Quebec City Home Buying Guide 2024

Quebec City offers some of Canada's best real estate value: a thriving job market anchored by the provincial government, a historic Old City UNESCO site, and home prices well below Montreal. This guide covers everything from mortgage approval to droits de mutation and closing costs specific to Quebec City.

⚠️ Quebec has NO first-time buyer rebate on droits de mutation.
Unlike Ontario (up to $4,000 rebate) or some other provinces, Quebec offers zero provincial refund on the welcome tax for first-time buyers. Every buyer pays the full amount — plan accordingly.

Quebec City Real Estate Market Overview

Median home prices in Quebec City hover around $340,000–$420,000, making it more affordable than Montreal or Toronto. Neighbourhoods like Sainte-Foy, Beauport, and Charlesbourg attract families, while the Vieux-Québec and Saint-Roch areas appeal to young professionals and condo buyers.

Mortgage Pre-Approval in Quebec City

Canada's federal stress test applies city-wide. With average prices around $380,000, a 5% down payment is $19,000, and CMHC insurance would add roughly $14,440 to your mortgage. Most buyers in Quebec City opt for 10–20% down to reduce insurance premiums.

The Quebec Home Buying Process

Quebec uses a civil law system, which means all transfers are notarized. Your OACIQ-licensed broker will prepare the promesse d'achat (offer to purchase), and a notary will handle closing. Expect 30–60 days from accepted offer to possession.

Droits de Mutation in Quebec City

Quebec City buyers pay only provincial droits de mutation — there is no additional Montreal-style municipal surtax. This makes Quebec City slightly less expensive at closing than Montreal for the same purchase price.

Purchase Price RangeRate
$0 – $50,0000.5%
$50,001 – $250,0001.0%
$250,001 – $500,0001.5%
$500,001 – $1,000,0002.0%
Over $1,000,0002.5%

Quebec City Droits de Mutation Calculator

Enter the purchase price to calculate Quebec's welcome tax.


For full Quebec land transfer tax rates and tables, see our Quebec Land Transfer Tax Guide.

Closing Costs Breakdown — Quebec City

Best Neighbourhoods to Buy in Quebec City

Property Taxes in Quebec City

Quebec City's municipal tax rate is approximately 1.0%–1.2% of assessed value annually. On a $400,000 home, expect $4,000–$4,800/year in municipal taxes, plus school board taxes of roughly $500–$900/year.

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Key Tips for Quebec City Buyers