Renting a Place to Live

Most newcomers rent an apartment as their first permanent home in Ontario. Take some time to think about where and how you want to live. Know what you want and how much you can afford to pay before you start looking for a place to live.

What do I need to know about renting a home?
Most newcomers rent an apartment as their first home in Ontario. If you rent a place, you have the right to live in it, but do not own it.

How can I find an apartment or house to rent?
Take some time to think about where and how you want to live. It is best to look at a few places before deciding on one.

Where should I live in Ontario?
Your decision can affect your entire experience of immigrating to Canada.

What are the apartment vacancy rates in Ontario?
The apartment vacancy rates are very different across Ontario.

What is the average cost of an apartment in Ontario?
The cost of renting an apartment will depend on the size (bedrooms) and the area you choose to live in.

How do I find shared housing?
Shared housing can be an apartment or house that you share with another person, or another family.

What should I do when I have found some apartments I'm interested in viewing?
Once you have found a few apartments that interest you, you will need to telephone the landlord to get more information.

How do I rent an apartment/house once I've found one I like?
Once you decide to rent a place, the landlord will ask you for basic information about where you live and work.

What are some common barriers faced by new immigrants looking for housing?
Some landlords may refuse to rent to you for reasons related to you being a new immigrant.

I have very low income and am finding it difficult to pay my monthly rent. What can I do?
Finding an affordable place to live, especially for people with larger families, is becoming more and more difficult. It is still possible, however, you should get the help of community agencies in your local area that will have more information.

What is subsidized housing?
Subsidized or rent-geared-to-income housing refers to all types of housing where the amount of rent paid is determined by the tenant's income and not by the size or type of accommodation.

What housing help can government-sponsored refugees get?
Before you travel to Canada, Citizenship and Immigration Canada will refer you to a reception centre in the area where you plan to settle. The reception centre will have a room prepared for you when you first arrive.

What words do I need to know about renting?
Commonly used words include guarantor, rent deposit, social housing, tenancy period and arrears.

What is the weather like in Ontario?
Ontario is a large province. The weather depends on the area. The further north you are in Ontario, the colder it can get.

What does it cost for a family of three to live in Canada?
It is not easy to provide a specific monthly expense for you and your family. Living expenses vary from city to city in Canada.

Renting a Place to Live

Related Articles