A new home can offer a layout and finishes that suit your needs. Buying from plans also means committing before you can inspect the finished property. For buyers in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, the West Island and surrounding areas, the first step is to understand exactly what is being promised—and what happens if the project changes.

1. Review the preliminary contract

When an individual buys a new residential property from a builder or developer to live in, Quebec generally requires a preliminary contract. This differs from the usual resale promise to purchase.

The applicable framework includes a 10-day withdrawal right. It is not necessarily free to exercise: the contract may provide for compensation of up to 0.5% of the agreed sale price. Have a notary or lawyer confirm the deadline, required documents and notice procedure for your transaction. OACIQ explains the preliminary contract.

Review the plans, specifications, price-adjustment clauses, substitutions, cancellation rights and any restrictions on transferring your contract. Make sure promised extras appear in writing. For a condo, ask for the applicable information note, proposed co-ownership documents and budget, and clarify whether the advertised area is gross or net.

2. Check the builder and the warranty separately

Verify the contractor’s valid RBQ licence and, where the mandatory warranty applies, GCR accreditation and your building’s registration. Ask about completed projects and after-sales service.

Quebec’s mandatory new residential building warranty plan, administered by GCR, covers specified building types. Do not assume every new condo is covered. The covered condo category includes buildings with no more than four stacked private units; other projects may have different protection. Obtain the actual warranty documents and confirm coverage for your specific project. Check which buildings fall under the plan.

3. Map out deposits and their protection

Request a written schedule showing every payment, its due date and the conditions for a refund. There is no single deposit schedule that fits every Quebec project. Ask who receives the money, how it is held and what protects it.

For eligible buildings under the mandatory plan, deposit protection is subject to a $50,000 maximum and the plan’s conditions. A larger deposit is not automatically fully protected by GCR. Have any additional protection verified before paying. See the official coverage limits.

4. Compare the full cost, not just the advertised price

Ask for a breakdown of the price before taxes, GST and QST, any assumed rebates and the final amount payable. Rebates depend on eligibility; do not treat a promotional “net price” as confirmation that you qualify. Check current rules with Revenu Québec, including any first-time-buyer provisions.

Also budget for upgrades, appliances, landscaping, parking or storage, notarial fees, transfer duties and adjustments where applicable. For a condo, review projected common expenses and what may change after delivery.

5. Leave room for financing and timing changes

Ask your lender how long the approval and rate terms remain valid, and what must be confirmed before funds are released. A pre-approval today should not be treated as unconditional financing for a home delivered much later.

Distinguish the estimated completion date from contractual commitments. Review extension clauses and what happens if you need temporary accommodation, storage or a mortgage extension. Ask your legal adviser which remedies or warranty benefits apply; do not assume all delay costs will be reimbursed.

6. Inspect before accepting the property

For homes covered by the mandatory plan, the pre-acceptance inspection is required and uses the approved checklist with the contractor. Consider bringing an independent building professional. Record unfinished work and visible defects on the form, keep a copy and follow the applicable written notification deadlines. Read the official inspection guidance.

A new home still deserves a careful inspection. For a condo, clarify the separate process for the private unit and common portions.

Is pre-construction the right fit?

Compare the complete project with existing homes at a similar total budget. Consider your preferred location, ability to handle delays and comfort buying before seeing the finished space. A good fit depends on the details of your purchase, not just the model home.

Related reading: Do I still need a financing condition if I am pre-approved?

Official resources

Information checked October 22, 2026. General guidance; have your specific contract and tax eligibility reviewed before committing.