How to Find Long-Term Rental Housing in Canada
Finding a place to live is one of the biggest challenges when moving to Canada. With high occupancy rates and a competitive rental market in many cities, securing long-term housing can feel overwhelming. However, with the right approach, you can find a rental that fits your needs and budget.
Where to Look for Housing in Canada
Before you begin your search, take some time to think about what you’re looking for. Consider the cities and neighbourhoods that best suit your lifestyle, the type of housing you need, and most importantly, your rental budget. Setting a price limit is crucial, as spending too much on rent can leave little room for other expenses.
Once you have a clear idea of your preferences, explore different rental platforms and resources:
Realtor.ca and Centris.ca: Realtor is the go-to platform for rental listings outside of Quebec, while Centris is widely used in Quebec.
Alternative platforms: Sites such as Vrbo, PadMapper, and Zumper cater to English-speaking regions, while Duproprio and Louer.ca focus on French-speaking areas.
Real estate agencies: Companies such as RE/Max, Royal LePage, Century 21, Sutton Group, and EXP Realty have agents who can help you find rental properties.
Classifieds and online listings: Kijiji, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace often have rental listings from private landlords.
Local resources: Immigration offices, available through Canada.ca or Compass to Connect, may be able to help.
On-the-ground search: Walking around neighbourhoods and looking for “For Rent” signs can uncover hidden rental opportunities. In cities like Toronto, asking building managers directly may yield results.
When to Start Your Search
Before You Arrive in Canada
It’s best to start researching rental markets 3-4 months before you move. Study typical rental prices, square footage, and included amenities to understand what to expect.
Finding a rental from abroad is challenging, but not impossible. When you find a promising property, arrange for a trusted friend or real estate agent to visit it for you. Since most leases are for one year, it is risky to commit to a rental without seeing it.
After You Arrive in Canada
If you weren’t able to find a place to live before you moved, start looking as soon as you arrive. Visit the neighbourhoods you initially considered to make sure they meet your expectations. If necessary, expand your search to new areas. Hiring a real estate agent can speed up the process.
Challenges in Renting a Home
Several factors can make renting a home more complicated
Pets: Landlords are often reluctant to rent to pet owners. Finding a pet-friendly rental is possible, but it requires extra effort.
Quebec’s rental cycle: In Quebec, many leases start on July 1. Arriving in late winter or early spring may improve your chances of finding a rental.
Documents Required to Rent a Property
Landlords usually require the following:
Proof of immigration status
Employment verification (salary details)
Bank statements
Credit report
References from previous landlords
Newcomers may face challenges due to a lack of Canadian credit history or employment. However, a strong financial reserve can help secure a lease. Saving in advance is essential—housing will likely be one of your largest expenses!
How I Can Help You
Through my coaching sessions, I assist clients with their housing search by evaluating factors such as:
The affordability of rent based on projected income
The quality of local schools for families with children
For a comprehensive guide to rental costs across Canada, my book, Costs of Moving to Canada: The Ultimate Guide, provides also detailed information on renting a student room, shared housing, apartments, and even buying a home. Don’t miss out on reading it!