How to Find Rental Places in Toronto When You First Land Here: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you planning to move to Toronto and looking for a rental place? Toronto is a bustling city with a diverse population, and the rental market can be competitive and expensive. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps of finding a rental place in Toronto when you first land here, and we’ll also provide you with the current rental prices for condos, apartments, basements, townhouses, and shared rooms.

Step 1: Determine Your Budget

The first step in finding a rental place in Toronto is to determine your budget. Toronto is an expensive city, and the cost of living can be high. According to RentBoard, the average rental price for a one-bedroom apartment in Toronto is $1,905, while a two-bedroom apartment is around $2,562 per month. The rental prices for condos, townhouses, and basements can vary depending on the location, size, and amenities.

When determining your budget, consider factors such as rent, utilities, transportation, and other expenses like groceries and entertainment. Be realistic about what you can afford, and don’t forget to factor in unexpected expenses like repairs or emergencies.

Step 2: Research Neighbourhoods

The next step is to research neighbourhoods in Toronto. Each neighbourhood has its own character, vibe, and rent prices. Some of the popular neighbourhoods in Toronto include:

Downtown Toronto: The downtown core is the heart of the city and is home to many condos and apartments. The average rent for a one-bedroom condo in downtown Toronto is $2,392, while a two-bedroom condo is around $3,173 per month.
Scarborough: Scarborough is a suburban neighbourhood in the east end of Toronto. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Scarborough is $1,441, while a two-bedroom apartment is around $1,732 per month.
North York: North York is a diverse neighbourhood in the north end of Toronto. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in North York is $1,734, while a two-bedroom apartment is around $2,138 per month.
Etobicoke: Etobicoke is a suburban neighbourhood in the west end of Toronto. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Etobicoke is $1,630, while a two-bedroom apartment is around $1,987 per month.

Step 3: Search for Rentals

Once you’ve determined your budget and neighbourhood preferences, it’s time to start your search for rental places. There are several popular websites and apps you can use to search for rental listings in Toronto, such as Realtor.ca , Condos.ca, and Zumper. You can also check with local real estate agents or property management companies.

Be cautious when using certain websites like Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace. These platforms have been known to have rental scams, so be wary of any rental listings that seem too good to be true.

The current rental prices for different types of rental places in Toronto are as follows:

Condos: The average rent for a one-bedroom condo in Toronto is $2,392, while a two-bedroom condo is around $3,173 per month.
Apartments: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Toronto is $1,905, while a two-bedroom apartment is around $2,562 per month.
Basements: The average rent for a basement apartment in Toronto is around $1,200 per month.
Townhouses: The average rent for a two-bedroom townhouse in Toronto is around $2,250 per month.
Shared rooms: The average rent for a shared room in Toronto is around $700-$800 per month.

Step 4: Attend Viewings

Once you’ve found some rental listings that interest you, it’s time to attend viewings. This is your chance to see the rental place in person. Check the amenities and features, and ask any questions you may have.

When attending viewings, be prepared to bring your ID, proof of income, and references. Landlords often require these documents to approve your rental application. It is also a good idea to bring a checklist with you to the viewing. The checklist will ensure you don’t forget to ask any important questions or check any essential features.

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Step 5: Submit Your Rental Application

If you’ve found a rental place that you like, the next step is to submit your rental application. This typically involves filling out an application form, providing your ID, proof of income, and references, and paying a rental application fee.

Landlords often receive multiple rental applications, so it’s essential to ensure that your application stands out. Be sure to highlight your positive qualities, such as stable employment, good credit score, and positive references.

Step 6: Sign Your Lease Agreement

If your rental application is approved, the final step is to sign your lease agreement. A lease agreement is a legally binding contract that outlines the terms and conditions of your rental agreement, such as the rent price, lease duration, and any restrictions or rules.

It’s crucial to read your lease agreement carefully before signing it and to ensure that you understand all the terms and conditions. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to ask your landlord or property manager.

In conclusion, finding a rental place in Toronto can be a daunting task. Keep in mind the current rental prices for different types of rental places in Toronto. Be cautious when using certain websites or platforms for your search.

Challenges for Immigrants

Finding a rental place in Toronto can be challenging for first-time immigrants. When we arrived in Canada, it took us over a month to find our first rental apartment. That too only after a cousin signed as the co-guarantor. Some of the common challenges that first-time immigrants may face when looking for rental places in Toronto include:

Lack of Credit History: Many landlords in Toronto require a credit check. Now this is to ensure that tenants are financially responsible and able to pay rent on time. However, first-time immigrants may not have a credit history in Canada. This makes it difficult for them to secure a rental place.
Language Barrier: For immigrants who are not fluent in English or French, communicating with landlords and real estate agents can be a significant challenge. This can result in misunderstandings, confusion, and even discrimination.
Lack of Familiarity with the Rental Market: The rental market in Toronto can be complex and competitive, and first-time immigrants may not be familiar with the different neighbourhoods, rental prices, and available rental options. This can make it difficult for them to find a suitable rental place.
Limited Access to Resources: First-time immigrants may not have access to the same resources and support networks as Canadian-born residents, such as family members, friends, or community organizations that can help them navigate the rental market.

The amount of time it takes to find a rental place in Toronto can vary depending on several factors, such as the rental budget, the desired location, and the availability of rental units. It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks or even months to find a suitable rental place.

Documents Required to Apply for a Rental Apartment

The documents required to rent a place in Toronto may vary depending on the landlord or property management company. However, some common documents that landlords may require include:

Proof of Income: This can include pay stubs, employment letters, or bank statements.
References: Landlords may require references from previous landlords, employers, or personal references.
Credit Check: As mentioned earlier, some landlords may require a credit check.
Identification: A government-issued ID, such as a passport or driver’s license, may be required.
Rental Application: Landlords may require tenants to fill out a rental application, which includes personal information and rental history.
First and Last Month’s Rent: Most landlords in Toronto require tenants to pay the first and last month’s rent upfront as a security deposit.

Resources to help you find accommodations in Toronto

Settlement Services: Many organizations in Toronto offer settlement services to newcomers, including assistance in finding housing. These organizations can provide information about the different types of housing available, including rental apartments, shared housing, and subsidized housing. They can also help you navigate the rental process and understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.
Online Listings: Several online listings such as Rentals.ca, Zumper, and Realtor have a large number of listings for rental apartments in Toronto.
Social Media Groups: Several social media groups on Facebook connect newcomers with people who are renting out rooms or apartments. However, please be aware of the scams. You can join these groups to find affordable accommodations or roommates.
Hostels: If you are looking for temporary accommodation, hostels can be a good option. Toronto has several hostels that offer affordable rates for short-term stays.
Government Programs: If you are a low-income newcomer, you may be eligible for government-subsidized housing. The City of Toronto’s Housing Connections program manages the centralized waiting list for subsidized housing in Toronto. You can apply online or in-person to be added to the waiting list.

Overall, there are many options available for newcomers to find accommodations in Toronto. It’s important to do your research, ask questions, and explore different options before making a decision.

In conclusion, finding a rental place in Toronto can be challenging for first-time immigrants due to various factors such as lack of credit history, language barriers, and limited access to resources. It is important for immigrants to do their research, seek out support networks, and be prepared with the necessary documents and financial resources when searching for rental places. While the amount of time it takes to find a rental place can vary, being patient, persistent, and proactive can increase the chances of finding a suitable rental place in Toronto.