Two major metropolitan areas, two opposite paths. In May 2026, the Quebec City CMA recorded 964 sales, up 5% — a peak — while the Montreal CMA fell to 4,623 sales (-7%). For the full breakdown of the Capitale-Nationale record, see our Quebec City sales-peak analysis. Understanding this divergence helps you decide where, when and how to act this summer.
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1. Montreal Slows Down
In Montreal, the 4,623 sales of May 2026 mark a 7% year-over-year drop. Prices still rise, but modestly: single-family +3%, plex +6%, condominium +1%. The clearest signal comes from selling times: 30 days for single-family, 39 days for plex, but 47 days for condominiums. Downtown condos are in fact shifting toward a buyer's market. In short, Montreal is breathing: more choice, more time to decide.
2. Quebec City Accelerates
The Capitale-Nationale takes the opposite tack. With 964 sales (+5%), the Quebec City CMA reaches a peak and sees median prices climb to records: plex $575,000 (+15%), single-family $470,000, condominium $330,000. The market there stays smaller by volume than Montreal, but clearly tighter: demand absorbs supply and pushes prices, especially on plexes.
3. Why the Divergence
Across Quebec, May 2026 totalled 9,300 sales (-6%) with sharply higher listings (42,066, +13%) and a median single-family price of $524,900 (+5%). Quebec City outperforms this average on sales, while Montreal drags it down by volume. The backdrop is shared: a policy rate held at 2.25% on June 10, predictable financing and supply that is rebuilding. But local markets react differently to that frame, depending on their starting price level and the depth of their demand.
4. What It Means for Buyers
Your strategy depends on the city. In Quebec City, strong sales and peak prices mean you must be ready: pre-approval in hand and a quick decision when the right property shows up. In Montreal, more abundant supply — especially in condos — leaves more room: you can compare, negotiate and target a price aligned with recent comparables. Either way, knowing the true value of the neighbourhood remains your best protection.
5. What It Means for Sellers
In Quebec City, the balance still leans toward sellers, especially on plexes: a well-prepared, well-presented property can aim for the top of the range. In Montreal, and particularly for condos, the key is pricing right from the start: with longer selling times (47 days) and more competition, overpriced units stall. The right reflex, on both sides of the river: set the price on recent data rather than on last year.