Canada Guide: Housing & Rentals

Finding accommodation can be a time-consuming task, especially in a foreign country. Our housing guide explains where to look for appartments and accommodation, how to deal with local estate agents and what to bear in mind before signing a rental contract.

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  The housing market

  Finding a place to live in Canada

  In Canada the strong demand for housing and increasing house prices are driven by low interest rates, tight rental and real estate markets and strong economic foundations

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  Getting started

  How to prepare your housing search

  Finding appropriate accommodation in Canada that fits your budget and requirements can be a long and difficult task. The keys to success in finding the best place to live are planning your search with enough time and keeping patient!

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  Housing classifieds

  A wide range of possibilities

  Advertisements for rental apartments and other properties can be found in a variety of sources including online and print publications. They are usually located in the ‘for rent’ or ‘classifieds’ sections.

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  Appointments

  Visiting an apartment

  Make appointments to view rental apartments or houses as soon as possible when you see something interesting. If you delay, there is a bigger chance that the apartment you are interested in renting could be rented out to someone else.

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  Real Estate agents

  How to deal with assisted search services

  Real Estate agents are representatives from private companies that mostly deal in selling properties but can also perform rental services. They sometimes have the most attractive accommodation, as many property owners do not wish to spend time looking for and contracting tenants.

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  Flatshare and subletting

  Options on a tight budget

  If you are looking to stay in Canada for over three months, shared accommodation may be a cheaper option. You can often find other people in a similar situation and it’s a good way to meet new people.

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  Contracts

  All you need to know before signing a rental agreement

  Standard rental contracts are designed to protect your interests as well as those of the landlord. As it is usually the landlord or agent who provides the contract, it is important that you completely understand its implications.

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