Under One Roof

Sometimes, the smartest real estate decision you can make is knowing when to walk away. This week on Under One Roof MTL, Robyn Flynn and LJ Aguinaga discuss the warning signs that should make homebuyers think twice before committing to a property. From troubling home inspections and financing complications to questionable seller disclosures and unexpected repair costs, we explore when it's worth negotiating and when it's better to move on.

Plus, Fred Pichette and Martin Spalding explain why a great salary, excellent credit score, and substantial down payment don't necessarily guarantee mortgage approval. We'll explore how credit...

Condo or house? It's one of the biggest decisions homebuyers face, and the right answer isn't always about price. This week on Under One Roof MTL, Robyn Flynn and LJ Aguinaga break down the financial and lifestyle differences between owning a condo and a house, from maintenance costs and condo fees to freedom, flexibility and long-term resale value.

Plus, Martin Spalding explains why getting approved for a mortgage involves more than having good credit and a steady income. Through the story of a homebuyer who lost his dream property because his paperwork wasn't ready, we explore the...

Buying your first home is exciting, but there's a LOT that happens between deciding you're ready to buy and finally getting the keys. This week on Under One Roof MTL, Robyn Flynn and LJ Aguinaga discuss the unexpected costs, difficult decisions, and common surprises first-time homebuyers should prepare for.

Plus, Martin Spalding explains the world of alternative mortgage lending, better known as B-lenders. If you've ever been turned down for a mortgage by a traditional bank, that doesn't necessarily mean homeownership is out of reach. We explore who these lenders serve, how they qualify borrowers, and why...

Housing affordability is one of the biggest issues facing Quebecers heading into the October 5 provincial election. So this week on Under One Roof MTL, we're taking a closer look at what the major parties are proposing to do about it.

From tax breaks and down-payment assistance for first-time buyers to rent control, social housing, construction targets and deregulation, the parties are offering very different approaches. We break down the housing promises from the Coalition Avenir Québec, Parti Québécois, Québec solidaire, Quebec Liberal Party and Conservative Party of Quebec so you can compare them for...

What happens when you inherit a home and suddenly have to figure out what to do with it? This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ Aguinaga walks us through the process of selling an inherited property, from the paperwork that needs to happen first to deciding whether to renovate, repair, or simply sell the home as-is.

Plus, Fred and Martin break down reverse mortgages: how they work, who they're designed for, how much equity homeowners may be able to access, and why someone might choose a reverse mortgage instead of refinancing or using a HELOC. We...

Is it ever a good idea to list your home high just to "see what happens"? This week on Under One Roof MTL, we're looking at why an ambitious asking price can backfire, how buyers react to stale listings and price drops, and why getting the price right from day one matters.

Plus, tariffs, inflation and economic uncertainty are creating some big questions for Canadian homeowners. We look at what the current trade war could mean for mortgage rates and Montreal real estate, and Fred and Martin explain how refinancing your mortgage can be used to consolidate...

Thinking about tackling some exterior projects this summer? Before you spend thousands on landscaping, paving stones, or a backyard makeover, it's worth knowing which upgrades actually add value to your home—and which ones don't.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ Aguinaga breaks down the exterior improvements that make the biggest impact on curb appeal, resale value, and buyer interest. Plus, Fred and Martin answer another round of frequently asked mortgage questions from listeners.

Trying to buy a new home while selling your current one? It can feel like a logistical nightmare.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ Aguinaga shares practical strategies for coordinating a purchase and sale at the same time, from timing closing dates to using bridge financing. Plus, Fred and Martin answer some of the mortgage questions they hear most often from homeowners and buyers.

Zillow-style estimates and online home value calculators are everywhere. But how accurate are they when it comes to determining what your home is actually worth?

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ Aguinaga explains why online estimates often miss the mark, what truly drives a home's value, and how sellers can get a realistic picture of what their property is worth in today's Montreal market. Plus, we're joined by Marc Bissell of Castleton Finance to discuss private lending, who it's for, and how it can help homeowners and borrowers who don't fit the traditional bank model.<...

The first few days after your home hits the market can completely shape the outcome of your sale.

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ Aguinaga explains why the first 7–10 days of a listing are so important, what buyers are thinking when a property sits too long, and the biggest mistakes sellers make right out of the gate. Plus, Fred and Martin answer more of your frequently asked mortgage questions, including reverse mortgages, alternative lenders, and self-employed borrowing.

In This Episode:

What's Happening in the Market Right Now

Home inspection reports can be intimidating, especially for first-time buyers. But how do you know which issues actually matter… and which ones are just part of owning a home?

This week on Under One Roof MTL, LJ Aguinaga breaks down the biggest mistakes buyers make after reading an inspection report and explains which findings should truly raise concern. Plus, Fred and Martin answer another round of frequently asked mortgage questions, including refinancing, renewals, penalties, and credit scores.

In This Episode:

What's Happening in the Market Right Now

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

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

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

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 t...

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 m...

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.