multiple heirs or liquidators in doesn’t need to be stressful. When the legal steps are handled properly, communication stays open, and expectations are aligned, the sale becomes smooth and conflict-free.

The post Did you Inherit a Property With Multiple Owners? Here’s How to Sell Without Conflict appeared first on Groupe Baronello.

Once seen as an over-the-top luxury for high-end properties, heated driveways are slowly making their way into everyday homes. But are they just a fancy winter perk, or could they actually be a smart, long-term investment?

How They Work

A heated driveway system is exactly what it sounds like: a network of heating elements installed beneath your driveway surface. There are two main types:

• Electric systems, which use heating cables that warm up when powered on.
• Hydronic systems, which circulate warm water through tubing connected to a boiler or water heater.

Many setups come with smart sensors that detect temperature and moisture, automatically turning on the heat when snow begins to fall and shutting it off once the surface is clear. It’s low-maintenance and energy-efficient especially compared to running outdoor heaters or constantly salting.

The Benefits Go Beyond Comfort

It’s easy to think of a heated driveway as a comfort feature, but there are some real, practical benefits that homeowners appreciate year after year:

• Safety First: No ice patches, no slipping, and no need to worry about guests or delivery drivers falling.
• Less Maintenance: Say goodbye to shoveling, plowing, and spreading salt that damages concrete and landscaping.
• Longevity: By preventing freeze-thaw cycles, you protect your driveway surface from cracking and erosion.
• Convenience: You can sleep in on a snowy morning or leave for work without worrying about clearing snow.
• Curb Appeal & Value: For buyers in snowy regions, a heated driveway is a standout feature and one that can help your home sell faster or at a premium.

The Investment Side

Of course, comfort and convenience come with a cost. Installing a heated driveway typically runs between $15–$30 per square foot, depending on your driveway size, the type of system, and whether you’re doing a full replacement or retrofit.

Operating costs depend on your local energy rates and how often it snows, but with modern sensors and smart thermostats, systems are much more efficient than they used to be. Some homeowners report spending less than they would on yearly snow removal services.

And don’t forget beyond saving money, you’re also saving time and effort, which many people value just as much.

Who Should Consider One

A heated driveway might be a great fit if you:

• Live in an area with consistent snow or ice through the winter.
• Are planning to stay in your home for several years.
• Want to reduce winter maintenance or improve accessibility (especially for older family members).
• Value upgrades that add resale appeal.

So, is a heated driveway a luxury or a smart investment? In truth, it’s a little of both. Yes, it feels luxurious to have a driveway that clears itself but it’s also a thoughtful, long-term improvement that enhances safety, convenience, and property value.

For homeowners who face tough winters every year, it might just be one of those “smart luxuries” that truly pays off in comfort and peace of mind.

The post Heated Driveways: Luxury or Smart Move for Homeowners? appeared first on Groupe Baronello.