Not all rentals include the same things in the rental price. Some properties include heat and water, while others don’t. Electricity (which is called hydro in Ontario) is often paid by the tenant. Internet, cable, and phone services are almost always extra.

Parking is another detail to check carefully. In condos, parking may cost extra or may not be available at all. Before signing a lease, it’s important to confirm what is included in the rent.

Your real estate agent can help you confirm all the details so that there are no surprises later.

Your rent is only one part of your housing cost. You should also plan for tenant insurance, utilities, internet, parking, and, depending on the property, snow removal or laundry fees.

Tenant insurance is usually required and is generally affordable. Utilities can vary depending on the size of the home and its energy efficiency. When planning your budget, leave some room for these additional costs.

Many newcomers begin by renting condos near public transit, purpose-built rental buildings, or basement apartments in suburban neighbourhoods. These options often offer a good balance between cost, convenience, and flexibility.

Some renters choose to live farther from Toronto to get more space for their money, while others prefer being close to work or public transit. Your first rental does not have to be perfect. It just needs to work for your current stage.

In many GTA neighbourhoods, good rental homes are leased quickly. It’s not unusual for landlords to receive multiple applications, especially for well-priced properties.

This means it’s important to be prepared when looking for a place to rent. Knowing your budget, having all documents ready, and acting quickly when you find the right place can make the difference between getting the perfect place and spending days looking for something else.

Most landlords will ask for identification, proof of employment or income, a credit report, and references. This helps them determine whether rent payments will be paid on time.

It usually takes several days to get employment paperwork from your workplace, so make sure to prepare these in advance. You don’t want to find the right place and then be stuck waiting for employment documents before you can submit an offer.

If you’re new to Canada, not having Canadian credit is common and usually manageable. Landlords may accept an employment letter, proof of savings, references from previous landlords, or several months of rent paid in advance. Each situation is different, and having guidance during this step can help you present your application in the strongest possible way.

In Ontario, most residential leases use the Residential Tenancy Agreement. In many cases, rent increases are regulated, and tenants have many legal protections under the Residential Tenancies Act.

Typically, leases start with a one-year term. After that, many rentals automatically continue on a month-to-month basis.

You can click to read a Guide to the Residential Tenancies Act.

Most long-term rentals in the GTA are unfurnished, which means you’re responsible for your own furniture and household items. In most cases, appliances are included, but there may be properties where you will need to bring your own, so make sure to confirm this with the landlord.

Furnished rentals do exist, especially in downtown areas or short-term situations, but they usually cost more. If you’re moving from another country, planning for this early can make your transition smoother.

Short-term rentals can be helpful when you first arrive and want time to explore neighbourhoods. They allow flexibility but often come at a higher monthly cost.

One-year leases usually offer better value and stability. Many newcomers choose to rent short-term at first, then move into a longer lease once they understand the area better.

Renting can be a smart first step when relocating to the GTA. It gives you time to learn neighbourhoods, travel times, and price differences before making a long-term decision.

Many buyers feel more confident purchasing a home after they’ve lived in the area and understand what matters most to them.

RE/MAX Team Paliwal works with many newcomers and relocating families across the GTA. We help you understand rental pricing, compare neighbourhoods, and avoid common mistakes that first-time renters often make.

Our goal is to help you find a rental that fits your budget, lifestyle, and future plans. If you’d like guidance or have questions about where to start, our team is always happy to help you navigate the process.

Book a free no-obligation consultation with us, in person or over Zoom, and we’ll help you get started right away.