For newcomers to Canada, finding a new house is a daunting task. It is difficult to choose the right one as there are so many options available. In this article, we will provide you with essential tips on how to rent your first apartment as a newcomer in Canada.
Discovering Your Ideal Rental
Start your search with the plethora of online platforms and resources that offer rental accommodation such as Condos.ca, Padmapper, and Zumper. These platforms present extensive listings across various neighborhoods to help you with more options at different price points. On the contrary, you can take the help of a realtor or real estate agent who can guide you through the process and find you a suitable place.
Instead of online searches, one can also physically visit the areas where they are planning to reside. Look out for “For Rent” signs displayed on houses or buildings, enabling you to connect with landlords or building managers directly for further inquiries.
While looking for your rental accommodation make sure that you determine a few factors such as the average rental costs area, proximity to public transportation, commute times, schools, workplaces, hospitals in the vicinity, grocery stores, parking availability, and crime rates.
Organizing Essential Documents
Renting a place in Canada requires you to provide certain documents to demonstrate your ability to afford rent and make timely payments. Landlords commonly request the following:
- Employment letter with salary details
- Credit report
- References from previous landlords
- Bank statements
- Photocopies of identification documents
Given that meeting these requirements can be challenging for a newcomer, there are alternative options available. If you haven’t secured a job yet, showing sufficient funds to cover several months’ rent can increase your credibility as a tenant. Your bank can provide a letter confirming your financial capacity to meet rent obligations.
Another alternative is to look for a guarantor or co-signer, who agrees to undertake responsibility for rent payments if you are unable to pay the rent.
Tips for Finding a Rental
Understanding the legal guidelines regarding rent deposits in each province is crucial. For example, in Ontario, renters are required to pay the first and last month’s rent in advance. If you lack certain documents, such as an employment letter, offering additional months’ rent in advance can incentivize a landlord to consider your application. Nevertheless, landlords are not permitted to demand such payments, it completely depends upon the tenant.
Additionally, it is important to know that landlords cannot request your Social Insurance Number (SIN) or inquire about your ethnic background, religion, marital status, or sexual preferences.
Consider exploring individually owned or basement apartment rentals, as they often involve a simpler application process compared to large rental buildings managed by property management companies. Individual landlords tend to be more flexible and accommodating to tenants’ unique situations.
Signing the Lease Agreement
This is an agreement that outlines the terms and conditions agreed upon by you and your landlord. It typically includes:
- Monthly rent amount and payment method
- Lease Duration
- Rental rules (e.g., smoking, pets)
- Termination or cancellation conditions
- Subleasing provisions
- Tenant responsibilities for repairs
- Lease conclusion details
Before signing the lease, ensure that you thoroughly understand its contents. If necessary, seek clarification from the landlord or seek legal advice to ensure you are comfortable with all the terms.
After the agreement, the tenant is required to transfer utilities, such as hydro, to their name from the previous tenants or the landlord. Finally, upon receiving the keys, you can move into your new home and embark on your Canadian journey. Renting your first apartment in Canada requires careful planning, organization, and understanding of the process. By abiding these few tips and thorough research may help you find a rental home that suits your needs and budget.
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