Global Major Cities Guide

Information on temporary accommodation options such as Airbnb, hostels, and hotels.

Sections

1. Types of Short-Term Accommodations in Montreal

Montreal offers a wide range of short-term rental options, catering to tourists, business travelers, and temporary residents. Here are the most common types:

Furnished Apartments: Fully equipped apartments available for short stays (a few days to several months). These are ideal for those seeking privacy and a home-like environment.
Airbnb and Vacation Rentals: Popular for short stays, these range from private rooms to entire homes. Many listings are in trendy neighborhoods.
Corporate Housing: Designed for business travelers, these are fully furnished apartments with amenities like Wi-Fi, cleaning services, and sometimes gym access.
Student Residences: Some universities rent out dormitories during the summer months, which can be an affordable option.
Extended-Stay Hotels: Hotels offering apartment-style rooms with kitchenettes for longer stays.
Homestays: Staying with a local family, often arranged through platforms like Homestay.com, is a great way to experience local culture.

2. Typical Costs of Short-Term Rentals

The cost of short-term rentals in Montreal varies depending on the type of accommodation, location, and season. Here’s a breakdown:

Furnished Apartments: CAD 1,500–3,000 per month for a one-bedroom unit. Larger apartments or those in prime locations (e.g., Old Montreal) can cost more.
Airbnb: CAD 80–200 per night for a private apartment, depending on size and location. Discounts are often available for weekly or monthly stays.
Corporate Housing: CAD 2,000–4,000 per month, depending on amenities and location.
Student Residences: CAD 500–1,000 per month during the summer.
Extended-Stay Hotels: CAD 100–250 per night, with discounts for longer stays.
Homestays: CAD 30–80 per night, often including meals.

Seasonal Variations: Prices tend to be higher during peak tourist seasons (summer and major festivals like the Montreal International Jazz Festival) and lower in winter.

3. Rental Application Process

The process for securing a short-term rental in Montreal is relatively straightforward but varies depending on the type of accommodation:

For Furnished Apartments and Corporate Housing:

Search Online: Use platforms like Kijiji, Craigslist, or specialized rental websites like Furnished Finder, Nestpick, or Montreal Rent It Furnished.
Contact the Landlord/Agency: Provide details about your stay (dates, number of occupants, etc.).
Documentation: Some landlords may request ID, proof of employment, or a deposit.
Lease Agreement: For stays longer than 30 days, you may need to sign a lease. Ensure you understand the terms, including cancellation policies.
Payment: Typically, a deposit (one month’s rent) is required to secure the rental.

For Airbnb and Vacation Rentals:

Search and Book: Use the Airbnb platform to find a property that suits your needs. Read reviews carefully.
Payment: Full payment is usually required upfront via the platform.
Communication: Contact the host for check-in details and house rules.

For Homestays:

Register on a Platform: Use Homestay.com or similar services.
Profile and Preferences: Create a profile and specify your preferences (e.g., meals, language).
Host Communication: Chat with potential hosts to confirm details.
Payment: Pay a deposit online and the remainder directly to the host.

4. Neighborhood Considerations

Montreal is a city of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character. Here are some popular areas for short-term rentals:

Plateau-Mont-Royal: Trendy and artsy, with lots of cafes, boutiques, and parks. Popular with young professionals and students.
Downtown (Ville-Marie): Ideal for business travelers and those who want to be close to major attractions. Expect higher prices.
Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal): Historic and picturesque, with cobblestone streets and luxury rentals. Great for tourists but more expensive.
Mile End: A hip, multicultural area known for its vibrant arts scene and excellent food.
Griffintown: A modern, up-and-coming area with new condos and proximity to downtown.
NDG (Notre-Dame-de-Grâce): A quieter, family-friendly neighborhood with more affordable options.
Hochelaga-Maisonneuve: An emerging area with lower prices, though less central.

Proximity to Public Transit: Montreal’s public transit system (STM) is efficient, so consider neighborhoods near metro stations or bus routes.

5. Rules and Regulations

Montreal has specific rules governing short-term rentals, especially for platforms like Airbnb. Here’s what you need to know:

Registration Requirement: Hosts offering short-term rentals (fewer than 31 days) must register with the Quebec government and display a registration number in their listing.
Zoning Laws: Short-term rentals are only allowed in certain zones. Many residential areas prohibit them unless the host lives on-site.
Taxes: Hosts must collect and remit a lodging tax (3.5% of the rental price) to the government.
Lease Terms: For stays longer than 31 days, a standard lease agreement may apply, and tenant rights under Quebec’s rental laws come into effect.
Noise and Conduct: Montreal has strict noise bylaws, especially in residential areas. Be mindful of this to avoid complaints.

6. Cultural and Practical Advice

Language: Montreal is a bilingual city, but French is the dominant language. While most landlords and hosts speak English, learning a few basic French phrases can be helpful.
Winter Considerations: If you’re visiting in winter, ensure the rental has proper heating and inquire about snow removal for driveways or walkways.
Utilities: For short-term rentals, utilities (electricity, heating, Wi-Fi) are usually included. Confirm this with the landlord or host.
Deposit and Refunds: Understand the cancellation and refund policies, especially for Airbnb or furnished apartments.
Local Etiquette: Montrealers are friendly and laid-back. Respecting local customs, such as greeting people with “Bonjour” before speaking, goes a long way.
Transportation: Montreal is very walkable and bike-friendly. Consider renting a BIXI bike or using the metro to explore the city.

7. Resources for Finding Short-Term Rentals

Airbnb: www.airbnb.ca
Vrbo: www.vrbo.com
Kijiji: www.kijiji.ca
Furnished Finder: www.furnishedfinder.com
Nestpick: www.nestpick.com
Homestay: www.homestay.com
Montreal Rent It Furnished: www.rentitfurnished.com/montreal

By understanding the types of accommodations, costs, regulations, and cultural nuances, you’ll be well-prepared to find a short-term rental in Montreal that suits your needs. Let me know if you need further assistance!