Real Estate and Remote Work: A Lasting Trend or a Shift? What It Means for Your Mortgage

Since 2020, remote work has transformed our habits and the Quebec real estate market. But a new directive from the Canadian government, which plans a gradual return to the office for its employees, raises questions: Is this trend here to stay? And more importantly, how does it affect your mortgage choices? Here’s what you need to know.

Remote work, a driver of change … but not a certainty

Remote work encouraged a move to the regions, driven by lower prices, more space, and better quality of life. Buyers sought properties with home offices, reliable internet, and outdoor spaces.

However, nothing is set in stone:

The federal government aims for a full return to in-person work by 2027, but this plan faces union opposition and remains uncertain.
Currently, the rule is hybrid (3 days/week), but nearly 40% of employees do not comply.

Bottom line? Remote work remains important, but it may shift toward a stricter hybrid model.

Return to the office—what impact on your real estate plans?

Less migration to regions? If remote work declines, urban demand could rebound.
Reassess your choices: before buying far from major centers, make sure your job offers lasting flexibility.
Agile mortgage: choose products with portability clauses and prepayment options to stay adaptable.

Impact on property values

In cities: a return to the office could stabilize or boost demand.
In regions: after spectacular increases, growth may slow, especially in remote areas.

Mortgage strategies to navigate uncertainty

1. Assess your professional horizon

Your real estate project must consider your situation: permanent remote work, hybrid, or full return?

2. Choose flexibility

Opt for transferable mortgages.
Favor prepayment options to reduce penalties if you need to move.

3. Secure your budget

Fixed rate for stability if you plan to stay long-term.
Variable rate if you have financial leeway and follow economic trends.

Remote work has redefined the real estate market, but policies are evolving. In this uncertain context, flexibility is key: choose a mortgage that adapts to your needs, today and tomorrow.

Need guidance? Contact us to analyze your options and secure your project.

TERMS	BANKS	MORTGAGE PLANNERS
1 Year Fixed	7.14%	4.89%
2 Years Fixed	6.69%	4.14%
3 Years Fixed	6.35%	3.84%
3 year closed Variable	5.95%	4.45%
4 Years Fixed	6.29%	3.94%
5 Years Fixed	6.34%	3.79%
5 years Variable	5.20%	3.65%
Refinance Fixed or variable	7.65%	3.90%
7 Years Fixed	6.69%	4.59%
10 Years Fixed	7.14%	5.04%
HELOC	5.45%	4.95%

TERMS

BANKS

MORTGAGE PLANNERS

1 Year Fixed

7.14%

4.89%

2 Years Fixed

6.69%

4.14%

3 Years Fixed

6.35%

3.84%