All MLS properties for sale in the province of Quebec can now be found under one roof after the www.centris.ca site was launched April 7 by the Quebec Federation of Real Estate Boards (QFREB).

“More than 65,000 properties are currently listed on centris.ca,” said Michel Beausejour, CEO of the QFREB, in a statement. “It is updated every hour, quickly providing consumers with new MLS listings as they come on the market”.

The federation says it was a year-long massive undertaking to develop the website, involving intensive research as well as three companies specializing in website development – Quebec-based Megavolt, as well as MarketLinx Inc. and the WAV Consulting Group, both based in California.

In addition to having the largest database of properties for sale in Quebec, centris.ca says it offers other tools to help consumers locate properties that correspond to their lifestyle needs. Socio-demographic data specific to the municipality in which properties are located is provided, such as population by age group, household income, level of education, nationality and languages spoken. MLS statistics (median price, number of sales) are also available, as are links to a variety of other websites (such as municipalities, sites for finding schools, daycare centres, nearby healthcare services).

Consumers can also find advice to assist them with the process of buying or selling a property, and search for a real estate agent. The site is linked to Realtor.ca.

“In connection with the launch of centris.ca, Quebec’s real estate agents are offering consumers the chance to win a $25,000 down payment applicable to the purchase of a property listed on the MLS system,” said Beausejour. The contest runs until May 7. The entry form, as well as contest details and rules, are available on the centris.ca homepage.

It also contains a video created by QFREB TV to help consumers navigate the site.

Quebec’s 12 real estate boards have 14,000 real estate agents and brokers.