Sources & Methodology
Transparency matters. Here's where our data comes from and how we analyze Montreal real estate market information.
Our Commitment
When we reference market data, we cite sources. When we make claims, we explain the context and assumptions. If something is our opinion or interpretation, we say so clearly. This page documents our primary data sources and analytical approach.
Primary Data Sources
Greater Montreal Real Estate Board (GMREB)
Official MLS statistics for Montreal and surrounding areas. We use their monthly reports for inventory levels, median prices, days on market, and sales volumes. Data is typically published within 5-7 days after month-end. Visit GMREB
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
National housing data, rental market reports, and housing starts information. We reference their quarterly market reports and annual rental market surveys for vacancy rates and rental price trends. Visit CMHC
Bank of Canada
Interest rate decisions, economic indicators, and monetary policy statements that affect mortgage rates and borrowing conditions. Visit Bank of Canada
Statistics Canada
Census data, population trends, household income statistics, and demographic information used for neighborhood analysis. Visit Statistics Canada
Ville de Montreal Open Data
Municipal property assessment data, building permits, zoning information, and neighborhood boundaries. Visit Montreal Open Data
Methodology
Market Trend Analysis
We track month-over-month and year-over-year changes in inventory, pricing, and sales velocity. When we identify trends, we look for:
- Consistency across multiple data points (not isolated spikes)
- Context relative to seasonal patterns
- Comparison to historical averages (5-year and 10-year)
- Neighborhood-level variation within broader market trends
Neighborhood Profiles
Our neighborhood analysis combines quantitative data (pricing, inventory, walk scores) with qualitative research (character, amenities, buyer profiles). We visit neighborhoods in person, speak with local agents, and review municipal planning documents.
Calculator Assumptions
Our tools use the following default assumptions, which you can adjust:
- Mortgage stress test: Qualification rate 2% above contract rate or 5.25%, whichever is higher (current OSFI rule)
- Property transfer tax (welcome tax): Quebec's progressive rate structure based on purchase price
- Closing costs: 3-4% of purchase price including legal, inspection, land transfer, insurance
- Rental vacancy rate: 2-4% annual vacancy assumption for investment properties
- Property appreciation: 2-4% annual average (long-term historical Montreal average)
What We Don't Do
To maintain credibility, we avoid:
- Making specific price predictions or forecasts
- Recommending timing decisions ("now is the time to buy")
- Cherry-picking data to support predetermined narratives
- Presenting correlation as causation without explanation
- Claiming certainty where uncertainty exists
Limitations
All market data has limitations. MLS data represents reported sales, not all transactions. Government data has reporting lags. Our analysis reflects information available at time of publication. Markets change, and past performance doesn't guarantee future results.
Updates & Corrections
If we identify an error in our analysis or data, we correct it promptly and note the correction. If you spot something that looks wrong, please contact us.
Questions?
If you have questions about our sources, methodology, or want to understand how we arrived at a specific conclusion, reach out. We're happy to explain our work.