How to Rent a Home in Canada

Navigating the process of renting a home in Canada for the first time can feel overwhelming. Numerous questions might arise: Should I consult a lawyer? Are appliances typically included in rentals? How can I discover quality rental properties? Which neighborhoods will best suit my needs? These are just the tip of the iceberg. Dive in for answers to these pressing questions and gain insights from our members who've made Canada their home.

"Canada is a beautiful country with a high standard of living, making it a popular destination for expats from around the world. If you're planning to move to Canada, one of the first things you'll need to sort out is your accommodation. Renting an apartment is a common choice for many newcomers. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information about renting an apartment in Canada, from finding a rental property to understanding the lease agreement.

How Do You Find a Rental Property in Canada?

There are several ways to find rental properties in Canada. Online platforms like Kijiji, Craigslist, and RentBoard.ca are popular among Canadians. You can also use real estate websites like Realtor.ca, which lists properties for sale and rent. Local newspapers and community boards often have rental listings as well. If you prefer a more personalized service, you can hire a real estate agent to help you find a suitable property.

Does Canada Have an MLS Type System?

Yes, Canada has a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) system, which is a cooperative selling system operated by real estate boards. It provides an extensive pool of properties for sale and rent. Realtor.ca is the most popular MLS website in Canada.

Do Brokers Have Licenses and How Do I Know if They Are Licensed?

Real estate brokers in Canada must be licensed to operate. Each province has its own regulatory body that oversees licensing. For example, in Ontario, it's the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO). You can verify a broker's license by checking with the relevant regulatory body.

Should I Buy or Rent?

The decision to buy or rent depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. Renting can be a good option if you're not sure about your long-term plans or if you prefer flexibility. Buying might be a better choice if you plan to stay in Canada for a long time and have the financial means to do so.

Is It Difficult to Find Rentals in Canada?

The rental market in Canada can be competitive, especially in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver. However, with proper planning and patience, you can find a suitable rental property. It's advisable to start your search well in advance of your move.

What Documents Are Required When Renting an Apartment?

When renting an apartment in Canada, you'll typically need to provide proof of income (like pay stubs or a letter from your employer), references (previous landlords or employers), and a credit report. Some landlords may also ask for a co-signer if you're new to the country or don't have a credit history in Canada.

Do I Need a Lawyer When Renting an Apartment in Canada?

While it's not mandatory to have a lawyer when renting an apartment in Canada, it can be helpful, especially if you're unfamiliar with Canadian rental laws. A lawyer can review the lease agreement and ensure your rights are protected. The cost can vary, but you can expect to pay a few hundred dollars for this service.

How Long Is the Typical Lease For?

The typical lease term in Canada is one year. However, shorter or longer terms may be available depending on the landlord's preferences and the local rental market.

Do I Have to Pay a Deposit?

Yes, most landlords in Canada require a deposit, which is usually equivalent to one month's rent. This deposit is used as security for any damages to the property or unpaid rent.

What Other Upfront Costs Are There When Renting?

Other than the deposit, you may also need to pay the first month's rent upfront. Some landlords may also charge a non-refundable fee for processing your rental application.

Are Utilities Included?

Whether utilities are included in the rent depends on the rental agreement. Some landlords include utilities in the rent, while others require tenants to set up and pay for their own utilities. Utilities in Canada can be quite expensive, especially heating during the winter months.

Are Furnished or Unfurnished Rentals More Popular?

Both furnished and unfurnished rentals are available in Canada. Furnished apartments typically include basic furniture and appliances, while unfurnished apartments usually only include major appliances like a refrigerator and stove. The choice between furnished and unfurnished depends on your personal needs and budget," said one expat living in Canada.

Expats Talk about What Type of Housing They Live In

"It was a small modular home on the banks of Okanagan Lake. It's not a typical home for the area although there are quite a few areas in Kelowna with this type of low cost housing," said one expat living in Kelowna.

Expats Talk about How they Found their Home

"I came here 54 years ago and was married to a Canadian and so the house was chosen for me due to a housing shortage. Subsequently, my husband died and I came to the North West part of this city," commented an expat living in Calgary.

"I looked at the Fraser Institute website giving school ratings as they operate a catchment area for entry to schools. This was my criteria and we found a bungalow in this area. Found it in a local newspaper and had to move fast," said an expat in Edmonton.

"We are in our 4th home in 8 years, moving from rental to rental until buying 5 years ago. Our neighborhood was really decided upon by the schools available to us with Quebec's language laws. If we could use any schools we would live more downtown rather than in the burbs," remarked one expat who made the move to Montreal.

"I bought a house near where my daughter initially wanted to go to school. She changed her mind before we moved in, wanting to attend school in a different town. So we moved 4500 miles together only to live 30 miles apart. She boarded, came home at weekends. Soon as my residency permit came through, I sold the house and bought one in the gulf islands," explained one expat living in Vancouver.

"By location and building amenities (The Richlin) a great building for adults, not a good neighborhood for kids, Everything you can imagine is within 3 1/2 miles from here," said one expat in Ottawa.