September 2026 Montreal Real Estate Market Update: More Listings, Fewer Sales and a Changing Market

The Montreal real estate market continued to move toward more balanced conditions in September 2026. Buyers had more properties to choose from, while sellers faced a market in which pricing, presentation and preparation increasingly mattered.

According to the Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers (QPAREB), residential sales across the Montreal Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) declined by approximately 12% compared with September 2025. Meanwhile, the supply of properties for sale continued to increase, extending a trend that had lasted 14 consecutive months. Inventory was 18% above its 10-year average. (Source: QPAREB, September 2026 statistics)

These figures do not mean that Montreal real estate has suddenly become a buyer's market everywhere. Conditions vary considerably depending on the property type, price range and neighbourhood. Some well-priced homes can still attract strong interest, while other properties may take longer to sell and require sellers to adjust their expectations.

For buyers, sellers and homeowners across Montreal and the surrounding suburbs, September's results offer useful insight into how to approach the market heading into the final months of 2026.

Montreal Real Estate Market at a Glance: September 2026

The latest Centris statistics highlight three important developments: fewer transactions, more properties available for sale and different performance across property categories.

Across the Montreal CMA:

• Residential sales: Approximately 3,082 transactions, down 12% year over year.
• New listings: 7,494 properties entered the market, up approximately 7% year over year.
• Active listings: Approximately 21,793 properties were available, an increase of 20% year over year.
• Sales volume: Approximately $2.11 billion, down 11% year over year.

These figures come from the QPAREB's September 2026 monthly statistics, based on the Centris system. <Cite refs={["turn988094view0"]}/>

The combination of declining sales and rising inventory is important. Buyers generally have more choice than they did when listings were scarcer, and sellers may face more competition for attention.

However, market-wide statistics should not be interpreted as a prediction for every property. A renovated home in a sought-after neighbourhood may perform differently from a property requiring substantial work or one priced above comparable listings.

For a broader explanation of how sales, inventory and prices interact, see The Montreal Real Estate Market Explained.

Why Are Montreal Home Sales Slowing?

September's decline in sales suggests that buyers are taking a more measured approach to purchasing real estate.

A lower number of transactions does not, by itself, explain why buyers are hesitating. Affordability, financing conditions, household budgets, available inventory and confidence in future prices can all influence purchasing decisions. The September figures establish the slowdown, but they do not prove that any single factor is responsible.

The increase in available properties is also changing the experience of shopping for a home. When buyers have more alternatives, they can compare features, condition and asking prices more carefully rather than feeling compelled to act immediately.

For sellers, this means that a listing can no longer rely solely on limited competition to attract offers. Buyers may be more willing to visit several properties, negotiate conditions or wait for a better fit.

What this means for buyers

The current environment may offer buyers more opportunities to conduct due diligence and compare alternatives.

Practical steps include:

• Compare recent sales of genuinely similar properties, not just asking prices.
• Review how long comparable listings have been on the market.
• Establish a realistic budget that includes closing costs and future maintenance.
• Arrange appropriate inspections and review relevant property documents.
• Avoid assuming that every seller is willing to negotiate simply because overall sales have declined.

More choice can improve a buyer's position, but the best strategy remains property-specific. A desirable home priced appropriately can still attract competing offers.

What this means for sellers

Sellers should pay particular attention to the initial asking price.

When inventory increases, an overpriced property risks being overlooked while buyers explore competing listings. Reducing the price later may still produce a sale, but it can mean losing valuable time and missing buyers who were active when the property first appeared on the market.

A comparative market analysis based on recent local transactions can help establish a realistic price range before listing.

September 2026 Prices: A Closer Look at Property Types

The Montreal market is not one uniform market. Detached houses, condominiums and plexes serve different buyers and investors, and their September results were not identical.

The QPAREB's September statistics reported the following median prices and year-over-year changes for the Montreal CMA. <Cite refs={["turn988094view0"]}/>

Median prices represent the midpoint of properties sold during a period. They do not mean that every home in that category is worth the median amount, and changes in the mix of properties sold can influence the results.

Single-family homes: More choice, but location still matters

The median price of a single-family home was $635,000 in September, broadly stable compared with a year earlier. There were 1,649 sales in this category, down approximately 9% year over year, while active listings rose by about 21%.

For buyers, the increase in available listings may create more opportunities to compare homes and negotiate where a property has been on the market for some time.

For sellers, condition, location and pricing remain essential. Properties with deferred maintenance or ambitious asking prices may face more resistance when buyers have alternatives.

Condominiums: A market where comparison matters

The median condominium price was $430,000, unchanged year over year. Sales declined by approximately 14%, to 1,081 transactions, while active listings increased by about 19%.

This combination suggests that condominium buyers have more options to consider. It also makes it particularly important to assess the financial and physical condition of a building rather than focusing only on the individual unit.

Before purchasing a condo, review the declaration of co-ownership, financial statements, reserve fund information, meeting minutes, insurance arrangements and any known or anticipated major repairs. Condo fees and the possibility of special assessments can materially affect the cost of ownership.

For more detailed guidance, see Montreal Condo Market Explained.

Plexes: Median prices remain higher than a year ago

Plexes with two to five units recorded a median price of $861,000 in September, up approximately 3% year over year. There were 350 transactions, down about 16%, while active listings increased by approximately 20%.

Plexes remain a distinct segment because their value depends not only on the building itself, but also on rental income, expenses, maintenance requirements and applicable tenancy rules.

Investors should evaluate the property's actual income and operating costs rather than assuming that a higher median price guarantees a strong return. Owner-occupants considering a duplex or triplex should also account for the affordability implications of living in one unit while renting the others.

For a more detailed discussion of investment considerations, see Best Areas in Montreal for Real Estate Investment.

Is Montreal Becoming a Buyer's Market?

September's figures support the view that market conditions are becoming more balanced, but the answer depends on the location and property category.

A buyer's market generally describes conditions in which supply is relatively high compared with demand, giving buyers greater negotiating power. A seller's market is more commonly associated with limited inventory and strong competition among purchasers. A balanced market falls between these conditions.

The increase in active listings across the Montreal CMA, combined with lower sales, suggests that buyers have gained some leverage compared with periods of tighter supply. The QPAREB also reported that overall inventory was 18% above its 10-year average. <Cite refs={["turn976131view0"]}/>

Nevertheless, a regional average can conceal significant differences.

For example, a property in a highly sought-after area may continue to sell quickly if it is priced correctly and offers features that buyers value. Another property in the same broad region may attract little interest because of its condition, layout, price or location.

Rather than asking whether all of Montreal is a buyer's or seller's market, buyers and sellers should examine the conditions for their particular property type and neighbourhood.

What Should Montreal Home Sellers Do This Fall?

The autumn market can still provide opportunities for sellers, but preparation and realistic expectations are important.

Price according to current competition

Review recent comparable sales, but also examine properties that are currently for sale. Sold listings help establish what buyers have actually paid, while active listings show what buyers are comparing your home against today.

A price based on last year's market may no longer be appropriate if competing inventory has increased or buyer activity has weakened.

Make the property easy to evaluate

Buyers need to understand the condition, layout and value of a home. Addressing visible maintenance issues, improving lighting, decluttering and presenting rooms clearly can help make a property more appealing.

It is also useful to prepare relevant documentation, including renovation records, warranties, property tax information and any available inspection reports.

For seasonal maintenance ideas, see Fall Home Maintenance Checklist for Montreal Homeowners.

Evaluate offers beyond the purchase price

The highest offer is not automatically the strongest offer. Financing conditions, inspection clauses, the proposed closing date and the buyer's ability to complete the transaction can all matter.

A careful review of the full terms can help sellers compare offers more effectively.

What Should Buyers Do Before Making an Offer?

A market with more listings can encourage buyers to take their time, but preparation is still essential.

Get financing in order

Understand your purchasing budget and obtain appropriate mortgage pre-approval before making an offer. Pre-approval can help clarify your price range, although it is not a guarantee of final mortgage approval.

Compare similar properties

Look at recent sales with comparable location, size, condition and features. A property's asking price is not proof of its market value.

Review the documents

Depending on the property, relevant documents may include the certificate of location, inspection reports, permits for renovations, title information and, for a condominium, co-ownership records and financial documents.

Avoid waiting for a market-wide price drop

It is difficult to predict exactly when prices will rise or fall. Waiting can make sense when a property does not meet your needs or when your finances are not ready. However, delaying a purchase solely because you expect a broad price decline can mean missing a suitable property.

The better approach is to make a decision based on affordability, long-term plans and the value of the specific property.

For buyers who are beginning the process, see Complete Guide to Buying Real Estate in Montreal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Current Market

Both buyers and sellers can misread a changing market. A few common mistakes are worth avoiding.

Assuming that all prices are falling. September's median prices were broadly stable for single-family homes and condos compared with a year earlier, while plex prices increased. Individual properties can still behave differently from these overall figures.

Confusing more listings with guaranteed bargains. More inventory creates choice, but a well-priced property in good condition may remain competitive.

Pricing a home based on emotional value. Sellers should consider comparable sales and current competition rather than relying only on renovation costs or personal attachment.

Ignoring carrying costs. Buyers should account for mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance and, where applicable, condo fees.

Treating regional statistics as a personal valuation. A median price describes the middle of a group of transactions. It does not determine the value of a specific property.

Frequently Asked Questions About the September 2026 Montreal Real Estate Market

Are Montreal house prices falling in September 2026?

The median price of single-family homes across the Montreal CMA was $635,000 in September 2026, broadly unchanged year over year. The median condo price was $430,000, also unchanged, while the median plex price rose approximately 3% to $861,000. Individual neighbourhoods and properties may perform differently.

Are there more homes for sale in Montreal?

Yes. Active listings across the Montreal CMA increased by approximately 20% year over year in September 2026. The QPAREB also reported that overall inventory was 18% above its 10-year average.

Is now a good time to buy a home in Montreal?

It can be a reasonable time to buy if your finances are prepared and you find a property that meets your needs at a price supported by comparable sales. Increased inventory may provide more choice, but the right decision depends on your circumstances and the specific property.

Is now a good time to sell a home in Montreal?

Selling can still make sense, but sellers should be realistic about pricing and competition. A well-prepared property, priced in line with current market evidence, is generally better positioned than one priced based on outdated expectations.

What does the September market mean for Montreal condo buyers?

Condominium sales declined by approximately 14% year over year, while active listings increased by about 19%. Buyers may have more units to compare, making it especially important to review building finances, maintenance plans, condo fees and potential special assessments.

Do Montreal real estate market statistics apply to every neighbourhood?

No. The Montreal CMA includes a broad metropolitan area, and results vary by neighbourhood, property type, price range and condition. Local comparable sales are more useful for evaluating a particular property than regional figures alone.

Final Thoughts: A More Selective Montreal Real Estate Market

September 2026 reinforces the direction the Montreal real estate market has been moving: fewer sales, more listings and a growing need to assess each property on its own merits.

The market-wide figures show that residential sales declined by approximately 12% year over year, while active listings rose by approximately 20%. Median prices varied by property type, remaining broadly stable for single-family homes and condominiums while increasing for plexes.

For buyers, a larger selection can create opportunities to compare properties carefully, negotiate where appropriate and conduct thorough due diligence. For sellers, it makes accurate pricing, thoughtful preparation and an understanding of competing listings more important.

Neither group should rely on a single headline statistic to make a decision. The best approach is to look at recent transactions and current competition in the relevant neighbourhood, consider the property's condition and costs, and align the decision with realistic financial and personal goals.

As Montreal moves further into the autumn market, local conditions will remain more useful than broad assumptions. A property-specific assessment can help buyers decide what to offer and help sellers establish a strategy grounded in current evidence.

If you're thinking about buying or selling real estate in Montreal or anywhere in Quebec, I'd be happy to help. Call me at 514-777-1535 or email Christopher@CCMRealty.ca to discuss your real estate goals.