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Find your place in Montreal with a local home finder

For students, companies and professionals, all over the world.

Remoters puts you in touch with a home finder living there, who speaks your language, searches to your criteria, views on your behalf and stays with you through to the signed lease.

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Your home finder, on site
An English-speaking home finder, based on site

They know the neighbourhoods, the rents and how the local market works, and they speak your language.

Shortlists properties and visits them for you

Listings, agencies, local network: they shortlist to your criteria and view properties on your behalf.

Backs your application and negotiates the lease

They present your application to the landlord and negotiate the lease terms for you.

Every step protected, no hidden surprises

Verified home, lease reviewed, secure payment: you sign knowing exactly what you are getting.

5,000+ clients supported
★★★★★ 4.8/5 on Google, 1,100+ reviews
220+ cities
60+ countries

What does a home finder actually do?

Six missions, from the first brief to key handover.

Illustration: scoping the search

They scope your search

Real budget, viable neighbourhoods, size, life constraints. The brief is written before the first listing — that's what saves three months of pointless viewings.

Illustration: local market specialist

They comb the whole market

Portals, local agencies, private landlords: your home finder checks every new listing daily and contacts agencies on your behalf, so nothing slips through.

Illustration: viewings and neighbourhoods

They visit for you

Filmed viewings, an honest report, walks through the neighbourhood at different hours. You no longer need to travel: your home finder does it all for you remotely.

Illustration: price negotiation

They assess and negotiate

Local rent levels, service charges, the state of the property, lease length. Concrete arguments to negotiate the terms — on your side, this time.

Illustration: securing the application

They secure the application

Locally required documents, guarantor, translation, review of the lease and the inventory. This is where foreign applications most often fall apart.

Illustration: saving time when settling in

They stay with you until you're settled in

Inventory, key handover, utilities set-up, first admin steps. Your home finder doesn't disappear once the contract is signed: they remain a valuable contact for any questions about life on the ground.

What you get

Safety

No scams, verified homes, secure payment.

Speed

A home found in a few weeks.

Human

Guided by a local home finder, in your language.

Peace of mind

Everything handled remotely, stress-free.

How it works

Four steps, from your request to the signed lease.

1

We get acquainted

You start by filling in a short questionnaire to tell us a bit more about your search.

2

Free first call

One of our home finders then takes over and contacts you for a free first conversation. The goal? Understanding exactly what you need.

3

The adventure begins

If it clicks and you want to move forward, you receive a tailored quote. Once approved, the search begins!

4

Heading to your new home

Your home finder searches for you, shares their finds, stays with you through to signing the lease — all that’s left is packing your bags.

I describe my search

Why us

Join a community of happy clients.

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Montreal
Montreal is the largest city in Quebec and a major North American metropolis, offering a distinctive bilingual (French-English) environment, a rich cultural scene, and a competitive long-term rental market. The island-wide average rent reached approximately 1,639 CAD/month in Q1 2024 (source: Centris/Zipplex), with one-bedroom apartments averaging around 1,423 CAD/month for new listings. The city is organised into 19 boroughs, with neighbourhoods such as Plateau-Mont-Royal, Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie, and Villeray being particularly popular among long-term renters. Quebec's rental market is governed by the Civil Code of Quebec and overseen by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL), which provides strong tenant protections and mandates the use of a standard lease form. A key local feature is the July 1 moving day tradition, when the vast majority of Quebec leases turn over simultaneously, making early preparation essential for anyone planning to rent in Montreal.

In short: Montreal is an affordable, bilingual, and culturally vibrant city with a well-regulated long-term rental market. Average rents range from approximately 1,200 CAD/month for a studio to 2,300 CAD/month or more for a two-bedroom in a central neighbourhood (sources: Centris/Zipplex Q1 2024, Zumper 2024). The rental process is governed by Quebec's Civil Code and the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL), which mandates a standard lease form and strong tenant protections. Most leases in Quebec start on July 1 — plan your search accordingly. Key neighbourhoods for long-term renters include Plateau-Mont-Royal, Rosemont, Villeray, NDG, and Griffintown, each offering a different balance of price, lifestyle, and transit access.

Montreal is consistently ranked among the best cities in North America for quality of life, affordability, and cultural richness. As the largest city in Quebec and the second-largest in Canada, it offers a unique blend of French and English cultures, a vibrant arts scene, and a strong sense of neighbourhood identity.

  • Bilingual environment: Montreal is officially a French-speaking city, but a large proportion of residents are bilingual or English-speaking, making it accessible to newcomers from around the world.
  • Cultural life: The city hosts world-renowned festivals including the Montreal International Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs, Osheaga, and Francos de Montréal, alongside a thriving local arts, food, and nightlife scene.
  • Universities and education: Montreal is home to four major universities — McGill, Université de Montréal, Concordia, and UQAM — making it a hub for students and young professionals.
  • Public transport: The STM metro network (4 lines, 68 stations) and an extensive bus network provide reliable access across the island without a car.
  • Green spaces: Parc du Mont-Royal, Parc La Fontaine, Parc Maisonneuve, and the Lachine Canal offer exceptional outdoor spaces within the urban fabric.
  • Relative affordability: Compared to Toronto or Vancouver, Montreal offers significantly lower rental costs for comparable living standards, making it attractive for long-term residents and newcomers alike.

Living in Montreal on a day-to-day basis is shaped by the city's bilingual character, its distinct seasonal rhythms, and its strong neighbourhood culture. Here is what to expect practically as a long-term resident:

  • Language: French is the official language of Quebec and the primary language of daily life in most Montreal neighbourhoods. English is widely spoken in central and western areas (Downtown, NDG, Westmount, the Plateau). Learning basic French will significantly improve your experience and is often expected by landlords and service providers.
  • Transport: The STM metro (4 lines, 68 stations) and bus network cover most of the island. A monthly STM pass costs approximately 100 CAD/month for adults (reduced rates for students under 25). The BIXI bike-sharing system is widely used from spring to autumn.
  • Groceries and daily costs: Montreal has a wide range of supermarkets (IGA, Metro, Provigo, Maxi) and local markets including the Jean-Talon Market and the Atwater Market. Daily living costs are moderate by North American standards.
  • Healthcare: Quebec has a public health insurance system (RAMQ). New residents must register and may face a waiting period before coverage begins. Private health insurance is recommended during this period.
  • Winter: Montreal winters are long and cold, with temperatures regularly dropping below -15°C. Heating costs are a significant budget item unless included in your rent. The city's underground network (RÉSO) connects major Downtown buildings and metro stations, allowing residents to navigate the centre without going outside.
  • Community life: Montreal's boroughs each have a strong local identity, with neighbourhood associations, community gardens, and local festivals. Getting involved in your local community is one of the best ways to settle in quickly.

Montreal's long-term rental market is one of the most active in Canada, driven by a large student population, significant immigration, and a strong culture of renting rather than owning. According to CMHC data, the Montreal metropolitan area had a vacancy rate of approximately 2.2% in 2024, indicating a tight market with limited availability of affordable units.

The market is characterised by a high proportion of purpose-built rental buildings, many of which are older stock (pre-1980s) offering larger floor plans at relatively competitive rents. Newer developments in areas like Griffintown and the Sud-Ouest have added modern rental inventory, but at higher price points. Demand is particularly strong for one- and two-bedroom units in central neighbourhoods served by the STM metro network.

A distinctive feature of the Montreal rental market is the July 1 moving day tradition: the vast majority of leases in Quebec begin and end on July 1, creating a concentrated period of high demand and limited supply each summer. Renters relocating to Montreal should plan their search and move-in date with this cycle in mind. Platforms such as Kijiji, Centris, and liv.rent are among the most widely used for finding long-term rental listings in the city.

Montreal is divided into 19 boroughs, each with distinct neighbourhoods offering different rental environments, price points, and lifestyles. Here is an overview of the most sought-after areas for long-term renters:

  • Plateau-Mont-Royal: One of Montreal's most iconic neighbourhoods, known for its colourful duplexes, vibrant café culture, and proximity to Parc La Fontaine and Parc du Mont-Royal. Rents are above the city average, reflecting high demand.
  • Mile End: A creative, multicultural neighbourhood popular with artists, tech workers, and young professionals. Home to independent boutiques, bagel shops, and a lively restaurant scene.
  • Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie: A family-friendly borough with a strong local identity, green spaces, and the Jean-Talon Market. Rents are more moderate than the Plateau, making it a popular choice for long-term renters seeking value.
  • Griffintown / Sud-Ouest: A rapidly developing area with modern rental buildings, proximity to the Lachine Canal, and easy access to Downtown. Popular with young professionals.
  • Notre-Dame-de-Grâce (NDG): A residential, family-oriented neighbourhood in the west of the island, with a strong English-speaking community and good schools.
  • Villeray: A quieter, predominantly French-speaking neighbourhood with affordable rents, good metro access (Orange Line), and a growing food and culture scene.
  • Hochelaga-Maisonneuve (HoMa): One of the more affordable central neighbourhoods, undergoing gradual revitalisation. Close to Parc Maisonneuve and the Olympic Stadium.
  • Verdun: A riverside neighbourhood with a strong community feel, riverfront parks, and improving amenities. Rents have risen in recent years but remain competitive.
  • Outremont: A quieter, upscale neighbourhood known for its quality of life, tree-lined streets, and proximity to Université de Montréal.

Montreal remains one of the most affordable major cities in Canada for long-term renters. While rents have risen steadily over recent years — the island-wide average reached 1,639 CAD/month in Q1 2024 (source: Centris/Zipplex) — they remain well below comparable rates in Toronto or Vancouver. A realistic monthly rental budget for a single person renting a one-bedroom apartment in a central neighbourhood falls between 1,400 CAD/month and 1,900 CAD/month. Couples or small families seeking a two-bedroom should plan for 1,700 CAD/month to 2,400 CAD/month depending on the area.

In addition to rent, tenants should budget for electricity (billed separately in most modern buildings), internet (typically 60–90 CAD/month), and tenant insurance (around 15–30 CAD/month). In many older Montréal apartments — known locally as logements — heating and hot water are included in the rent, which can represent a significant saving during the long Quebec winters.

Rental prices in Montreal vary significantly depending on the neighbourhood, apartment size, and whether the unit is furnished or unfurnished. According to data published by Centris in collaboration with Zipplex for Q1 2024, the average rent on the Island of Montreal reached 1,639 CAD/month across all unit types, representing a year-over-year increase of approximately 17.85%. Newly listed units on the market averaged 1,423 CAD/month for a one-bedroom, 1,803 CAD/month for a two-bedroom, and 2,143 CAD/month for a three-bedroom apartment (source: Centris/Zipplex, Q1 2024).

More recent data from Zumper (2024–2025) places the median rent for a studio around 1,500 CAD/month, a one-bedroom around 1,810 CAD/month, and a two-bedroom around 2,300 CAD/month. Premium neighbourhoods such as Vieux-Montréal or Downtown command higher rents, while more affordable areas like Hochelaga-Maisonneuve or Montréal-Nord offer lower monthly costs. Utilities (electricity, heating) are sometimes included in the rent in older buildings, which can meaningfully affect the total monthly budget.

When searching for a long-term rental in Montreal, several common mistakes can slow down your search or put your application at a disadvantage:

  • Starting the search too late: The Montreal rental market is competitive, particularly around the traditional lease renewal date of July 1. Begin your search at least 2–3 months in advance.
  • Ignoring the lease transfer (cession de bail) rules: Quebec's Bill 31 (2024) significantly restricted lease transfers. Do not assume you can take over an existing lease without the landlord's consent.
  • Underestimating the rental file (dossier locatif): Many landlords in Montreal require a credit check, proof of income, employment letter, and references from previous landlords. Arriving without these documents will cost you time and opportunities.
  • Overlooking utility costs: Not all Montreal apartments include heating or electricity. Always clarify what is included before signing.
  • Confusing furnished and unfurnished listings: Most long-term rentals in Montreal are unfurnished. Furnished units are available but at a premium and are more common in short-term or corporate rental segments.
  • Neglecting neighbourhood research: Montreal's boroughs differ greatly in terms of language environment, transit access, and rental price. Visiting in person before committing is strongly recommended.
  • Not reading the standard Quebec lease form: Quebec uses a mandatory standard lease form (bail type) issued by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). Any clause that contradicts tenant rights under the Civil Code of Quebec is unenforceable.
  • Start early: Begin your search at least 2–3 months before your intended move-in date. The market is most competitive in May and June ahead of the July 1 lease cycle.
  • Prepare a complete rental file: Have your credit report, proof of income, employment letter, and previous landlord references ready before you start visiting apartments. A well-prepared dossier locatif significantly improves your chances.
  • Understand what is included in the rent: Always ask whether heating, hot water, and parking are included. In older Montreal buildings, these are often bundled into the rent; in newer developments, they are typically billed separately.
  • Use the TAL rent registry: The City of Montreal has created an optional rent registry. Use it to check the rent history of a unit before signing, and to verify whether a proposed rent increase is justified.
  • Read the standard Quebec lease carefully: The mandatory bail type form protects tenants, but you must understand your rights and obligations. Pay particular attention to clauses on rent increases, subletting, and lease renewal.
  • Visit in person when possible: Montreal's neighbourhoods vary enormously in atmosphere, noise levels, and transit access. A visit at different times of day will give you a much more accurate picture than photos alone.
  • Check STM metro access: Proximity to the Orange or Green Line metro significantly affects daily commute times and quality of life. Use the STM trip planner to assess transit options from any address you are considering.
  • Budget for tenant insurance: While not legally mandatory in Quebec, tenant insurance (assurance locataire) is strongly recommended and typically costs between 15 CAD/month and 30 CAD/month.

Finding a long-term rental in Montreal from abroad — or while managing a relocation — can be complex and time-consuming. Remoters offers a dedicated rental search support service to help you navigate the Montreal market efficiently: identifying suitable listings, preparing your rental file, coordinating viewings, and guiding you through the Quebec lease process.

Whether you are relocating for work, studies, or a lifestyle change, having local expertise on your side can make the difference between a stressful search and a smooth move. Remoters connects you with professionals who know the Montreal rental market, understand the specificities of Quebec tenancy law, and can support you from your first search to the signing of your lease.

What our clients say

Mathilde
Corinne
Mathilde
Mathilde de Remoters was absolutely fantastic. She was able to select apartments perfectly suited to our needs and met all our expectations with great responsiveness. We were looking for an apartment for our son who is moving to Montreal, while we live on the other side of the world. This did not slow down Mathilde at all, who remained in constant contact with us and communicated in a smooth and efficient manner. I highly recommend Remoters, and especially Mathilde, if you are looking for a place to rent.
Mathilde
Alphonse
Mathilde
First experience with a home finder abroad, Mathilde was perfect from the first contact to after the keys were handed over. Professional and attentive, and very pleasant to deal with on a human level during our multiple interactions, she found the apartment we were looking for in terms of budget, neighborhood and characteristics. She very effectively acted as an intermediary with the agency and a very demanding landlord, and I highly recommend Mathilde to anyone serious about getting customized support for their apartment search in Montreal.
Vanessa
Agathe
Vanessa
Thanks a lot to Vanessa for her help and enthusiasm :)
Delphine
Fabrice
Delphine
Pure efficiency, thank you to you and your explanations.

Every residential lease must be written on the official form of the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL); any other document can be challenged. No deposit can be required: the landlord may only ask for the first month's rent at signing. Most leases renew on 1 July. A written, signed check-in inventory is not compulsory, but it avoids disputes when you move out.

A physical viewing needs to take place before you sign: booking a home remotely without one exposes you to scams, which are common on general platforms such as Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace. The viewing is also where heating, insulation and damp get checked. If you are still abroad, your home finder views for you and sends you photos, video and detailed feedback.

References (a former landlord or employer), ID and your date of birth for the credit check. They are not allowed to require your social insurance number, payslips or a bank statement, or to keep a copy of your ID. Without a Canadian credit history, offering a guarantor or solid proof of income strengthens your application.

On average, a 3½ (one bedroom) costs 1,423 CAD a month, a 4½ (two bedrooms) 1,803 CAD and a 5½ (three bedrooms) 2,143 CAD, according to Centris/Zipplex. Studios start at around 1,000 to 1,200 CAD in outlying areas. Montréal-Nord, Anjou and Rivière-des-Prairies are the cheapest; Outremont, Ville-Marie and the Plateau-Mont-Royal the most expensive. In older plexes, heating is often included.

A rental search in Montreal usually costs between €400 and €750: the range we have seen across the searches carried out in Montreal since February 2025. The exact price depends on your search; your home finder sets it in a written quote, free and with no commitment.

You pay online through the platform, never directly to the home finder. The security deposit and local fees (agency, check-in inventory) are not included.

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