COMMUNITY SNAPSHOT
Taking a look at Verdun
Located in the southwestern part of the island of Montreal, the borough of Verdun has undergone significant changes over the last decade. One of the oldest parts of Montreal, the waterfront community was founded in the 1600s and today is home to nearly 70,000 residents, many of whom have lived there for generations.
The community is beloved by many for its unique charm and so, in addition to its longtime residents, Verdun has attracted many newcomers over the years, including young families, professionals, and even empty nesters. In fact, its population has increased 4.6 per cent since 2011.
Its location along the St. Lawrence River helps set it apart from neighbouring communities because it has kilometres of incredible views, with biking and walking paths for all to use. Moreover, its many green spaces, community centres, and recreational facilities make it ideal for families — and anyone seeking an active lifestyle.
“Bordered by the blue of the river, Verdun is known for its dynamism, accessibility and economic vitality,” said Mayor JeanFrançois Parenteau. “Its recent membership in the Child Friendly Municipality program makes the Verdun borough a prime location
Bordered by the blue of the river, Verdun is known for its dynamism, accessibility and economic vitality.
for families, who have been growing in number in recent years.”
Among its many family-friendly installations are four outdoor pools and one heated wading pool, two libraries, two cultural centres, an arena, and seven outdoor skating rinks.
Aside from these coveted public facilities, its proximity to downtown is another huge selling point for Verdun. Being minutes away from the city centre serves professionals quite well. With three métro stops, 11 Bixi stations, and six bus lines in the borough, and easy access to major highways, Verdun offers fantastic accessibility to other parts of Montreal.
“The proximity of Montreal’s city centre combined with the borough’s amazing public transportation service, many green spaces, and the variety of quality affordable housing all play into Verdun’s role as a residential community, making it ideal for families with children,” said Tanya Boni, real estate broker and founding partner of Proprio Actif & Keller Williams Prestige.
While much of Verdun’s 9.8-square-kilometre territory consists of residential neighbourhoods, there’s also a healthy economic centre in the community on Wellington St.
Locally owned businesses are thriving in the neighbourhood, creating jobs and sparking new energy throughout the borough. These include a handful of flagship restaurants and microbreweries, and upward of 250 businesses on the commercial artery of Wellington St.
“With attractions such as the Promenade Wellington shopping district, Quai 5160-Maison de la culture de Verdun, and the future urban beach, there is no doubt that by choosing Verdun, citizens opt for a quality of life,” Parenteau said.
In terms of real estate, Verdun properties have increased in value over the last year, which is not surprising considering the increase in demand driven by the growing population. Today, a typical duplex or triplex will be priced in the low $500,000 range.
Among the properties currently for sale in the borough is a spectacular five-bedroom, semiattached home on Manning St. for $749,000. Originally built in 1931, its charming features such as hardwood floors, high ceilings and original mouldings have been maintained, while its kitchen and bathrooms have been totally renovated. Similarly, a three-bedroom cottage-style home on Galt St., originally built in 1910, has been beautifully renovated and is available for $529,000.
If you’re in the market for a condo, Verdun has plenty to offer. A two-bedroom unit on Evelyn St., for example, is priced at $299,000, and a two-bedroom condo in a new construction on Bannantyne St. is going for $311,000 plus taxes.
“Verdun is a borough that’s well known to all and a privilege to reside in when it comes to convenience and location,” Boni said. “The community is one of a kind, and definitely shouldn’t be overlooked.”