Real estate market upheaval. The lure of lower prices in the regions. Environmentally conscious citizens. These factors have fostered the emergence of several trends that are influencing the housing choices of Quebecois. What’s in store for 2024?
Retreating to smaller cities or towns
Many families are leaving Montreal, Quebec City, and Gatineau to live in smaller cities and towns. A longing to be closer to nature and escape the stress of urban life is motivating a lot of people to follow this trend, which is easier now with the rise of teleworking.
The price of homes in these areas is usually lower and the cost of living is more affordable. The municipalities of Rawdon, Saint-Calixte, and Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, have welcomed many new residents. This move is a good long-term investment and a way to improve quality of life.
Returning to the land
This trend is less typical than the others listed above but is nonetheless gaining in popularity. Driven by the desire to live in harmony with nature and to be self-sufficient, many young families have chosen to move to small farms. Some grow their own vegetables or raise a few backyard animals while holding down traditional jobs, while others go into making food or beauty products full-time.
In the same spirit, the ecovillage phenomenon is attracting more and more advocates. These rural communities have a vision of self-sufficiency based on an alternative economic model, a major emphasis on environmental protection, and a strong commitment to community life.
Since 1983, Cité Écologique, an ecovillage in Ham-Nord, is home to an increasing number of residents and businesses that are eco-friendly. Today, there are about 100 ecovillages in Quebec, a number that has grown by 20% since 2017.
Deluxe retirement
Many people who are retired or nearing the end of their professional careers are taking advantage of the post-pandemic frenzy to sell their properties. Some are turning to high-end housing to maintain or even increase their comfort level. It may be expensive, but this target market often has considerable amounts of money available after selling a home that was fully paid for.
Ideal for people who may not have the energy to maintain a home, luxury rental properties are very appealing: indoor parking, elevators, modern decor, and proximity to services. In 2023, with the aging population, this type of housing will continue to rise in popularity and attract buyers.
Eco-friendly homes
The concept of eco-friendly housing, more specifically “passive” homes, is revolutionizing the housing world. They are built with environment-friendly or recycled materials and are designed to minimize energy consumption and, in some cases, to be self-sufficient in terms of electricity, water supply, heating, and sewage system.
In recent years, companies working in the field of green building have been in high demand, which is a testament to their growing appeal, says Julie Hudon, Vice-President of Écohabitations Boréales, a company that specializes in the construction of green homes.
“We’ve had steady growth since the company was founded in 2009, but there was a real surge in demand during the pandemic. Many people re-evaluated their lives during the lockdown and wanted to build outside of major cities, such as in the Laurentians, while respecting their environmental convictions.”
– Julie Hudon
Shared housing
In response to rising rent and interest rates, a large number of adults of all ages are turning to shared living arrangements. To reduce financial strain, apartment renters and homeowners are opening the door to their second bedrooms and basements. Not only to friends but also to strangers.
The number of ads looking for roommates has exploded on various rental platforms such as Marketplace or Kijiji. Although this solution involves compromise, it allows people to find housing within their budget and homeowners to reduce their mortgage payments.
EspaceProprio Tip Meet your potential roommates (in person or by video call) before committing to moving in with them.
Could friends or family also benefit from EspaceProprio’s expertise? Invite them to look at what we have to offer.
