Preparing to rent

When renting a home, you might have expenses for rent in advance, the services of a rental search agent, and a credit check. For a full breakdown of the estimated costs, we recommend that you review the relocation directive, and your financial budget, available on Your Move Profile.

Here are some tips to help you with your rental property search.

• Tip #1 – Use a rental search agent. Rental search firms are available in most locations and offer personal, one-on-one service to help you find a property that meets your requirements. To narrow your search and pick out homes that fall within your constraints, a rental search agent notes your needs and financial restrictions. They also arrange appointments to see properties and assist with lease negotiations, simplifying the often hectic HHT period and making the most of the time you have available. Use the Suppliers section of Your Move Profile to help choose a qualified rental search agent who has agreed to the ceiling rates and service delivery standards of the CAF contract.
• Tip #2 – Choose your rental type. There are different types of rental properties: apartments, townhouses, and single family homes. Before you decide, consider your lifestyle, the area you’re looking for, and price. Discuss your needs and preferences with your family to make a decision that makes sense for everyone. For a detailed breakdown of all the things you should be thinking of as you set out on your home search, watch the Choosing a Neighbourhood VIP.
• Tip #3 – Establish your price range at the start. This will focus your rental search to the most suitable units. Ensure your expectations are realistic for the new location by comparing your desired price range with the average rental rates. Always ask about possible extra monthly costs. For example, some properties include the monthly cost for utilities or parking costs in the rent; for other properties, these are an additional expense.
• Tip #4 – Understand the terms of the lease. There are different types of leases: fixed term leases meaning the tenancy is for a set period of time, month-to-month leases which typically allow you to terminate the lease with sufficient notice, transfer of an existing lease with the previous tenant, or even subletting from a current tenant. Making sure you are aware of the terms of the lease will ensure there is no misunderstanding of what you are agreeing to.
• Tip #5 – Have your financial information in order. You may have to pay both first and last month’s rent in cash, so confirm your daily withdrawal limit to ensure you won’t exceed it. As part of confirming your new lease, you may be required to provide specific documentation; obtain a copy of the applicable Provincial Landlord and Tenant publication in advance to verify what may be asked of you. Your previous landlord’s name, address, and telephone number may be needed for a character/financial reference.
• Tip #6 – Document the original condition of the home. To avoid disputes at the termination of your lease, you and the landlord (or their agent) should complete and sign a Rental Unit Condition Report before you take possession. Each party should keep a copy of the report for reference at the end of the tenancy.

We expect you have more questions. Your Knowledge Centre on Your Move Profile is an invaluable tool for other relocation information and guidance: other VIPs, fact sheets, and FAQs. The Rental Property section of the Relocation Directive has all the information you will need on potential rental benefits. Take the time to review all the information available and familiarize yourself with what you’re eligible for.

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