For newcomers and international students arriving in Canada, the real housing journey begins with finding long-term rental accommodation.
Though immigrants may start with a short-term rental, the hard work begins with finding that first rental.
Of course, doing the research before arriving in Canada is essential to help you prepare to compete in Canada’s tight, low-vacancy rental markets.
How to find rental accommodation in Canada for newcomers
But for real help and direction, many newcomers increasingly turn to Rentals for Newcomers.
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Why has this site become so popular with newcomers and international students seeking their first rental home in Canada?
The mission of Rentals for Newcomers is to help newcomers avoid headaches, heartaches, and expenses (both in time and money) in their rental search by promoting the landlords who value newcomers.
For immigrants arriving in Canada’s competitive rental market, sites like Rentals for Newcomers are invaluable.
An early 2023 National Rent Report from Rentals.ca showed that asking rents in Canada increased 9.7 percent year-over-year to an average of $1,984 in February.
Steady rent increases are predicted throughout 2023, primarily due to the influx of newcomers (and aspiring homeowners being unable to enter the homeownership market, despite falling prices and sales).
The competition for rental units is expected to tighten as more newcomers and international students arrive.
Canada plans to welcome 465,000 new immigrants this year after admitting a record-breaking 431,000 newcomers in 2022, mainly from India, the Philippines and China.
The country hopes to land 485,000 newcomers in 2024 and 500,000 in 2025. Canada has also welcomed a record number of international students, with those numbers continuing to rise.
Rental demand is unprecedented
“We are having unprecedented levels of demand that are met by very little vacancy,” says Jesse Greenwell, Head of Communications Culture and Inclusivity at Mainstreet Equity Corp., Canada’s leading real estate corporation on the TSX specializing in mid-market apartment buildings in Western Canada.
“Everything is so outpaced by the demand,” he said.
Newcomers urged to do research
What this means is that if you are a newcomer to Canada looking to rent, you need to do research BEFORE and AFTER arriving.
Canadian landlords won’t rent to you before you land, but knowing the rental landscape can help you more quickly find that first home.
And Rentals for Newcomers is a great place to research and find that rental.
Rentals for Newcomers information
In addition to hosting scores of rental listings from across Canada, Rentals for Newcomers also hosts invaluable information about:
The current, up-to-date rental prices in ALL of Canada’s major rental markets (for example, a one-bedroom apartment in Toronto rents for $2,501, while a one-bedroom in Saskatoon costs $1,063 monthly. That’s a difference of $1,438).
A comprehensive renter’s guide.
News stories on the latest trends in renting (and Canada’s dynamic housing market).
Links to the Monthly Housing Newsletter for Newcomers and International Students.
Tips from experts on how to deal with and impress Canadian landlords; how to avoid rental scams; how to rent without a credit history; how to save for a down payment to buy a home while renting, etc.
Expert advice on how finding accommodation and choosing a city to work in go hand-in-hand.
Tips and expert advice for international students about finding a rental (and when to start looking).
Advice on navigating Canada’s housing market from well-known Canadians such as Bob Dhillon, the founder of Mainstreet Equity Corp., and Farah Omran, Housing Economist for Scotiabank.
And so much more.
Rentals for Newcomers is an invaluable tool that will give you a head start in finding a rental, says Dave Frattini, managing partner of Prepare for Canada and Rentals for Newcomers.
Newcomers are urged to be prepared
“Vacancy rates in most cities across Canada are now hovering around 2 percent,” said Frattini, “meaning landlords have all the power in choosing the tenant they want. For newcomers, this means searching for accommodation in Canada is more difficult than ever.”
Frattini advises newcomers to prepare themselves by:
Understanding the type of accommodation that they’re looking for.
Understanding the reality of what rental prices genuinely are in the city where they plan to settle.
Having all their documents as they’re meeting potential landlords.
Frattini emphasizes that when newcomers they arrive for their meeting with the landlord, “they better be prepared. Landlords have the pick of the crop.”
“Rentals For Newcomers is a great example of a partner agency,” said Mainstreet’s Greenwell, which can help prepare newcomers and international students for Canada’s rental market.
Rental scammers target newcomers
Rentals for Newcomers also works diligently to ensure that scam listings are not on its site to protect newcomers and international students.
The RFN site is part of the Rentsync rental technology software network, which includes a landlord verification process.
Rental listings are verified
“Importantly, our listings are well managed,” said Frattini. “It’s both technologically and manually driven. Rentsync personnel know who the (landlords) are that are listing on Rentals for Newcomers.”
Frattini added that “We’re working diligently to educate our audience on scam alerts. Through Rentals for Newcomers’ blog posts, we’re constantly updating our audience about scams in the rental category.”
If you’re active on social media, you can also follow RFN on Twitter (@rentalsfornewc), Facebook (Rentals for Newcomers) and Instagram (rentalsfornewcomers) and LinkedIn (Rentals For Newcomers).
*No Chat GPT was used in the writing of this story, and all sources are cited and credited where possible
Working with a real estate agent is a reliable alternative way for newcomers to Canada to find their first long-term rental accommodation.
Why should newcomers consider working with a real estate agent (also known as a realtor) to find a rental?
Demand, competition, expertise, and access to landlords are four obvious reasons (also, doing it by yourself in a new country can create a lot of stress, delay, and wasted effort).
Immigration helps drive rental demand
In Canada’s red-hot rental market, the demand for all types of rental accommodation has never been higher.
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The country’s ambitious immigration targets are absolutely fuelling rental demand as prices rise each month. And that demand will only get stronger across the country, but particularly in Toronto, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and Ontario.
Canada intends to welcome 465,000 new immigrants this year after admitting a record-breaking 431,000 newcomers in 2022 (mostly from India, the Philippines and China).
In 2024 that number will rise to 485,000 newcomers, and then to 500,000 in 2025.
Competition for rentals is fierce
Canada has also welcomed a record number of international students. These numbers are forecast to continue to rise, again increasing the demand for rental housing.
With so many newcomers arriving in Canada, the competition for available rental accommodation continues to escalate. Typically, rental listings in Canada (particularly those with choice locations) receive multiple offers from newcomers and those already living in Canada. And many of those applicants have done their research and are prepared to act quickly.
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Real estate agents have expertise
Real estate agents have the expertise that newcomers can use to get exactly the kind of rental accommodation they want, where they want it, and when they want it.
According to the Real Estate Council of Ontario, in which membership is mandatory for all real estate professionals in Ontario, there are more than 86,000 real estate agents in the province.
Using a real estate agent to help you find your ideal rental property typically costs nothing. Your future landlord (the actual owner of the property) covers the realtor commissions.
In Ontario and the GTA, more renters are using real estate agents because realtors:
Are members of a regulated profession in Ontario and must register with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO), which regulates the trade of real estate on behalf of the Ontario government.
Check for new rental listings constantly so you can be among the first to see any new rentals available.
Understand and can recommend the neighbourhoods that would best suit your needs (schools, transportation, etc.).
Have longstanding relationships with landlords
Can more easily get you multiple viewings of the rentals in your price range and speed up your search and the rental process.
Can reduce the number of viewings allowing you to concentrate on work or school, and adjust to life in Canada.
Understand and can negotiate lease terms with the landlord
Will explain the terms and conditions of your rental agreement and make sure you understand your tenant obligations and responsibilities (for example, renter’s insurance).
Organize your deposit, monthly rental cheques, tenant insurance, utilities, and key exchange before you take possession.
Ensure your rental is in good condition and record any existing damage in advance
Will keep in touch with you to make sure everything is running smoothly. Smart agents know that you may eventually buy a home, and they’d obviously like to have you as a client.
Finally, the realtor’s access to landlords and listings cannot be overstated. Because of this access, realtors know about rental properties that aren’t listed on rental sites, or that are about to be listed. So, you get a head start on the competition. This is particularly true regarding Toronto/GTA condo owners who often work only through real estate agents.
These are just some of the advantages that come with working with a real estate agent.
Other factors to consider
While real estate agents in Ontario are licensed, there are still some other things newcomers should consider when deciding to work with one to find a rental:
You will be working with a second party (the realtor). If you are the type of person who likes to have total control over every step in the rental process, this arrangement might not be for you.
Realtors have multiple clients, and their main focus is obviously on selling houses, so at times, they may be busy with other clients. Be sure to discuss this with the agent.
Ensure that the realtor knows the market where you’re hoping to live. Good two-way communication helps.
Ensure you discuss ALL fees and how they are paid (again, in Ontario, typically by the property owner) upfront with your realtor to avoid surprises. While the owner of the rental property typically covers the agent’s fees, some agents MIGHT ask you for a fee upfront to begin the process.
Show up on time for viewings and avoid cancelling at the last minute. Cancelling last minute is unacceptable and will show disrespect to the realtor and the landlord. So, be sure to communicate effectively.
Be sure to have proof of employment, proof of funds, proper documents, proof of banking, etc. before you engage with a real estate agent.
Prepare for Canada and Rentals for Newcomers has teamed up with Souqh, a real estate fintech solutions company, to make it easy for newcomers and international students to work with a licensed real estate agent to find suitable rental accommodation.
Souqh is a Canadian real estate and home services marketplace whose goal is to simplify every step of the home buying, ownership, and rental journey.
Connecting newcomers with realtors
Ahmer Rafiq, Souqh’s CEO, says his company partnered with Prepare for Canada and Rentals for Newcomers “to connect immigrants with realtors and assist with finding rentals across Ontario.”
“We have onboard 3,000+ real estate/home services professionals onto our marketplace across Ontario and … we have partnered with ten real estate boards and associations across Ontario.”
“Prepare for Canada has been helping newcomers make connections that simplify the immigration journey for over 12 years, said Frattini, “and Souqh is Canada’s real estate and home services marketplace. Together we’re on a mission to help newcomers enter the rental market faster and easier than ever before by connecting newcomers with real estate agents who can assist in finding the rental property that’s right for our newcomer audience needs.”
How to register
So, if working with realtors to find accommodation in Ontario appeals to you, simply click here to register with Souqh. Once you register, a real estate agent in the city where you wish to rent will respond to you.
And remember: If you’re not in Canada or Ontario yet, but are arriving soon, please register for our Renting in Canada webinar to learn all about working with a real estate agent, finding your own rental, renting a room in a home, and all the other options for finding rental accommodation in Ontario and Canada.
*No AI-generated content was used in creating this article, and all sources are cited and linked where possible.
Even if you had insurance before you arrived in Canada, knowing about the different kinds of insurance available to you before you arrive is important.
For newcomers to Canada and international students, understanding commonly-used insurance terms and their meanings is important. As the @InsuranceBureau suggests, if you don't understand, just ask your broker. @Prepare4Canadahttps://t.co/ADo8M2lEKq
— rentalsfornewcomers (@rentalsfornewc) July 14, 2022
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For example, the first type of insurance most newcomers need to understand is . Most landlords require it (we explain below). And then there’s . And for those who purchase a car for work or travel auto insurance is a must.
WHY DO NEWCOMERS NEED INSURANCE?
Insurance is one of the key ways that newcomers to Canada can manage risks. Things can go wrong. Accidents happen. Floods happen. And you don’t want to start over financially from scratch. So, when you purchase insurance, you transfer the cost of a potential loss to the insurance company in exchange for a fee (known as the premium). Insurance companies invest the funds securely, so they can grow, and pay out when there’s a claim.
Broker vs Agent: An insurance broker is not the same thing as an insurance agent. Brokers know how insurance policies work and have access to more options than an agent. This lets them pick the best rates for the coverage you need from a wide variety of insurance companies. Read Here.
What are insurance premiums: Simply, an insurance premium is the amount of money you or your business pays for an insurance policy. Insurance premiums are paid for policies that cover things like healthcare, auto, rental, home, and life insurance. Read Here.
Why do I need risk insurance: Basically, risk insurance protects your home and property from, well, “risks and perils.” It covers property damage or loss arising from accidents or unforeseeable incidents (flood, sewer backup, frozen pipes, etc.) except for those that are specifically excluded. Read Here.
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TENANT INSURANCE
When renting a home, you do not own the property, but you likely own the contents
But the landlord has insurance: This is true but that only covers the building you’re living in. It does not cover your family’s belongings. The landlord’s insurance can’t always protect you from everything that could wrong in your new home in Canada. Renters insurance does. Read Here.
To discover more about Tenant Insurance, click here.
TRAVEL/MEDICAL INSURANCE
Protecting your travel plans and your health is important
Canada is renowned for its healthcare system, and quality healthcare is one of the reasons newcomers seek to build a life here. Government health insurance programs like OHIP in Ontario and AHCIP in Alberta let you apply for coverage once you arrive in Canada and establish your permanent residency. But it is a smart idea to buy visitor travel insurance to cover those unexpected medical expenses before you and your family are included in a government health insurance program. Without it, you could end up paying significant out-of-pocket expenses.
What’s the difference between provincial health plans and medical insurance? Once you arrive in Canada and establish your permanent residency government health insurance programs allow you to apply for coverage. But, in some provinces there is a wait period before you are eligible for government health insurance. That’s where private insurance coverage is a good idea for both temporary visitors to Canada and people on the path to becoming permanent residents and Canadian citizens.
Who is eligible for visitor to Canada insurance? Buying travel insurance can be particularly challenging for newcomers and international students and it requires navigating the process with risk factors related to age and pre-existing health conditions. Finding the coverage that is right for you is important, so knowing the basic requirements that you or a loved one need to meet to purchase a Canadian travel insurance policy is vital. Read Here.
Choosing the right policy: When it comes to purchasing travel insurance, there’s no one size fits all coverage solution. As a newcomer to Canada, you need to be sure to understand your options and then figure out how to select the right coverage based on key factors like your age, dependants, health status, and deductible preference.
To discover more about Travel/Medical Insurance
CAR INSURANCE
At some point, most newcomers to Canada purchase a car, whether for getting to work, getting around town to get things done or travelling. In Canada, you MUST have car insurance if you own a car or other vehicle. This insurance is designed to protect you from having to pay to repair your car or another vehicle if it’s damaged or in an accident and from liability claims if you’re held responsible for an accident that causes damage to another person’s vehicle or injury to other people. Again, car insurance is a must if you own a vehicle.
10 facts about auto insurance: Car insurance can be complicated and here’s a list of things that can get you started and help you as a newcomer to Canada understand how it works. Read Here.
Understanding why auto insurance is mandatory: In Ontario, every vehicle is required to be protected by an insurance policy. The monetary fines for not having insurance are severe plus your driver’s license could be suspended for a year and your vehicle impounded for up to three months if you are caught driving without insurance. It’s important that you understand which car insurance is mandatory in order to be fully protected. Read Here.
What does car insurance cover? An auto insurance policy is an in-depth document that describes in detail what each section protects. Always be sure to consult an insurance professional if you have any specific questions about your coverage. Read Here.
Which cities in Ontario have the highest insurance rates? While this might not be a deal breaker when choosing the city where you wish to live and work in Canada, it’s always good to know where and why auto insurance is more expensive. Read Here.
Can I insure a vehicle that is not in my name? That’s a good question for newcomers – and it’s complicated. There definitely are several different scenarios where someone, perhaps a family member or friend, might ask you to insure a car, not in your name. As always, consult an insurance professional. Read Here.
To discover more about Auto Insurance, click here.
HOMEOWNER INSURANCE
Did you know that most newcomers to Canada buy a home within 3 to 5 years of arriving? It’s true. And for most of us, it’s the single major purchase we make in our lives. So, it’s a good idea to become familiar with homeowners’ insurance. It’s an important part of your financial security net, and in many cases a requirement if you have a mortgage. Knowing how much you’ll have to pay for your coverage should be factored into where and what you buy.
Do home insurance costs vary across Ontario? Yes, they do. There is a median value for all of Ontario but this can be misleading as there are many factors that contribute to your homeowner’s premium.
Home insurance and natural disasters: Yes, natural disasters – ice storms in February to flooding in April to wildfires in August— happen in Canada and they can be devastating for your life. Home insurance helps protect you and your family from the potential life-altering aftereffects.
What is all-risk insurance? All risk is one of two types of home insurance; the other is known as a “named perils” policy. The main difference is that a “named perils” policy only covers potential instances that are listed (anything else isn’t covered), whereas an “all-risk” policy covers just about everything except for specifically named exceptions.
What is mortgage insurance? Mortgage insurance (not to be confused with home insurance) sometimes called home buyer’s insurance in Canada, is a way to help you spend less upfront yet still afford your home. Mortgage insurance helps you secure your home sooner rather than later by lowering the down payment you must make.
Basic living costs for homebuyers: No matter where you choose to live in Canada as a newcomer, these are essential living expenses for almost ALL first-time homeowners. Read Here.
To discover more about Home Insurance, click here.
BUSINESS INSURANCE
Why do I need it? For newcomers to Canada who are entrepreneurs, business insurance can sometimes seem like an extra burden. Some business owners don’t consider small business insurance a necessity, but the fact is that even if you don’t have inventory or a retail location, your company still has financial and legal risks.
To discover more about Business Insurance, click here.
PET INSURANCE
She’s so cute but what if she bites a guest?
Increasingly, newcomers to Canada are arriving with pets (we love pets!). Dogs, cats and whatever. And also increasingly, pet insurance has become more important, both in terms of pet health and owner liability.
Dogs and Home insurance: Your dog is legally your “property” which can come with a fair amount of liability exposure if you’re not careful. For that reason, dog bites usually fall under the purview of your personal liability insurance, which is a part of your home insurance policy. It’s because of this liability exposure that it’s important to advise your insurance broker (and landlord!) that you have a dog.
Pet Health insurance explained: Finding the best pet health insurance depends on what your pet’s situation is and what kind of coverage you’re looking for. Despite its growing popularity, only 20 companies offer pet insurance in North America in 2020.
