In a city known for its diversity and cultural richness, some of Montreal’s most cherished neighborhoods are experiencing a dramatic shift in their real estate markets. Areas that were once seen as affordable havens for new immigrants and working-class families like Parc-Extension are now facing steep increases in property prices, making homeownership a challenging prospect.

The Economic Shift

In the past, neighborhoods like Parc-Extension offered a more accessible entry point into the housing market, attracting a diverse mix of residents with its relatively low-cost housing options. However, the landscape is changing rapidly. As of July 2024, the average price for a home in these areas has surged to around $533,100. This means that potential buyers now need an annual income of approximately $109,170 to afford a property, taking into account a mortgage rate of 5.29% and a stress test rate of 7.29%.

This increase in the required income marks a significant departure from previous years, reflecting broader trends across Montreal, where rising property values and higher interest rates are creating barriers for those looking to buy a home.

Financial Challenges and Market Dynamics

The calculations for buying a home in these evolving neighborhoods assume a 20% down payment, a 25-year amortization period, and additional costs like property taxes and heating. For many residents, especially those in lower-income brackets or new to the country, meeting these financial demands is becoming increasingly difficult.

Furthermore, for buyers unable to make a 20% down payment, the overall cost of purchasing a home increases due to the need for mortgage insurance premiums. This additional expense raises the required income to secure a mortgage, placing homeownership even further out of reach for many.

These financial pressures are not only a challenge for new buyers but also for long-standing residents who may be feeling the effects of gentrification. As more affluent individuals move into these neighborhoods, property values — and therefore property taxes — continue to rise, potentially displacing those who have lived there for years.

A Citywide Trend

What’s happening in these neighborhoods is part of a larger pattern affecting the entire city. Montreal, once known for its relatively affordable housing compared to other major Canadian cities, is now seeing price increases across multiple districts. This trend is pushing middle- and lower-income families further from the urban core, making it more difficult for them to stay in the city. While certain areas remain more affordable than Montreal’s more upscale neighborhoods, the difference in price is shrinking. The rise in housing costs in these traditionally more accessible areas is indicative of the broader economic pressures facing Montrealers.