Buying a house is probably the biggest transaction you’ll ever make in your life.
Let’s make it a good one.
My name is Behrooz Davani, a top-ranking real estate agent and broker living and working in Montreal. For over 8 years, I have been helping clients from all walks of life, including first-time homebuyers and empty-nesters looking to downsize.
In this article, we will explore all the things that need to happen when you purchase a home from start to finish — from finding the right neighbourhood, to securing financing.
The decision to buy a house is a big one. It is also the start of a journey that can be quite challenging, especially if you’re a first time home buyer.
So if you’re planning to buy a house in Montreal, the first question is: where do I start?
The 6 steps to buy a house in Montreal are:
- Determine your budget
- Find a neighbourhood that’s right for you
- Hire an experienced Montreal realtor
- Get pre-approved for financing
- Make an offer
- Close the sale
Read on to learn more getting through each step in the process towards buying a house in Montreal.
Step 1: Determine your budget
The first step to buying a house is determining your budget. To do this, you’ll need to consider your whole financial portfolio including your income, monthly and annual expenses as well as any other financial obligations you may have.
You’ll also want to factor in the down payment, as well as the fees that come up at the end of the purchase of a new home, such as closing costs.
First time homebuyers in Montreal may have no idea how to determine their budgets—and that’s okay. Contact me and I’ll answer all your questions, and point you in the direction of a financial planner, if necessary.
So, do your financial planning, set a realistic budget, and then the fun part begins: house hunting.
Step 2: Find a neighbourhood that’s right for you
Where do you want to live?
In Montreal, we are blessed with beautiful and diverse neighbourhoods. Before you buy a home, ask your self what’s most important to you.
Make a checklist with all the characteristics that would be in your ideal neighbourhood. As an experienced Montreal realtor, I am confident that we can find a neighbourhood that has what you are looking for.
Some homebuyers want to be close to public transportation, and others want to be close to green spaces. Some clients want to live right downtown, and others are looking for a more quiet, residential area. Do some research to find neighbourhoods you like and. Spend some time exploring to get a feel for the communities around Montreal.
If you’re new to Montreal, learn more about this wonderful city with my post:
5 Things You Need to Know Before Moving to Montreal
Step 3: Hire an experienced Montreal realtor
Your real estate agent can be an excellent resource to help you buy a house in Montreal.
Realtors can help you navigate the entire home buying process from start to finish. They can also provide insights on the local market and help you find a home that meets your needs. Most importantly, you need to find someone a real estate agent that makes you feel comfortable, answers your questions, and is available when you need them.
As I’ve said before, I live here, work here, and know the city of Montreal well. I can help you navigated the complex field of real estate and help you buy your dream home in Montreal.
Check out some of my 5-Star reviews to learn more.
Step 4: Get pre-approved for financing
Before you start looking at homes, it’s a good idea to get pre-approved for a mortgage. Even though you’ve already done your budgeting and financial planning, mortgage pre-approval will make it a sure thing.
Offers on new homes are often conditional based on financing, but if you’ve already been approved for a mortgage—you are set. Your mortgage pre-approval will make your purchase of a new home in Montreal move more quickly.
Contact a lender or mortgage broker to get started. If no one comes to mind, contact me and I can recommend local brokers who can help you buy home in Montreal.
Step 5: Make an offer
Once you’ve found your ideal Montreal home in a great neighbourhood, don’t wait to make an offer.
Tell your real estate agent that it’s go-time, and they’ll help you put together that includes all your needs and any conditions that you may need to include.
As an experienced realtor, I know that the transaction is far from over after the offer has been sent off. The seller always has the opportunity to either accept, reject, or counter your offer. Be prepared for some friendly negotiation.
No need to worry, though. Your agent will have your back and advocate for your needs each and every step of the way.
Step 6: Close the sale
When your offer is accepted, it is time to close the sale. There will be stacks of paperwork to sign, and closing costs to settle.
You do not have to do this alone. Your mortgage broker or lender will be there to make sure that everything is in order so that you can focus on getting ready for your move into a new home in Montreal.
When that’s all done, it’s time to pop champagne!
Buying a home in Montreal is far from easy, but with these 6 steps, you can get your journey started with confidence.
To recap, the 6 essential steps to buy a house in Montreal are:
- Determine your budget
- Find a neighbourhood that’s right for you
- Hire an experienced Montreal realtor
- Get pre-approved for financing
- Make an offer
- Close the sale
As an experienced Montreal real estate agent, I have been helping clients buy new homes all over this beautiful city. Contact me to help you find your new house in Montreal today.
