Selling a property is an important step, and being well prepared can make all the difference. One of the best ways to simplify the process is to gather the essential documents before your home is even listed for sale.
Here are the main documents you should have ready.
1. The Deed of Sale
The deed of sale helps confirm your ownership of the property. It contains the property’s cadastral designation as well as the main terms and conditions related to your purchase.
If you no longer have a copy, your notary can generally help you obtain one. Certain documents can also be ordered from the Quebec Land Register.
2. Municipal and School Tax Bills
Municipal and school tax bills confirm the annual taxes associated with the property. This information gives buyers a clearer picture of the expenses they should expect.
These documents are also used to verify the information included in the property listing.
3. The Certificate of Location
The certificate of location is one of the most important documents in a real estate transaction. Prepared by a land surveyor, it provides an overview of the property’s current situation and condition in relation to the titles, cadastre, and any laws or regulations that may affect it.
It indicates, among other things:
- The property boundaries;
- The location of the house and other buildings;
- Any servitudes affecting the property;
- Certain restrictions, irregularities or specific features concerning the property.
If changes have been made to the property since the certificate was prepared—such as an addition, swimming pool, shed or fence—a new certificate may be required.
4. The Declarations by the Seller of the Immovable
The Declarations by the Seller of the Immovable form provides the buyer with known information about the property’s condition, history and any work that has been completed.
It may cover issues such as water infiltration, structural problems, renovations, septic systems, the water supply or the possible presence of contaminants.
Your real estate broker will guide you through the process of completing this document thoroughly and transparently.
5. Renovation and Improvement Invoices
Have you renovated the kitchen, replaced the windows, redone the roof or installed a heat pump?
Keep the invoices, along with any available permits, plans and warranties. These documents confirm the work that was completed and can reassure buyers that the property has been properly maintained.
6. Warranties and Equipment Documentation
Valid warranties and manuals for the property’s main equipment—such as the water heater, heat pump, air exchanger, heating system and generator—can be valuable during the sale.
They provide buyers with more information about the included equipment and make the transition easier after the transaction.
7. Mortgage Information
Although your real estate broker and notary will handle several aspects of the transaction, it is helpful to have your mortgage information readily available.
This allows you to verify the outstanding balance, any potential penalties for early repayment and the applicable terms. During the transaction, the notary will ensure that the loan is repaid and that the mortgage is discharged.
8. Documents Specific to Your Property
Depending on the type of property and its features, other documents may be requested, including:
- Electricity or gas bills;
- Permits obtained for renovations or other work;
- Documents related to the septic system and water supply;
- Leases, if the property is rented;
- Inspection or expert reports;
- The declaration of co-ownership, if the property is a condominium;
- Meeting minutes, financial statements, the maintenance log and other documents from the syndicate of co-ownership;
- The syndicate’s certificate regarding the condition of the co-ownership.
Good Preparation Makes for a Simpler Sale
Gathering these documents from the beginning can save time, reduce unexpected issues and provide buyers with the information they need to make an informed decision. A well-prepared transaction inspires confidence and helps make the entire process much smoother.
Thinking about selling your property?
Every property is unique, and the required documents may vary depending on your situation. Équipe SD will guide you through every step to help ensure that your sale proceeds efficiently and with peace of mind.
Thinking about selling your property? Contact us for personalized advice and help preparing your home for the market under the best possible conditions.
Sources of reference
OACIQ – Your Brokerage Contract: Documents to Provide to Your Broker – OACIQ – The Importance of an Up-to-Date Certificate of Location – Government of Quebec – Certificate of Location – Chambre des notaires du Québec – Examination of Property Titles – Chambre des notaires du Québec – Billing in a Real Estate Transaction – Government of Quebec – Rules for the Sale of a Divided Co-ownership
