Under One Roof

How do you know when it's finally time to sell your investment property? This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ Aguinaga shares the story behind selling one of his first investment properties, a 4-plex he held for nearly a decade. Plus, Fred and Martin answer some of the mortgage questions Canadians are asking most right now, from fixed vs variable rates to renewing with your bank versus shopping around. In This Episode: What's Happening in the Market Right Now The Bank of Canada warns interest rates could rise if inflation continues climbing Retirees across Canada are delaying downsizing plans as housing markets soften Why Quebec continues to behave differently than many other Canadian markets Real Estate: Knowing When It's Time to Sell Your Investment Property LJ Aguinaga opens up about recently selling one of his first investment properties, a 4-plex he owned for roughly 9 years: Why he originally bought the property The strategy behind holding it long-term Why he ultimately decided now was the right time to sell Lessons learned about investment real estate over nearly a decade of ownership What he would do differently if he could start over today Mortgages: Your Frequently Asked Questions, Answered Fred and Martin tackle some of the biggest mortgage questions Canadians are asking in 2026: Should you choose a fixed or variable mortgage rate? Is a 3-year fixed better than a 5-year fixed? Will mortgage rates go down this year? Should you renew with your current bank or shop around? Can self-employed borrowers still qualify for mortgages? How much house can you realistically afford? Trivia Question of the Week What is a closing date? Answer: The final step in a real estate transaction where ownership officially transfers from seller to buyer, funds are exchanged, and documents are signed. Get in Touch: LJ Aguinaga – Real Estate 📞 514-500-4040 🌐 LJ Realties 📱 Instagram & socials: @ljaguinaga / @ljrealties Property Management (Plex Dr) 📞 514-709-6397 🌐 Plex Dr Fred & Martin – Mortgage Experts 🌐 FredAndMartin 📧 [email protected]

Thinking about selling your home? Wondering what the process actually looks like behind the scenes? This week on Under One Roof MTL, we walk you through the real seller's journey, from pricing and prep to accepting an offer. Plus, we break down whether paying down your mortgage faster is always the smart financial move. In This Episode: What's Happening in the Market Right Now The Bank of Canada holds interest rates steady Mortgage debt is rising fastest among Canadians nearing retirement More homeowners are leveraging equity to help younger buyers, raising long-term financial considerations Real Estate: The Seller's Journey — What Selling Your Home Actually Looks Like Seller consultation, pricing strategy, and reviewing comparables Gathering documents, warranties, and setting inclusions/exclusions Decluttering and preparing the home for market Managing showings and adapting based on buyer feedback Accepting an offer after 16 days, within target price and preferred closing timeline What sets LJ Aguinaga and his team apart in a competitive market Mortgages: Paying Down Your Mortgage Faster — Smart Move or Trade-Off? Why many homeowners want to pay down their mortgage early The trade-off between prepaying your mortgage and maintaining liquidity How prepayment privileges actually work Increased scrutiny around borrowing and financial planning Practical advice for borrowers deciding where to allocate their money Property of the Week 📍 Anjou, Montreal 7421 Avenue des Halles — 1-bedroom, move-in-ready condo on the 4th floor with hardwood floors, private balcony, in-unit laundry, indoor parking, and walk-in closet. Listed at $299,000 — perfect for first-time buyers looking to stop renting. Trivia Question of the Week What is the word for the amount of money you've built up in your home as its value increases and your mortgage decreases? Answer: Equity Get in Touch: LJ Aguinaga – Real Estate 📞 514-500-4040 🌐 LJ Realties 📱 Instagram & socials: @ljaguinaga / @ljrealties Property Management (Plex Dr) 📞 514-709-6397 🌐 Plex Dr Fred & Martin – Mortgage Experts 🌐 FredAndMartin 📧 [email protected]

If your home has been sitting on the market with no offers, you're not alone… and you're not out of options. This week on Under One Roof MTL, we break down what sellers should do when a listing isn't getting traction, including how to adjust your price strategically without losing leverage. Plus, we tackle some of the most common mortgage myths that continue to confuse buyers and homeowners in 2026. In This Episode: What's Happening in the Market Right Now Inflation rises to 2.4%, driven in part by higher gas prices Housing affordability and job security are now top concerns for Canadians Many homeowners are preparing for mortgage renewals at higher rates Real Estate: What to Do If Your Home Isn't Selling How to tell if it's a pricing issue or a presentation problem The psychology behind price drops and buyer perception Whether to make one major price adjustment or multiple smaller ones When to consider pulling and re-listing a property How to reposition your home to attract new interest Mortgages: Dispelling Common Mortgage Myths "My bank will automatically give me the best renewal offer" "If you're self-employed, you can't get a mortgage" "A pre-approval guarantees financing" "Mortgage brokers only help if the bank says no" "Paying off debt always improves your approval" Property of the Week 📍 Griffintown, Montreal Two-bedroom condo with private balcony, in-unit laundry, and low condo fees ($173/month), listed at $475,000. Walk to the metro, the Lachine Canal, Atwater Market, and some of Montreal's best restaurants and cafés. Trivia Question of the Week What is the name of the tax you pay when you purchase a property in Quebec? Answer: Welcome Tax (land transfer tax), now reimbursable for some first-time homebuyers. Get in Touch: LJ Aguinaga – Real Estate 📞 514-500-4040 🌐 LJ Realties 📱 @ljaguinaga / @ljrealties Property Management (Plex Dr) 📞 514-709-6397 🌐 Plex Dr Fred & Martin – Mortgage Experts 🌐 FredAndMartin 📧 [email protected]

This week on Under One Roof, we're talking about the new initiative announced by the Quebec government to reimburse the welcome tax for first-time home buyers. Plus, LJ has some advice on whether now is the right time to buy. And, Fred and Martin break down which insurance products are mandatory, nice to have, and optional. 

This week on Under One Roof, we're taking a look at the factors that are causing fixed rates to increase right now. Plus, prices are dropping in some of Canada's most expensive cities... but that likely won't help first-time buyers get into the market. And, everything YOU need to know about down payments.

This week on Under One Roof, we're taking a look at how the recent surge in oil prices and expected job losses could impact the Bank of Canada's next interest rate announcement on April 29th. Plus, what should you prioritize when it comes to curb appeal improvements? And, what's more important; your interest rate or your mortgage loan conditions?

This week on Under One Roof, we're taking a look at the bond yields market, and how this is impacting fixed rate mortgages. Plus, the TAL ruled this week that it's a Charter violation to include "no pet" clauses in residential leases. What does this mean for tenants moving forward? LJ also has some advice for homeowners who are planning to sell their home in the next few months, so that they can showcase their home without losing their minds. And, Fred and Martin have some reverse mortgage advice for Canadians retirees. 

This week on Under One Roof, we're taking a look at the inflation numbers for February, and predicting what they might look like in the coming months. Plus, LJ has some advice for anyone who is considering purchasing property with a friend or family member. And, Fred and Martin offer up suggestions on how to successfully refinance your mortgage with a solid strategy in place. 

This week on Under One Roof, we're taking a look at the latest real estate market numbers, and trying to predict what the Bank of Canada might do with its next interest rate announcement. LJ goes over whether seasonality matters in real estate, and highlights the importance of working with a realtor who is dedicated to selling your property. And, Fred talks about why 5% might be the perfect amount to put down on your first home. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're discussing the three warning signs that you could be at risk of defaulting on your mortgage. Plus, what are some of the things that turn potential buyers away when you're selling your home, and is there anything you can do to mitigate those issues? And, what are your options for helping your adult children buy their first home?

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're talking about housing affordability, how to make your offer stand out, as well as protecting yourself as a homeowner in the event of a divorce or separation. 

This week on Under One Roof, we're talking about inflation falling to 2.3%, and how this may or may not impact the Bank of Canada's next interest rate announcement on March 18th.  We also look at whether or not it's still possible (and economical) to downsize in Montreal, and what to do if you're feeling house poor these days. 

This week on Under One Roof, we're going over the January 2026 real estate market numbers for Montreal, so that buyers and sellers know what the current trends are, as well as what to expect in the coming months.  We also look at what renovations offer the biggest bang for your buck, as well as what to do if the bank turns you down for a mortgage.

This week on Under One Roof, we're talking about whether homeownership is still a good investment. Plus, is it possible to be a great landlord AND make money doing it? And, everything you need to know about private lending and private mortgages in Canada. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, Robyn, Fred and LJ react to the Bank of Canada's first of eight interest rate announcements. Was staying the course the right move? And what should Canadians expect from the rest of 2026? Plus, LJ breaks down the red flags you should be on the lookout for when trying to purchase an older property in Montreal, from old wiring to asbestos issues.  And, Martin runs down all of the documents that you need to get pre-approved for a mortgage. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're talking about the latest inflation data, which indicates a 2.4% upward tick for the month of December. Is this cause for concern? Plus, LJ talks about what to do when a listing goes stale, and when you should start to worry.  And, Fred and Martin share some of the most common questions they get asked as mortgage brokers. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ runs down the Q4 Montreal real estate market numbers for us, analyzing what they mean for both buyers and sellers. We also discuss the fact that 60% of Canadian homeowners will need to renew their mortgage in 2026, and what they can do to prepare.  Plus, if you've ever thought about buying pre-construction, you're going to want to hear what LJ has to say about the pros and cons that come with buying a home before it's been built. And, Fred and Martin have some advice for self-employed individuals who are trying to get or renew a mortgage.   

This week on Under One Roof MTL, Fred, Martin, LJ and Robyn try to predict what will happen with interest rates and the Canadian economy in 2026. We also explain what condo fees are, where that money goes, and why condo owners sometimes end up with 4 and 5 figure special assessments.  We're also joined by Robert Hogue, assistant chief economist at RBC, to break down where Canada's economy is headed in 2026, and what this means for the national housing markets. 

This week on Under One Roof, we're taking a look back at some of the biggest mortgage and real estate stories of 2025. From changes to condo and mortgage rules, to shifts in the Montreal real estate market, LJ, Fred and Martin break everything down for you, and tie it up with a neat little bow, just in time for the holidays!

This week on Under One Roof, LJ, Fred and Martin try to predict what the Bank of Canada will do with its final interested rate announcement this week. Plus, why are so many first-time homebuyers in the dark when it comes to closing costs? We also discuss downsizing, and how to know if it's the right move for you. And, we're joined by best-selling author Jessica Moorhouse, to talk about the financial future of young Canadians, and how they can best set themselves up for success.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ, Fred, Martin and Robyn discuss the average age of first time homebuyers creeping up past 40, as well as how Montreal's rental market has shifted recently.  Plus, is flipping or long-term holding the better investment strategy in real estate right now? LJ has some advice for you on that front.  And, Fred and Martin explain how you can use cryptocurrency (like Bitcoin) as a down payment on a home. 

This week on Under One Roof, Fred and Martin play couples counsellors, offering some solid advice for couples who are thinking about moving in together.  LJ also breaks down what it looks like when a homebuyer submits a formal offer to purchase, and how they can protect themselves with conditions.

This week on Under One Roof, we're discussing 50 year mortgages, and just how much interest a homeowner would pay over the lifetime of a 50 year loan. And, could this product eventually become available in Canada? LJ also takes a look at the Montreal real estate market, reviewing the October numbers that just came out. And, he has some advice for staging and showcasing your property so that it SELLS.  Fred and Martin share some information that lenders don't tell you, AND we've got a ton of additional info about notaries that you don't want to miss!

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're exploring all of the different options available to the nearly 50% of Canadians whose mortgages are coming up for renewal in the next year. Should you renew, refinance, or consider a reverse mortgage? We also look at the hottest neighbourhoods in Montreal real estate, and what makes these areas so hot right now. And, Pattie Lovett-Reid, chief financial commentator at Home Equity Bank joins us to talk about CHIP reverse mortgages and whether they could be the right option for you.  

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ is talking CURB APPEAL, and how maintaining the exterior or your home can help increase its resale value (and just make it a more pleasant place to live!). Plus, Fred and Martin explain how credit reports work, and what you need to be mindful of in the 60-90 days before a mortgage application to make sure you get approved and get the best possible interest rate. Speaking of interest rates, how's everyone feeling about the latest Bank of Canada decision to slash rates by .25%?

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ is back, and he's taking us along for the ride on the buyer's journey. Then, Fred and Martin break down the ABCs of pre-approvals. By the end of this episode, you'll know exactly what to expect, either as a first-time homebuyer, or as someone who is looking to get back into real estate investing for the first time in a long time.   

This week on Under One Roof, Fred and Martin are taking us to SCHOOL, to discuss housing uncertainty in Canada, answering YOUR mortgage questions, and explaining the stress test and pre-approval process.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, Robyn, Fred and Martin are joined by Montreal notary Anna Kamateros, to discuss a story out of Ontario that left a woman with a $660,000 tax bill. Could this situation have been avoided, and how can you make sure that you're setting up your kids for success with your will? Plus, we talk about the changing face of first-time home buyers, as well as why so many Canadians are defaulting on their mortgage payments.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, Robyn, Fred, and Martin are once again joined by Thierry Bourbonnais from the Plex DR, to find out some of his craziest property management stories.  We also discuss reverse mortgages and the pros and cons of using this product to improve your cash flow.

This week on Under One Roof, Fred, Martin and Robyn are joined by special guest Thierry Bourbonnais from the Plex DR to talk about property management, and how hiring a property manager can make life easier for landlords.  They also discuss refinancing, and how homeowners can leverage the equity in their homes to consolidate debts, make home repairs, or even help their adult children buy their first home. 

This week on Under One Roof, LJ, Fred and Martin are talking about the Bank of Canada's most recent decision to slash interest rates by 25 basis points, and what this says about the current state of the Canadian economy.  They also tackle the Statistics Canada report that finds more and more Canadians are falling into debt, how long consumer proposals remain on your credit report, which investment property offers the best return on investment, and whether you should go with a fixed or variable rate mortgage right now.   

In our first show back from the summer break, Robyn, Fred, Martin and LJ try to guess what the Bank of Canada will do with its remaining three interest rate announcements, based on the current states of the economy, the real estate market, employment, and more.  Plus, we outline new rules for co-ownership in the province of Quebec, and how these new regulations impact condo owners, specifically. And, we chat about bidding wars, and the sticker shock that 60% of mortgage holders in Canada will be facing when their mortgage comes up for renewal in 2025-2026.  If YOU have any questions, you can always reach out to Fred, Martin and LJ individually: CONTACT LJ AGUINAGA: ljrealties.com, or call/text 514-500-4040 CONTACT FRED PICHETTE & MARTIN SPALDING: FredAndMartin.com  

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ has a Montreal real estate market update for you. Plus, Fred and Martin will look at different strategies for paying down your mortgage and getting ahead. And, LJ walks us through the home buying process, from start to finish.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're tackling interest rates, and a new survey that finds many Canadians are prioritizing travel over home ownership. Plus, why it's important to stay on top of and understand what's in your credit report, and a breakdown of the real estate broker rules in Quebec.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're talking about reverse mortgages. How they work, who benefits most, etc. Plus, we're just a month away from moving day in Quebec. What do you need to know, both as a landlord and a tenant, to be ready?

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're tackling the latest inflation numbers and what this could mean for the Bank of Canada's next interest rate announcement. We're also discussing the new federal housing minister's approach to the housing affordability crisis, and have some concrete tips for purchasing a cottage or vacation property. And, if you're interested in investing in a duplex, triplex, or multiplex, you won't want to miss LJ's advice!

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're looking at the state of Montreal rental market, as well as what fixed rate mortgages are looking like right now. We also tackle why the rate isn't the most important part of your mortgage, AND home renovations you can make that actually add value to your property.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're talking about interest rates, mortgage renewal sticker shock, investment properties, and more. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're recapping the results of Canada's federal election and the impact that might have on the Bank of Canada's interest rate announcements moving forward. We also break down the difference between TDS and GDS ratios, AND outline why investing in real estate is a solid retirement strategy.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're joined in studio by Plex DR COO Thierry Bourbonnais, to discuss everything you ever wanted to know about property management. 

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're discussing the Bank of Canada's decision to hold interest rates this week. We also talk about the "Quebec Effect" in Canadian real estate, offer advice on what to do if your mortgage is up for renewal, AND we dispel some common mortgage and real estate myths floating around on social media.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, we predict what the Bank of Canada will do with interest rates this week. Plus, a new report shows that condo sales are way up in Quebec. What's the situation in Montreal? And, everything you need to know about alternative lenders.

This week on Under One Roof, we're looking at what the federal political parties in terms of housing, including Mark Carney's ambitious promise to build 500,000 homes a year!   We also tackle mortgage penalties, and how to avoid them, as well as understanding all of the hidden costs that come with buying a home.

This week on Under One Roof, we run down what each federal party is promising on housing. We also go over the importance of credit scores, and how you can make sure your credit report is mortgage-ready. And, LJ has some tips for getting top dollar for your property when you sell, without sitting on the market for too long.

This week on Under One Roof, we discuss inflation ticking up to 2.6% for the month of February, and how this could impact interest rates and the real estate market.  We also give advice on how to shop around for a mortgage like a pro, and how to be a great landlord who also makes some money, too.

This week on Under One Roof, we tackle the Bank of Canada's latest interest rate cut, and try to predict what they might do with their next few announcements.  We also discuss refinancining your mortgage at length, specifically to pay down bad debts and get your finances back on track.  And, we look at whether short or long-term rentals are the better investment for property owners. 

This week on Under One Roof, we talk about the economic uncertainty that Canada is facing, in light of tariffs from the US. We also discuss the Bank of Canada's upcoming interest rate announcement, different lending options available to Quebec borrowers, and give you some KEY insights and advice on purchasing investment properties. 

This week on Under One Roof, we explain the difference between a pre-approval and a pre-qualification. We also offer tips and tricks for first-time homebuyers to save up for their down payment, leveraging all of the programs and accounts available to them.

This week on Under One Roof, we talk about reverse mortgages, and whether this could the right option for homeowners who are either looking to fund their retirement, pay down some debts, increase their cash flow, or even help their adult children to pay for college or a down payment on a house of their own.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ, Fred, Martin and Robyn talk about the CMHC's latest report, as well as January's home sale numbers for the month of January. We also walk you through the homebuying process, from putting in an offer, to getting your keys.