Renters Guide

 

Here are some questions and information you should consider before signing the rental or lease agreement.

  1. Should I Rent or Buy?
  2. Top 10 Rental Questions you should consider when looking for a rental unit.
  3. Useful Tips You Should Know.
  4. What you should look out for.
  5. What are you rights?

  1. Should I Rent or Buy?

    Some of the factors to consider when deciding whether to rent or buy are:

    What is your current job situation and the likelihood you are to move again?

    What are the initial and monthly costs of renting vs. buying? And costs of one rental vs. another rental?

    What, if any, are the tax savings and advantages of renting vs. buying?

    Is there available housing that matches your lifestyle?

    What is the desirability of these houses?

    What are the current interest rates and mortgages available?

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  3. Top 10 Rental Questions you should consider when looking for a rental unit.
    1. How much can I afford to pay?
    2. What are the available listings in my area?
    3. What is the average rent?
    4. How much will my deposit be? Are there special conditions I must pay for up front?
    5. What type of contract is the lease? Are there any specific notices?
    6. How long do I intend to rent? What should the length of agreement be?
    7. Have I identified important characteristics of my rental property that I want to have?
    8. Do I have good credit?
    9. Do they allow pets? What, if any, is the additional charge/deposit for pets?
    10. When can I move in? How long is the application period? Is there a waiting list?
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  5. Useful Tips You Should Know

    Rental agreements are usually negotiable, so don't be afraid to ask about special discounts and offer a lower amount than the listed price.

    Be sure that all contract stipulations are in writing and agreed to by both parties, i.e. - who is responsible for cleaning the carpet, etc.

    Be sure to check that the lifestyle of others in your rental complex is compatible with yours.

    Be sure to check about tenant services, i.e. - garbage pickup, etc.

    What are the Initial Costs?

    Initial costs on a rental property usually include:

    1. One month's rent security deposit.
    2. Additional deposits if you have a pet (many rentals do not allow pets).
    3. First month's rent and/or last month's rent depending on the area.
    4. Application fee of generally $20-75.

    Be sure to get renter's insurance; if you don't, your personal belongings will not be protected in the event of a burglary, fire or any other loss.

    When Contacting the Landlord
    • Make notes on the details outlined in the listing or click on Printable Version for a page printout of the listing.
    • Prepare a list of questions you would like to ask about the rental unit.
    • Know your schedule so that you may set up an appointment to view the accommodations.
    • Identify yourself and the reason for your call when you contact the landlord.
    • Confirm that the information you have is correct, and make note of any new information.
    • The phone call is your opportunity to learn as much as you can about the accommodation.
    • If you are still interested in the unit, make an appointment to see it as soon as possible.
    • Ask for directions as to how to get there. Note, the Printable Version comes with a map or you can simply click on MapIt to see a map of the surrounding area.

    Helpful Hints When Inspecting the Unit
    • What are the monthly or weekly payments?
    • Are utilities included?
    • Who has controls of the thermostat?
    • Is a lease required? If so, how long is the lease period?
    • What floor is the unit on?
    • Where are the Stairs and Elevators in proximity to the Unit?
    • How many bedrooms/rooms are there?
    • Are there enough cupboard/closet space for you, and your roommate(s) if applicable?
    • Is there a balcony/yard?
    • Are there proper locks installed on the doors?
    • Is the fridge and stove included? Are they in working order?
    • How is the plumbing: leaky pipes, water pressure?
    • Is there hot water?
    • Who pays for it?
    • Does the toilet flush?
    • Are the windows secure and safe?
    • How is the lighting?
    • Does the unit include parking?
    • Is the unit close to public transit and amenities?
    • Are there laundry facilities?
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  6. What you should look out for.

    Make sure that the landlord has proof of ownership of the property. DO NOT give money until you are satisfied with the proof of ownership and a contract has been signed.

    It is best to view an apartment with a companion.
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  7. What are you rights:

    You can access information about your rights as a tenant through the Ontario Rental Housing Tribunal Web Site. (http://www.orht.gov.on.ca/scripts/index_.asp)

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