A MONTREAL RESIDENCE THAT HAS STOOD THE TEST OF TIME

Some properties have been renovated. Others have been preserved. This one clearly belongs to the second category.

Built circa 1900, this imposing three-storey property features a beautiful 25-foot-wide stone façade, accented by architectural details, while the side and rear elevations are built in brick. It has retained many of the features that define the character of historic Plateau homes: exterior staircases at both the front and rear, handsome balconies, wood-framed windows and an architecture that speaks to another era.

Inside, the story continues. Original woodwork, wood floors and architectural details have survived over the years. A number of distinctive doors and windows add to the character of the property. These are not contemporary interiors designed to look old. This is an authentic Montreal property that has simply been allowed to retain much of what made it special in the first place.

All three apartments benefit from generous proportions, made possible in part by the rear extension, and enjoy abundant natural light. The third-floor apartment has been thoughtfully reconditioned and offers the most visually refined of the three interiors, while remaining true to the spirit of the property.

The two other apartments have retained considerably more of their original character. Together, they offer something increasingly difficult to find on the Plateau: an authentic architectural canvas for someone who understands the value of what is already there.

Outside, a rear courtyard with parking, accessible from the laneway, completes the property. There is no conventional basement, but a partially excavated crawlspace beneath the building provides useful storage.

And then there is Berri.

On this stretch of the 3800 block, the street captures much of what makes the historic Plateau so distinctive: beautiful old façades, mature trees, exterior staircases and a succession of homes that have retained their individuality. Here, architecture is not simply a backdrop. It is part of everyday life.

With annual revenues exceeding $80,000 and good tenants in place, the property also offers a strong financial foundation behind its architectural character.

But let's be honest: this property isn't about the numbers alone.

It is for someone who loves old Montreal homes. Someone who would rather have an original moulding than a brand-new renovation. Someone who understands that worn floors, imperfect walls, old doors and details that simply aren't made anymore have their own kind of value.

A property for someone who isn't simply looking to own a building, but to preserve a piece of Montreal from another era.