A Guide to Up-and-Coming Neighbourhoods That Are Perfect for First-Time Buyers
Buying your first home is an exciting and often daunting experience, especially in a city like Montreal, where the real estate market can feel overwhelming. With so many diverse neighbourhoods to choose from, it’s essential to find the right balance of affordability, convenience, and community—especially when you’re just starting out.
Luckily, Montreal is home to several up-and-coming neighbourhoods that provide excellent opportunities for first-time homebuyers. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or simply looking for a vibrant community to settle into, there’s something for everyone. In this post, we’ll dive into some of the best neighbourhoods for first-time buyers, including Verdun, Rosemont, and Ahuntsic-Cartierville—three areas that are making waves for all the right reasons.
1. Verdun: A Hidden Gem with Waterfront Views
Located along the St. Lawrence River, Verdun is an increasingly popular neighbourhood for young buyers looking for an affordable home without sacrificing proximity to downtown. Just a 15-minute metro ride from the city centre, Verdun offers an ideal balance of urban convenience and suburban charm.
Why Verdun Works for First-Time Homebuyers:
- Affordability: Verdun is still more affordable than many of Montreal’s more central neighbourhoods, like the Plateau or Outremont. You can find charming homes, spacious condos, and even duplexes at a fraction of the price compared to other parts of the island.
- Public Transit: The Verdun Metro station is part of the Green Line, offering quick access to downtown Montreal. This is a huge draw for people who want to be close to the action but prefer quieter, more relaxed surroundings to call home.
- Community and Amenities: Verdun is full of parks, green spaces, and waterfront access, which is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The vibrant Wellington Street offers everything from trendy cafés to local boutiques, making it an excellent place to live and socialize. Additionally, Verdun is known for being a family-friendly neighbourhood with a growing number of daycare centers and schools.
What to Look for: Verdun is still undergoing gentrification, meaning it’s a great time to buy before property values rise even further. Consider looking at properties near the waterfront for added value or finding a duplex or triplex that could generate rental income.
2. Rosemont: A Neighbourhood That Has It All
Rosemont is often considered one of Montreal’s best-kept secrets, but more and more first-time buyers are beginning to take notice. With its mix of residential tranquility, bustling commercial strips, and easy access to nature, Rosemont offers a well-rounded lifestyle at a reasonable price.
Why Rosemont Works for First-Time Homebuyers:
- Affordable Housing Options: While prices in some parts of Montreal have skyrocketed in recent years, Rosemont has managed to maintain relatively affordable prices, especially compared to neighbourhoods like Mile-End or the Plateau. The area offers a range of options, from condos to small single-family homes, which can fit into a first-time buyer’s budget.
- Convenient Location: Rosemont is strategically located near the Laurier and Pie-IX metro stations, making it easy to get anywhere in the city. It’s also close to several major roads, which is helpful if you drive or need to commute by car.
- Green Spaces: One of the major selling points of Rosemont is its access to green space, notably the beautiful Parc des Rapides and the expansive Parc Maisonneuve. For first-time buyers looking for a balance of city life and nature, Rosemont has it all.
- Vibrant Community: Rosemont is a true community-driven neighbourhood, with a mix of young professionals, families, and long-time residents. The area has a growing number of local restaurants, cafés, and small shops, making it a lively place to live.
What to Look for: Rosemont’s unique charm lies in its character-filled homes, many of which have been renovated or are ripe for renovation. If you’re willing to put in a little elbow grease, you can find a solid investment in one of its many charming duplexes or single-family homes.
3. Ahuntsic-Cartierville: A Diverse and Thriving Community
Ahuntsic-Cartierville is another up-and-coming neighbourhood that’s gaining popularity with first-time buyers. Located in the northern part of Montreal, this area offers a more relaxed, suburban vibe while still being close enough to downtown to commute easily.
Why Ahuntsic-Cartierville Works for First-Time Homebuyers:
- Affordability and Value: Compared to the trendy neighbourhoods in the southern part of the island, Ahuntsic-Cartierville is still more affordable. You’ll find spacious homes and larger lots for a fraction of the price of similar properties closer to the city center.
- Family-Friendly: Ahuntsic-Cartierville is known for its quiet streets, great schools, and parks, making it ideal for families. The neighborhood also offers a range of community programs and activities, which is an added bonus for first-time homebuyers looking to settle down.
- Transportation: While a bit further north, Ahuntsic-Cartierville is well-served by the metro and bus system. The Crémazie and Sauvé metro stations are both within reach, making it convenient to get downtown without a long commute.
- Cultural Diversity: Ahuntsic-Cartierville is one of the most culturally diverse neighbourhoods in Montreal, which contributes to its vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find a wide variety of restaurants, markets, and cultural institutions that reflect the diversity of the residents.
What to Look for: Ahuntsic-Cartierville is home to many multi-family homes, which can be an attractive option for first-time buyers looking for rental income potential. The area also offers a mix of more traditional homes and modern condos, so there’s something for everyone depending on your preferences and budget.
4. Bonus Mention: Verdun’s Neighbouring Areas – St-Henri and Little Burgundy
If you’re open to exploring a little further beyond these three neighbourhoods, consider nearby areas like St-Henri and Little Burgundy. Both are quickly gentrifying neighbourhoods with lower property prices than their more established counterparts. Following a major glow-up over the last few years, Notre-Dame street is home to some of the best boutiques and restaurants the city has to offer.
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Place to Start Your Homeownership Journey
Montreal is a city full of opportunity for first-time homebuyers, especially in neighbourhoods that offer great value, convenience, and community. Whether you’re drawn to the waterfront views of Verdun, the eclectic charm of Rosemont, or the family-friendly atmosphere of Ahuntsic-Cartierville, these neighbourhoods provide the perfect starting point for your homeownership journey.
As with any real estate decision, be sure to consider your long-term goals, budget, and lifestyle needs before making a commitment. But with a little research and the right guidance, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect home in Montreal.
Are you a first-time homebuyer looking for advice on these or other Montreal neighbourhoods? Reach out to me, and let’s find the perfect fit for you!