Your questions,
clear answers
Buying or selling on the South Shore raises a lot of questions. Here are the ones our clients ask most, with honest, jargon-free answers.
Buying a property
What's my maximum buying budget?
Your budget depends on your income, down payment, debts and current mortgage rate. The first step is a mortgage pre-approval: it sets a realistic amount and makes you credible with sellers. We can refer you to a trusted mortgage broker if needed.
How much should I plan for the down payment and closing costs?
In Quebec the minimum down payment starts at 5 % for a home, with mortgage insurance depending on the percentage. Also budget for closing costs: notary, inspection, welcome tax (transfer duties) and adjustments. We give you a clear estimate tailored to your project from the start.
Which area best fits my needs and budget?
That's our specialty on the South Shore: we know prices, schools, services and transit access city by city. We start from your profile (family, first purchase, investment) to target the areas where your budget buys best, from Sainte-Catherine to La Prairie, Candiac or Châteauguay.
How long has this property been on the market?
We check the exact listing date and the property's history. A home listed for a long time or with price reductions often leaves room to negotiate; a fresh, well-priced one calls for a stronger offer. That reading guides our strategy.
Why is the seller selling?
The seller's motivation (relocation, estate, timeline) directly affects negotiation. We probe it with the listing broker to build an offer that meets their priorities — sometimes the possession date matters as much as the price.
Is the asking price negotiable?
Almost always, to varying degrees. The real question isn't "how much to cut" but "what's fair value" based on real comparables in the area. We back every offer with concrete recent sales, not a hunch — that's what makes a negotiation strong.
Are there known issues or renovations to expect?
The seller's declaration reveals known defects, and the pre-purchase inspection confirms the real condition (roof, foundation, electrical, plumbing). We help you tell normal upkeep from a costly problem, and factor it into the price.
How much will municipal and school taxes cost?
They're based on the municipal assessment and each South Shore city's tax rate. We provide the exact figures for the property in question so your monthly budget is realistic, taxes included.
What are the steps after an accepted offer?
Once the promise to purchase is accepted come the conditions: inspection, mortgage financing and document review. Each condition is met within the deadlines, then the file goes to the notary for signing and possession. We guide you at every step.
What if the inspection reveals a major problem?
You're not trapped: depending on the promise's conditions, we can renegotiate the price, require repairs, or withdraw without penalty. Our job is to protect your interests and give you a straight read on the real scope of the work.
Selling a property
What's my property worth right now?
We offer a free, no-obligation VIP evaluation, backed by real, recent comparables in your area. Unlike an automated online estimate, it accounts for condition, renovations, location and the current market dynamic in your city.
What price should I list at?
At the right price from day one. A well-positioned property at launch draws more buyers, creates competition and often sells faster and for more than an overpriced one that must later be reduced. We set that price together, backed by comparables.
How long will it take to sell?
A well-listed, clean, well-marketed property generally sells in 30 days or less on the South Shore. The timeline varies with product type, starting price and area — an overpriced or unprepared home naturally takes longer.
What commission will I pay?
The commission is a percentage of the sale price, plus taxes, agreed in advance at our meeting. It covers the full service: evaluation, VIP marketing, professional photos, the RE/MAX network, showings, negotiation and follow-up through to signing. Everything is transparent, no surprises.
What work or renovations should I do before selling?
Rarely major renovations — rather the high-return moves: spotless cleanliness, decluttering, minor repairs and touch-ups that reassure buyers. During our visit we tell you exactly what's worth doing and what won't pay off.
How do I prepare my home for photos and showings?
We declutter, depersonalize and highlight light and space. First impressions happen online: professional photos and a show-ready home make all the difference. We guide you room by room, home staging included if needed.
How will you promote my property?
Through VIP marketing: professional photos, distribution on Centris and the portals, the national RE/MAX network, social media and signage installed quickly. Our full-service office can list a property in a day or two — visibility starts fast and strong.
What happens if I receive multiple offers?
That's the best scenario, and it's handled methodically. We analyze each offer — price, conditions, financing, dates — to keep the strongest, not just the highest. Our negotiation experience protects you and maximizes the final result.
What fees and taxes should I expect when selling?
Mainly the commission (plus taxes) and notary fees for discharging your mortgage, sometimes an updated location certificate. Capital gains may apply if it isn't your principal residence. We review your situation at the meeting.
What are the steps between an accepted offer and signing at the notary?
After acceptance, the buyer meets their conditions (inspection, financing) within the agreed deadlines. The file then goes to the notary, who prepares the deed, runs the checks and sets the signing and possession. We coordinate everything through to handing over the keys.
A question that isn’t here?
Write to us or request your free evaluation — a real person answers you.