1. This is a "Buyer Beware" Process

You must undertake due diligence with respect to all aspects of the property. The municipality does not guarantee the condition, value, or legal status of the property.

• Property value may be higher or lower than the minimum bid
• No warranties or representations about property condition
• All sales are final - no refunds or exchanges

2. No Property Access Before Sale

IMPORTANT: You are NOT allowed to enter the property territory before the sale.

• You may drive past the property to view from the street
• Site visits and interior inspections are not available
• Do not trespass - this is illegal

3. No Vacant Possession

The successful bidder will NOT receive keys or immediate access to the property.

• Current occupants may still be living in the property
• You are responsible for the eviction process if necessary
• Eviction can take several months and requires legal proceedings
• Budget for legal fees and lost time during eviction

4. Conduct a Title Search

Check for liens, mortgages, and other encumbrances on the property title.

• Municipal taxes: Usually cleared by the tax sale
• Federal/Provincial liens: May survive the sale (GST, income tax, etc.)
• Mortgages: Check if they will be cleared or survive
• Easements: Rights-of-way and restrictions that remain on title
• Building violations: Outstanding work orders or fines

Tip: Order a title search report 1-2 days before auction to see any last-minute changes.

6. Research Zoning and Building Restrictions

Verify the property meets your intended use and development plans.

• Check municipal zoning bylaws
• Research building permits and violations
• Verify legal use (residential, commercial, mixed)
• Check for heritage designations or protected status
• Review any outstanding work orders or compliance issues

7. Environmental Concerns

You are responsible for any environmental contamination issues.

• Former commercial/industrial sites may have soil contamination
• Oil tanks, asbestos, lead paint, mold issues
• Cleanup costs can exceed property value
• Consider environmental site assessment for commercial properties

7. Hire a Lawyer

We strongly recommend retaining a Quebec real estate lawyer before bidding.

• Review title search and identify risks
• Explain what liens/charges survive the sale
• Handle post-sale registration and documentation
• Assist with eviction proceedings if needed
• Ensure compliance with Quebec Civil Code

8. Set Your Maximum Bid

Determine the absolute maximum you will pay BEFORE the auction starts.

• Research comparable property values in the area
• Factor in renovation costs, eviction costs, legal fees
• Account for liens that survive the sale
• Don't get caught up in bidding wars - stick to your limit
• Remember: The highest bidder wins, no second chances

9. Payment Requirements

Be prepared to pay immediately after winning the bid.

• Deposit: Usually 10% of bid price, paid immediately
• Balance: Due within 30 days (varies by municipality)
• Accepted payment: Certified cheque, bank draft, or money order
• No financing contingency: You must have funds ready

10. Quebec-Specific Considerations

• Language: Auction may be conducted in French
• Civil Code: Quebec uses Civil Code (not Common Law)
• Notary: Consider using a Quebec notary for registration
• Municipal taxes: Cleared by sale, but verify school taxes
• Condo fees: May survive the sale - check declaration