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26/04/2026
If your home has been sitting on the market with no offers, you're not alone… and you're not out of options.
This week on Under One Roof MTL, we break down what sellers should do when a listing isn...
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If your home has been sitting on the market with no offers, you're not alone… and you're not out of options. This week on Under One Roof MTL, we break down what sellers should do when a listing isn't getting traction, including how to adjust your price strategically without losing leverage. Plus, we tackle some of the most common mortgage myths that continue to confuse buyers and homeowners in 2026. In This Episode: What's Happening in the Market Right Now • Inflation rises to 2.4%, driven in part by higher gas prices • Housing affordability and job security are now top concerns for Canadians • Many homeowners are preparing for mortgage renewals at higher rates Real Estate: What to Do If Your Home Isn't Selling • How to tell if it's a pricing issue or a presentation problem • The psychology behind price drops and buyer perception • Whether to make one major price adjustment or multiple smaller ones • When to consider pulling and re-listing a property • How to reposition your home to attract new interest Mortgages: Dispelling Common Mortgage Myths • "My bank will automatically give me the best renewal offer" • "If you're self-employed, you can't get a mortgage" • "A pre-approval guarantees financing" • "Mortgage brokers only help if the bank says no" • "Paying off debt always improves your approval" Property of the Week 📍 Griffintown, Montreal Two-bedroom condo with private balcony, in-unit laundry, and low condo fees ($173/month), listed at $475,000. Walk to the metro, the Lachine Canal, Atwater Market, and some of Montreal's best restaurants and cafés. Trivia Question of the Week What is the name of the tax you pay when you purchase a property in Quebec? Answer: Welcome Tax (land transfer tax), now reimbursable for some first-time homebuyers. Get in Touch:
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25/04/2026
If you're investing in Montreal, you need to decide this first: Are you buying for cashflow or long-term real estate appreciation? Most Montreal plexes in 2026 might not give you both, so a clear inve...
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If you're investing in Montreal, you need to decide this first: Are you buying for cashflow or long-term real estate appreciation? Most Montreal plexes in 2026 might not give you both, so a clear investment strategy is crucial. I break down what's happening in today's real estate market and how serious investors are adapting their approach to find real estate advice and opportunities. Pick your strategy first, then buy accordingly. 📩 Not sure which one fits your goals? Let’s map it out. Thinking of Moving to Montreal? 🍁 Find your dream home here 👉 https://www.ljrealties.com 📱 Call or Text: 514-578-6397 📨 Email: [email protected] 📅 Book a free consultation: https://www.meetwithlj.com/
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24/04/2026
Thinking of Moving to Montreal? 🍁
Find your dream home here 👉 https://www.ljrealties.com
📱 Call or Text: 514-578-6397
📨 Email: [email protected]
📅 Book a free consultation: https://www.meetwithlj.com/...
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Thinking of Moving to Montreal? 🍁 Find your dream home here 👉 https://www.ljrealties.com 📱 Call or Text: 514-578-6397 📨 Email: [email protected] 📅 Book a free consultation: https://www.meetwithlj.com/ Spring bidding wars are back in Montreal… and people think that only by overpaying they will win. That is a HUGE mistake! In fact, there are a lot of buyers that lose money after they win, not during the offer. In this video, I will break down exactly how to win a bidding war strategically, and give you tools that work without costing you thousands. On this video we cover: Mistakes buyers make in multiple offers How to set your walkaway price (the right way) Why list price is not everything during the spring market The power of strong terms (not just price) When to push… and when to walk away Because the goal isn’t just to win the house, our goal is to get the house without regret. 📅 Book your buyer strategy call: https://www.ljrealties.com
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22/04/2026
🏡 Buying a home before selling your current one in Montreal?
Here’s how bridge financing works 👇
A bridge loan is short-term financing that lets you access your home equity before your sale closes.
...
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🏡 Buying a home before selling your current one in Montreal? Here’s how bridge financing works 👇 A bridge loan is short-term financing that lets you access your home equity before your sale closes. Example: • You buy a new home • Your current home sells 2 weeks later • The bank “bridges” that gap by advancing your equity Once your sale closes → the bridge loan is paid off. 💡 Key things to know: • It’s NOT long-term debt • It’s a timing tool • It must be approved in advance • You can’t set this up last minute 📍 In Montreal’s fast-moving market, timing your transactions properly is critical. Thinking of buying + selling at the same time? Let’s build your strategy before you make a move. 📱 Call or Text: 514-578-6397 📨 Email: [email protected] 📅 Book a free consultation: https://www.meetwithlj.com/
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20/04/2026
This week on Under One Roof, we're talking about the new initiative announced by the Quebec government to reimburse the welcome tax for first-time home buyers. Plus, LJ has some advice on whether now ...
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This week on Under One Roof, we're talking about the new initiative announced by the Quebec government to reimburse the welcome tax for first-time home buyers. Plus, LJ has some advice on whether now is the right time to buy. And, Fred and Martin break down which insurance products are mandatory, nice to have, and optional.
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19/04/2026
Should you pay off your mortgage early… or your car first?
Most people think paying down their mortgage faster is the smartest move. But when you look at cash flow, the answer changes.
Here’s the br...
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Should you pay off your mortgage early… or your car first? Most people think paying down their mortgage faster is the smartest move. But when you look at cash flow, the answer changes. Here’s the breakdown: • $30,000 car loan at 7% → $600/month • $400,000 mortgage at 6.5% That car is costing you in two ways: ❌ Monthly payment ❌ Depreciation (~$4,000/year) Meanwhile, extra mortgage payments: ➡ Reduce long-term interest ➡ But don’t free up monthly cash flow 💡 Smarter strategy: ✔ Pay off the car first ✔ Free up $600/month ✔ Invest that $600 at ~10% return Over 25 years = ~$800,000 That’s the power of cash flow + compounding 🏡 Mortgage = appreciating asset 🚗 Car = depreciating liability Follow for more real estate and financial strategies in Montreal.
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17/04/2026
Thinking of Moving to Montreal? 🍁
Find your dream home here 👉 https://www.ljrealties.com
📱 Call or Text: 514-578-6397
📨 Email: [email protected]
📅 Book a free consultation: https://www.meetwithlj.com/...
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Thinking of Moving to Montreal? 🍁 Find your dream home here 👉 https://www.ljrealties.com 📱 Call or Text: 514-578-6397 📨 Email: [email protected] 📅 Book a free consultation: https://www.meetwithlj.com/ The Q1 2026 Montreal real estate numbers are in… and the story is not what most people think. Sales are down. Inventory is up. But prices are still rising. So what’s really happening in the Montreal housing market? In this video, I break down: What actually happened in Q1 2026 Why prices are still increasing despite lower sales The truth about supply vs demand Why plexes are the strongest asset class right now Where buyers have leverage (and where they don’t) What this means for buyers, sellers, and investors This is not hype, it's just real data and real strategy from the Montreal market. I’m
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16/04/2026
If you trying to avoid mortgage insurance, that could cost you way more than you think.
Let’s break down the real numbers:
🏡 Purchase price: $450,000
💰 5% down: $22,500
Mortgage insurance cost:
≈ $...
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If you trying to avoid mortgage insurance, that could cost you way more than you think. Let’s break down the real numbers: 🏡 Purchase price: $450,000 💰 5% down: $22,500 Mortgage insurance cost: ≈ $17,100 + interest ≈ $20,500 total Now here’s the part most people don't think about: If you wait 5 years to save 20% down, at just 3% appreciation, that $450K home becomes ≈ $521,000 That’s a gain of $71,000!! So you avoided paying $20,500… but missed out on $71,000 in appreciation. Smart buyers understand that it’s not just about saving money, it’s about opportunity cost. 📍If you’re buying in Montreal, timing matters more than perfection. Follow for more real estate strategies that actually make you money.
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13/04/2026
🏡 Want to save $61,000+ on your mortgage without refinancing?
Here’s the simple trick:
Mortgage: $500,000 at 4.25%
Monthly payment: $2,450
The strategy would be to split your payment in half and pa...
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🏡 Want to save $61,000+ on your mortgage without refinancing? Here’s the simple trick: Mortgage: $500,000 at 4.25% Monthly payment: $2,450 The strategy would be to split your payment in half and pay every 2 weeks • $2,450 ÷ 2 = $1,225 • 26 payments/year instead of 12 monthly payments ➡ Equals 1 extra payment per year The results over time: • Save ≈ $61,000 in interest • Pay off your mortgage 4 years faster Why it works: You’re reducing principal faster → less interest over time. 📍 Works for homeowners across Canada, including Montreal. Follow for more real estate and mortgage strategies that actually save you money.
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12/04/2026
This week on Under One Roof, we're taking a look at the factors that are causing fixed rates to increase right now. Plus, prices are dropping in some of Canada's most expensive cities... but that like...
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This week on Under One Roof, we're taking a look at the factors that are causing fixed rates to increase right now. Plus, prices are dropping in some of Canada's most expensive cities... but that likely won't help first-time buyers get into the market. And, everything YOU need to know about down payments.
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10/04/2026
Thinking of Moving to Montreal? 🍁
Find your dream home here 👉 https://www.ljrealties.com
📱 Call or Text: 514-578-6397
📨 Email: [email protected]
📅 Book a free consultation: https://www.meetwithlj.com/...
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Thinking of Moving to Montreal? 🍁 Find your dream home here 👉 https://www.ljrealties.com 📱 Call or Text: 514-578-6397 📨 Email: [email protected] 📅 Book a free consultation: https://www.meetwithlj.com/ If you’re investing in Montreal real estate in 2026 and expecting easy cash flow… you’re probably frustrated. Deals barely break even. Numbers feel tight. And investors are starting to ask: Is cash flow dead? In this video, I break down what’s actually happening in today’s market and how serious investors are adapting their strategy. We cover: Why cash flow feels harder in 2026 The real impact of higher interest rates Why traditional underwriting is outdated What smart investors are doing differently How to find opportunities in a tighter market Why strategy matters more than ever Because the truth is simple: 👉 Cash flow isn’t dead, but easy cash flow is. I’m
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07/04/2026
💸 Should you invest or pay off debt first?
A lot of “financial gurus” say: "Invest your money and make minimum payments on your debt"
But here’s the REAL math:
Scenario 1
• Invest $10,000 at 10% → ...
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💸 Should you invest or pay off debt first? A lot of “financial gurus” say: "Invest your money and make minimum payments on your debt" But here’s the REAL math: Scenario 1 • Invest $10,000 at 10% → ~$67,000 in 20 years • Credit card interest paid → ~$38,000 ➡ Net gain = ~$29,000 Scenario 2: • Pay off $10,000 debt at 18% • Invest $300/month instead ➡ After 20 years = ~$229,000 💥 Difference = $200,000+ The lesson: High-interest debt kills wealth faster than investing builds it. 📍 If you’re building wealth through real estate in Montreal, this principle matters even more. Follow for more smart money and real estate strategies.
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05/04/2026
This week on Under One Roof, we're taking a look at how the recent surge in oil prices and expected job losses could impact the Bank of Canada's next interest rate announcement on April 29th. Plus, wh...
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This week on Under One Roof, we're taking a look at how the recent surge in oil prices and expected job losses could impact the Bank of Canada's next interest rate announcement on April 29th. Plus, what should you prioritize when it comes to curb appeal improvements? And, what's more important; your interest rate or your mortgage loan conditions?
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04/04/2026
Should you buy now with 5% down… or wait to save 20%?
Let’s break it down with real numbers:
Home price: $500,000
Option 1:
• 5% down = $25,000
• Mortgage insurance ≈ $19,000
Option 2:
• Wait 5 ye...
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Should you buy now with 5% down… or wait to save 20%? Let’s break it down with real numbers: Home price: $500,000 Option 1: • 5% down = $25,000 • Mortgage insurance ≈ $19,000 Option 2: • Wait 5 years to save 20% • At 3% appreciation → home = $580,000 💥 That’s an $80,000 increase So you waited to save $19,000… but it cost you $80,000 The real lesson to keep in mind is that trying to “save money” can cost you more if prices keep rising. 📍If you’re buying in Montreal, timing matters more than perfection. Follow for more smart home buying strategies.
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03/04/2026
Thinking of Moving to Montreal? 🍁
Find your dream home here 👉 https://www.ljrealties.com
📱 Call or Text: 514-578-6397
📨 Email: [email protected]
📅 Book a free consultation: https://www.meetwithlj.com/...
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Thinking of Moving to Montreal? 🍁 Find your dream home here 👉 https://www.ljrealties.com 📱 Call or Text: 514-578-6397 📨 Email: [email protected] 📅 Book a free consultation: https://www.meetwithlj.com/ Buying and selling at the same time in Montreal can feel overwhelming and if done wrong, it can cost you thousands. In this video, I break down exactly how to structure your move-up strategy so you can buy your next home without risking your current one. We cover: The biggest mistake move-up buyers make How to calculate your real equity (not guesswork) The 3 ways to structure buying and selling simultaneously When to sell first vs buy first How bridge financing works in Montreal How to align timelines and avoid unnecessary stress If you're planning to upgrade from a condo, duplex, or starter home in Montreal, this is essential. Because the truth is simple: 👉 It’s not about price, it’s about timing and structure. I’m
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02/04/2026
Pricing isn’t just numbers, it’s strategy.
In Montreal, buyers search in exact bands. List just above the right range, and you risk disappearing from serious buyers’ searches.
Spring is hot, but smar...
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Pricing isn’t just numbers, it’s strategy. In Montreal, buyers search in exact bands. List just above the right range, and you risk disappearing from serious buyers’ searches. Spring is hot, but smart pricing drives traffic, momentum, and stronger offers. Thinking of listing? Let’s position your home where buyers are actually looking. 📩 Book a Sellers Strategy Call today and sell smarter, not harder. #MontrealRealEstate #SellingStrategy #RealEstateMarket #LJRealties #LJImmobilier #TeamLJ #EquipeLJ #MontrealRealEstateBrokers #MontrealRealEstateAgency #RealEstateTips
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30/03/2026
In Montreal, the highest offer doesn’t always win.
The cleanest one does.
Certainty is more valueable than price in competitive markets.
If you’re losing, it’s usually structure, not dollars.
👉 Let’s ...
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In Montreal, the highest offer doesn’t always win. The cleanest one does. Certainty is more valueable than price in competitive markets. If you’re losing, it’s usually structure, not dollars. 👉 Let’s build offers that actually get accepted. Thinking of Moving to Montreal? 🍁 Find your dream home here 👉 https://www.ljrealties.com 📱 Call or Text: 514-578-6397 📨 Email: [email protected] 📅 Book a free consultation: https://www.meetwithlj.com/
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29/03/2026
This week on Under One Roof, we're taking a look at the bond yields market, and how this is impacting fixed rate mortgages. Plus, the TAL ruled this week that it's a Charter violation to include "no p...
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This week on Under One Roof, we're taking a look at the bond yields market, and how this is impacting fixed rate mortgages. Plus, the TAL ruled this week that it's a Charter violation to include "no pet" clauses in residential leases. What does this mean for tenants moving forward? LJ also has some advice for homeowners who are planning to sell their home in the next few months, so that they can showcase their home without losing their minds. And, Fred and Martin have some reverse mortgage advice for Canadians retirees.
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28/03/2026
Most people invest in stocks, but real estate investors use leverage, which changes everything.
Here’s the simple comparison:
📈 Stocks
$20,000 invested at 10% annually → about $43K after 8 years
🏡 ...
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Most people invest in stocks, but real estate investors use leverage, which changes everything. Here’s the simple comparison: 📈 Stocks $20,000 invested at 10% annually → about $43K after 8 years 🏡 Real Estate $20,000 used as a down payment on a $400K property If that property appreciates just 3% per year (a long-term historical average): • After 2 years → about $24K in value gained • After 8 years → about $100K in appreciation Why the difference? Because real estate lets you invest with leverage, meaning the bank provides most of the capital. You’re earning appreciation on the entire property value, not just your down payment. That’s one of the main ways regular people build wealth through real estate. Follow for more real estate investing strategies in Montreal and Canada.
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27/03/2026
Thinking of Moving to Montreal? 🍁
Find your dream home here 👉 https://www.ljrealties.com
📱 Call or Text: 514-578-6397
📨 Email: [email protected]
📅 Book a free consultation: https://www.meetwithlj.com/...
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Thinking of Moving to Montreal? 🍁 Find your dream home here 👉 https://www.ljrealties.com 📱 Call or Text: 514-578-6397 📨 Email: [email protected] 📅 Book a free consultation: https://www.meetwithlj.com/ Are you thinking of selling your home this spring? Watch this first. Every year in the Montreal real estate market, sellers make the same costly mistake, they list too high, thinking they can “test the market”… and end up losing tens of thousands. In this video, I break down: Why overpricing your home in spring kills your momentum How buyer psychology actually works in today’s market What happens when your listing sits too long The strategy top real estate agents use to maximize sale price If you're planning to sell your home in Montreal in 2026, this is one of the most important pricing strategies you need to understand. Because the truth is simple: 👉 The best offers don’t come from overpriced listings, they come from momentum. 📅 Thinking of selling this spring? Book a 15-minute strategy call and we’ll map out your pricing, timing, and competition: 👉 https://www.meetwithlj.com/ 📍 I’m
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25/03/2026
🏡 Rent is usually cheaper than buying.
So why do millions of people still choose homeownership?
After 17 years in real estate, I realized the answer isn’t just financial.
Homeownership gives you:
✔...
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🏡 Rent is usually cheaper than buying. So why do millions of people still choose homeownership? After 17 years in real estate, I realized the answer isn’t just financial. Homeownership gives you: ✔ Stability for your family ✔ Control over your living space ✔ Pride in improving something you actually own ✔ The ability to stay in the same community long-term Yes, there are financial benefits (appreciation, equity, tax advantages) but for most homeowners, the real reason is emotional. It’s the feeling of walking through your own front door. If you're thinking about buying a home in Montreal, follow for honest advice about real estate, mortgages, and long-term wealth.
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22/03/2026
Divorce and real estate can create a major financial mistake that damages credit for years and most people don’t realize it until it’s too late.
Here’s the situation:
You and your spouse own a home t...
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Divorce and real estate can create a major financial mistake that damages credit for years and most people don’t realize it until it’s too late. Here’s the situation: You and your spouse own a home together with a $400,000 mortgage. After the divorce, your ex agrees to keep the house and make the payments. But here’s the truth 👇 The bank doesn’t care what your divorce agreement says. If your name is still on the mortgage: • Missed payments hurt your credit score • The lender can still pursue you for the debt • You remain legally responsible for the loan Here are the three real options: 1️⃣ Sell the house and split the proceeds 2️⃣ Refinance the mortgage to remove one borrower 3️⃣ Remove someone from title, but understand they may still be liable for the loan The key lesson: A divorce decree is not the same thing as a mortgage release. If you're navigating divorce and real estate in Montreal, always speak to both a lawyer and mortgage professional. Follow for more real estate strategies and financial tips.
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22/03/2026
This week on Under One Roof, we're taking a look at the inflation numbers for February, and predicting what they might look like in the coming months. Plus, LJ has some advice for anyone who is consid...
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This week on Under One Roof, we're taking a look at the inflation numbers for February, and predicting what they might look like in the coming months. Plus, LJ has some advice for anyone who is considering purchasing property with a friend or family member. And, Fred and Martin offer up suggestions on how to successfully refinance your mortgage with a solid strategy in place.
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20/03/2026
Thinking of Moving to Montreal? 🍁
Find your dream home here 👉 https://www.ljrealties.com
📱 Call or Text: 514-578-6397
📨 Email: [email protected]
📅 Book a free consultation: https://www.meetwithlj.com/...
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Thinking of Moving to Montreal? 🍁 Find your dream home here 👉 https://www.ljrealties.com 📱 Call or Text: 514-578-6397 📨 Email: [email protected] 📅 Book a free consultation: https://www.meetwithlj.com/ Most investors believe that once a building has more than four units, it automatically falls under commercial financing. But in Quebec, that’s not always true. Several lenders will finance 5- to 6-unit buildings under residential lending, and in some cases even up to eight units depending on the investor’s financial profile. That creates a powerful strategy for acquiring value-add multiplexes in markets like Montreal. In this video, I will explain how investors use residential financing to acquire 5- to 8-unit buildings, optimize the property by increasing rents and improving operations, and then transition to commercial financing or CMHC programs once the value has been created. This strategy is commonly used for value-add multiplex investments, where the rents are below market and the property has clear upside. In this breakdown you’ll learn: • Which lenders may finance 5-6 unit buildings residentially (RBC, CIBC, Scotiabank, Desjardins) • When up to 8 units may still qualify under residential financing • How lenders calculate qualification using rental income add-backs • Why this strategy works for value-add multiplex investing • How investors optimize buildings through renovations, tenant turnover, and rent increases • How refinancing works once the property is stabilized • How programs like CMHC MLI Select can help refinance value-add assets For investors targeting Montreal multiplexes, duplexes, triplexes, or small apartment buildings, understanding this strategy can unlock opportunities that traditional underwriting would miss. If you’re looking to acquire a value-add multiplex in Montreal, book a call with me and we can analyze potential deals together. Subscribe for more Montreal real estate investing breakdowns.
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