Curfew and Containment : No break for Montreal real estate
Remember the summer of 2020. It was still possible to have a drink in good company on the terrace of the new condo on the Plateau-Mont-Royal. The fall foliage was also synonymous with an increase in COVID-19 cases around the world. Although the government has put in place several measures to curb the spread, hospitals are now overwhelmed and the number of positive tests is increasing. On January 7, 2021, François Legault announced the application of a curfew. It will now be impossible for Quebecers to walk in the streets between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m., under penalty of a hefty fine ranging from $1000 to $6000. In this post, we explain the details of this curfew that applies to the four corners of the province and its impact on the real estate market.
Daily travel.
During rush hour, it will still be possible to move around the streets without constraint. Whether you want to run or simply take a walk to discover the beautiful houses of Outremont or the Plateau-Mont-Royal, you will be free to move around. After 8:00 p.m., you will not be able to go out anymore, since the curfew will be in effect. Want to get some fresh air or have a cigarette? You will have to do so on your terrace if you feel the need.
Exception for the curfew.
Of course, there are some exceptions in the application of the regulations put in place by the government authorities.
- For essential workers, it will be possible to move around during the curfew, it is, however, essential that you have a form signed by your employer at hand.
- For pet owners, it will also be possible to walk your cat or dog near your home.
- If you need to pick up medication, it will be possible to do so, as pharmacies will continue to sell and dispense medication after 8:00 p.m. We strongly recommend that you have your bill close by.
- In the event that your safety or integrity is in danger, it will always be possible to leave your home.
Real estate and the curfew: What impact on the market?
For buyers or sellers of houses, duplexes, cottages or condos, rest assured. It will always be possible to carry out your real estate transactions.
The free visits allowed in spite of everything.
For those who were planning to visit a property after January 9, it will still be possible, within the curfew hours. The OACIQ, the self-regulatory organization of real estate brokerage in Quebec, believes that the organization of open houses is prohibited. Whenever possible, it is preferable to use virtual visits instead.
Read our file on real estate and COVID-19, to know my recommendations for a safe real estate transaction.
The premises of the real estate agencies closed.
At the end of 2020, the Legault government ordered the closure of real estate offices in order to favour telecommuting. These offices will not be able to open until February 8, 2021.
The real estate market is changing, my advice, make sure you are well accompanied!
With the new regulations put in place by the government, real estate in Montreal is changing. For your next real estate transaction, choose an experienced person who knows how to adapt to the unexpected. Since 2001, I have helped hundreds of individuals find their dream home. If you want to buy or sell a house or condo in Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, Outremont, Villeray, Rosemont or anywhere in the Greater Montreal area, contact me, it will be my pleasure to help you.
