The latest housing data shows a slight cooling in Canada’s residential construction activity. As we move into mid-Q3, the six-month trend for housing starts dipped by about 1.3%, with an annualized rate of roughly 244,000 units. In major Canadian cities, actual starts reached 17,700—down about 2% compared to last year, and the total for the first eight months now stands at 149,500, a 4% decrease. While homes under construction in cities over 50,000 people edged down less than 1% to 371,700 units, there’s still a substantial pipeline, even as completions softened by 11% to 17,600 units. Permits for future projects ticked up just under 1%, indicating more developments are lined up. Even as the national outlook points to a continued moderation in new starts, construction activity remains elevated compared to recent years. For anyone navigating the Montreal, Laval, or Laurentides markets—whether buying, selling, renting, or considering a renovation—keeping an eye on these trends can help you find the right strategy for your next step.

Canada’s commercial real estate market is moving forward with a focus on disciplined, thoughtful opportunities. With stable policies and clearer debt markets, investors are taking a targeted approach—prime downtown offices, modern logistics hubs, and multi-family residences are leading the way. Grocery-anchored retail remains a steady choice, while owners are opting for pad-site additions and re-tenanting strategies over large-scale redevelopments. Office dynamics are evolving, too; clearer return-to-office plans mean more attention on top-tier spaces and creative uses for older buildings. For lower-tier offices and some secondary industrial properties, pricing pressure and landlord concessions continue, so a sharp, selective approach to portfolio management is key. In my work, whether you’re looking to buy, sell, rent, or renovate, I help clients navigate these shifting priorities and find the right fit across Montreal, Laval, and the Laurentides.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation honours survivors and raises awareness about their experiences.
It's a symbol of Canada's commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous communities.
Wearing orange shirts on this day symbolizes respect for survivors and raises awareness about residential schools.
May this day inspire a future where every voice is heard, and every spirit is healed.
Together, we can create a tomorrow filled with hope and endless possibilities.

Despite some of the recent headlines, investor confidence in Canadian commercial real estate remains strong. In fact, the market is on a path that could see 2026 become a record-setting year for investment. Multifamily properties continue to lead the way, with industrial assets also showing impressive activity. Toronto holds the largest share of national transactions, but it’s worth noting the notable gains seen in markets like London, Waterloo Region, and Ottawa. With global uncertainty on the rise, it’s clear why investors are drawn to the stability and long-term returns Canadian commercial real estate can offer. As someone who guides clients through every aspect of property decisions in Montreal, Laval, and Laurentides, I see the value in understanding where momentum is building and how it can shape your next move.

When I guide clients through buying, selling, or investing—whether it’s a home in Montreal or a rental property in Laval—understanding how real estate is valued is key. Cap rate is a cornerstone: it translates annual net operating income (NOI) into property value. For example, $1M in NOI and a 14% cap rate points to a value around $7.1M. There are different ways to approach cap rates—some build up risk premiums, others analyze recent comparable sales, and the band-of-investment method blends debt costs with equity return goals. For a well-rounded perspective, I look at both absolute valuation (focusing on future income) and relative valuation (comparing similar properties). Tools like the gross income multiplier, which starts with gross rent and adjusts for vacancy, and the band-of-investment (especially important when financing comes into play), help round out the analysis. In market downturns, I prioritize uncovering undervalued properties in prime locations with stable cash flow and manageable debt. Deep research and a strategic approach often reveal opportunities others overlook.