1. Set Your Budget
- Know your housing budget: aim for 30-35% of your net income.
- Account for additional costs: utilities, internet, renters insurance, laundry, TTC pass.
- First + last month's rent is standard. Also budget for moving expenses, deposits, and basic
furniture.
- Use budgeting tools like Mint or YNAB to track costs.
- Average rent in 2025: 1-bedroom downtown ~$2,400; Scarborough ~$1,800; Etobicoke ~$2,000.
2. Choose the Right Neighbourhood
- Proximity to TTC/Subway lines saves time and money.
- Look up school zones (if applicable), grocery options, safety stats (Toronto Police crime maps).
- Explore lesser-known gems: Crescent Town, Weston, Oakridge.
- Compare GO Train commute cost vs city rent (e.g., Pickering vs Scarborough).
- Use Reddit (r/TorontoRenting) for local gossip on specific buildings.
3. Prepare Your Rental Package
- Credit Report: Use Equifax or Borrowell (free).
- Income Proof: Job letter, 2-3 recent pay stubs, or tax returns (self-employed).
- ID: Government-issued ID and SIN (optional to share).
- References: Past landlord or roommate. Template: 'This tenant paid on time, quiet, responsible.'
- Rental Bio: One-paragraph intro about yourself. Include why you're moving, what you do, and
rental history.
4. Apartment Hunting Tips
- Check: BelowTheMarket.ca , FB marketplace, Kijiji, Realtors.ca
- Avoid scams: Never wire money or send deposit before lease signing.
- Best time to search: Tuesdays-Thursdays, early morning. Avoid month-end scramble.
- Offer value: Be flexible on move-in date or sign a longer lease.
- Document every unit you see - pros/cons, photos, questions.
5. Questions to Ask During a Viewing
- What's included in rent? (Hydro? Water? Parking?)
- When was the unit last renovated?
- Have there been pest issues in the unit or building?
- Who handles repairs? Is there a superintendent?
- What's the policy on subletting, guests, smoking, and pets?
- Ask: Why did the last tenant move out?
6. Inspecting the Unit
- Turn on all faucets to check water pressure and heat.
- Open all windows and doors. Do locks work?
- Look under sinks and behind appliances for signs of leaks or pests.
- Check floor for soft spots or damage.
- Use a tape measure to ensure your furniture fits.
- Bonus: Google the landlord or property manager for reviews.
7. Understanding the Lease
- Fixed-term vs month-to-month: Know the difference.
- Rent increases: Only allowed once per 12 months at Ontario guideline.
- Watch out for illegal clauses (e.g., "no guests," key deposits, eviction threats).
- N11 = Mutual Agreement to End Tenancy. N12 = Owner/Family Move-in. N13 = Renoviction.
- Ask for a copy of the lease BEFORE signing. Read it all.
8. Tenant Rights in Ontario
- 24-hour written notice required before landlord entry.
- You can't be evicted without a valid reason through the Landlord & Tenant Board (LTB).
- Above-guideline increases (AGI) require LTB approval.
- Illegal to demand key deposits or mandatory cleaning fees.
- Resources: ACTO.ca, StepsToJustice.ca, LTB.ca
- File a T2 application if landlord violates your rights.
9. Moving Day Essentials
- Book moving truck + elevator (if condo).
- Protect walls and floors - some condos require a damage deposit.
- Set up: HydroOne, Enbridge (gas), Rogers/Bell/TekSavvy (internet).
- Update your address with banks, CRA, ServiceOntario, and subscriptions.
- Take photos BEFORE unpacking - every wall, floor, and appliance.
10. After You Move In
- Test smoke detectors, door locks, heating/cooling systems.
- Email landlord a checklist of any damages with photos.
- Save rent payment receipts (email confirmations, e-transfers).
- Build a friendly relationship with your landlord or building manager.
- Know your emergency contacts: plumbing, heating, lockouts.
BONUS: Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Listings with no photos or copied descriptions.
- Landlord avoids in-person viewings or lease signing.
- Unit looks different than photos when you arrive.
- Asked to wire money or pay in crypto - instant red flag.
- High-pressure tactics like 'Other tenants are waiting, send deposit now.'
Resources & Hotlines
- Landlord & Tenant Board: tribunalsontario.ca/ltb
- ACTO Tenant Hotline: 1-866-245-4182
- RentSafeTO for apartment complaints: toronto.ca/rentsafe
- Free legal aid: StepsToJustice.ca
- BelowTheMarket.ca - Curated listings and rental guides.