Canada apartments for rent is a big step for a newcomer to Canada, but the housing market offers plenty of options. Aside from the cost of rent, there are other monthly costs to consider, including utilities (hydro, AC and heat) and internet and home phone services. It’s also important to keep in mind that the average two-bedroom condo rent in Vancouver and Toronto is more than $1,800 CAD a month.
According to a recent report from CMHC, asking rents across Canada increased by 21% last year, with the top cities experiencing the most significant hikes. The agency attributed the higher prices to tighter supply and rising demand, especially in major metro areas where population increases have outpaced housing construction.
Canada Apartments for Rent: What to Expect
In some cases, landlords may require a security deposit or first and last month’s rent upfront before moving in. If you’re a newcomer to the country, it might be helpful to have a local guarantor or co-signer on your application.
For those looking to move into an apartment in Canada, there are several different websites where you can browse and inquire about available units. Craigslist is a popular option, with an attractive listing page that includes plenty of photos and filtering options. It’s worth pointing out, though, that some landlords have complained about being taken advantage of by tenants on the site. As a result, other all-in-one rental platforms have emerged that create a safer and easier way to find an apartment.