🏠 1. Define Your Rental Preferences
- Determine your ideal location, property type, number of bedrooms, and parking needs.
- Check and confirm pet policies if applicable.
- Establish a realistic monthly budget, including rent, utilities, parking fees, and tenant insurance.
🤝 2. Work with a Licensed Real Estate Agent
- Share your rental requirements and desired move-in date with your agent.
- Your agent will search for matching listings and arrange property viewings on your behalf.
🏡 3. Visit and Evaluate Properties
- Attend in-person or virtual showings to explore potential homes.
- Ask key questions about utilities, included appliances, lease duration, and the surrounding area.
✍️ 4. Select a Property and Make an Offer
- With your agent’s guidance, prepare the Agreement to Lease (OREA Form 400).
- Be ready to provide a deposit for the first and last month’s rent upon offer submission.
📄 5. Provide Required Documentation
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of income (such as pay slips or an employment letter)
- Recent credit report
- Completed rental application form
- References, if requested by the landlord
🕵️ 6. Landlord Review and Decision
- The landlord will review your application, credit score, income verification, and references.
- Additional documents may be requested to support your application.
🧾 7. Sign the Lease Agreement
- Go through the lease terms carefully with your agent before signing.
- Confirm details such as start and end dates, rent amount, utilities, inclusions, and any special clauses.
💰 8. Pay the Deposit
- Send your first and last month’s rent via certified cheque, bank draft, or e-transfer.
- Funds are securely held in the brokerage’s trust account, and payment instructions will be provided.
🔐 9. Arrange Tenant Insurance and Utilities
- Set up tenant insurance and provide proof prior to key collection.
- Transfer all utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet, etc.) to your name, effective from the lease start date.
🚚 10. Move-In Day
- Complete a move-in inspection to record the condition of the property.
- Collect your keys and verify access to all areas such as parking, storage, and amenities.
