Finding the perfect student accommodation is a vital part of the university experience. But, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. This overview will help you understand your housing options and important factors to consider before you leave for Canada. From determining your budget and location preferences to understanding different types of student housing, you’ll get smart tips to help you choose student accommodation that meets all of your needs.

Whether you’re looking for a dorm room, shared apartment, or private rental, our guide will equip you with the knowledge and resources to make an informed decision. We’ll also highlight important considerations such as safety, amenities, and proximity to campus.

With this guide, you’ll have everything you need to find the perfect student accommodation that fits your lifestyle and preferences and enhances your university experience.

Why is it Important to Find the Perfect Student Accommodation?

Choosing the right student accommodation is more than just finding a place to live. It is about creating a safe and comfortable environment that will allow you to thrive academically and socially. Your student accommodation will be your home for the next few years, and it is essential to choose a place that meets all your needs.

Your accommodation can impact your academic performance. Living in an environment that is conducive to studying can make a significant difference in your grades. A comfortable and quiet space can help you focus and concentrate on your studies. Your student accommodation can also impact your social life. Living in a place that is close to campus and social amenities can make it easier to participate in extracurricular activities and make new friends.

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Factors to Consider When Choosing Student Accommodation

Choosing the right housing can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some factors to consider when choosing student accommodation:

What’s Your Budget?

The first step to help you find suitable student accommodation is to consider your monthly budget. Once you determine how much you can afford, you can start your search for housing.  Consider your living expenses, including rent, utilities, groceries, entertainment, and transit costs. It’s essential to budget for all expenses to manage financial stress and focus on your studies. 

If you plan to work part-time in Canada, you can generate extra income and help cover your housing costs. However, most students still have to pay close attention to their budget when searching for student accommodation. 

International students can work up to 20 hours per week if:

•  Your study permit allows it
•  You have a Social Insurance Number, and 
• You meet other eligibility requirements. 

How Much is Student Housing in Canada?

The price of student housing depends on factors such as the city, neighbourhood,  type of housing, on-campus versus off-campus housing, etc. Sharing accommodation is likely the most affordable option. Generally, you can expect to rent a room in the range of  $500 – $1,000 per month if you are sharing accommodation. However, if you are attending school in a large city such as Toronto or Vancouver, you can expect to pay higher rent.  If you’re searching for student housing in a smaller city, the cost will likely be lower. 

Is the Location Convenient and Safe?

Location is another critical factor to consider when choosing student accommodation. Living close to campus can be convenient, especially if you have early morning classes. 

The travel distance to school may be a critical deciding factor for you. Or, you may be swayed by lower-cost student accommodation located further away from school. However, if the travel time and distance are significant, it may cost you more time and money. Check local public transit schedules and routes to ensure travel time and cost are reasonable.  

Living in a safe and secure neighbourhood is essential for your well-being. Consider the proximity of your accommodation to public transit, social amenities, grocery stores, pharmacies, and healthcare facilities

What Type of Student Accommodation Do You Need?

There are different types of student accommodation available, including dormitories, shared apartments, and private rentals. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages. Consider your lifestyle and preferences when choosing the type of accommodation that suits you best.

Student Accommodation Options

There are different student accommodation options available. Here are some of the most common options:

On-Campus Housing (Residence or Dormitory)

Living on-campus in a dormitory (also known as dorms) is a common type of student accommodation. Dorms can provide students with a private or shared room. Living in a dorm can be a great way to meet new people and participate in campus life. And, living with fellow students can provide a supportive environment that encourages academic success.

Dorms are usually affordable and include amenities such as common areas, laundry facilities, and study spaces.

However, living in a dormitory can have its challenges. You may have to share living spaces with several other students, which can be noisy and disruptive. Moreover, dormitories can be restrictive in terms of rules and regulations.

Off-Campus Student Housing (Private Rentals)

Private rentals are another option for students. Usually found off-campus, living in a private rental can offer more privacy and independence. Compared to living in a dorm, private rentals are generally more flexible in terms of rules and regulations. 

Apartments are often the first choice when it comes to private rentals. However, you may want to explore other types of housing such as homes, townhouses, and basement apartments. 

Living in a private rental can be expensive, and you may have to cover additional expenses for furniture and small appliances. To manage high rental costs, many students opt to share accommodation. 

You can also search for rentals in student-friendly neighbourhoods that surround colleges and universities. These neighbourhoods can provide accommodation that is close to campus, and offer easy-on-the-wallet restaurants, pubs, cafes, and shopping. Look for rental listings that indicate how close it is to the school that you plan to attend.  

Homestay

A homestay allows international students to live with local families instead of living with other students in Canada. Homestay hosts can include couples, families with children, retirees, and individuals. While there are different homestay options to consider, generally you can expect a private bedroom with room for your clothing, a quiet place to study, internet, laundry facilities, and meals. 

Hosts are also expected to provide safe accommodation and introduce their guests to Canadian life and culture.

Universities can pair international students with host families or retirees within the local community who may have space in their homes to rent out at an affordable rate.

Shared Accommodation

Sharing accommodation off-campus is another popular option for students. ed apartments are another popular option for students. Living in a shared apartment can be a great way n excellent way to live independently while still having the support of roommates. Sharing accommodation can also help you create meaningful relationships and foster a sense of community.

However, living in a shared apartment can have its challenges. You may have to deal with conflicts with roommates, and you may have to manage expenses such as rent and utilities. Be sure to assess potential housemates to determine if they would be a suitable match for your personality, study habits, and lifestyle. 

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Tips to Find Affordable Student Accommodation

Finding affordable student accommodation can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips to help you find affordable student accommodation. 

Start Your Search Early:

Searching for student housing, or housing in general, takes time, especially if you want to find the perfect student home. It’s best to search for housing about two months before you plan to move in. This will give you plenty of time to browse the market and come to an agreement with the landlord

Check Rental Sites Often:

New rental listings are posted daily on rental sites.  You can start your search for off-campus student accommodation that is within your budget at Rentals for Newcomers.

Consider Sharing Accommodation:

Discover how to find shared accommodation with Sparrow and manage your student accommodation costs.

Be Ready to Compromise:

Once you get an idea of rental costs, you may find it difficult to find exactly what you want at a price that fits your budget. A good way to move forward is to list things you’re willing to compromise. 

Look for Student-specific Housing Options:

Student housing options are often found in neighbourhoods adjacent to colleges and universities and are often budget-friendly. You may even be able to find rentals that offer incentives, discounts, and gift cards specifically for students.

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Questions to Ask When Viewing Student Accommodation

When viewing potential student accommodation, be sure to ask the right questions to ensure that it meets all your needs. Here are some questions to consider: 

• What’s included in the rent (i.e. cable, internet, heat, water, and electricity)? This can significantly reduce your housing costs. 
• What amenities are available? (i.e. onsite laundry, exercise room, swimming pool, security, etc)
• What are the lease terms?
• Is the building quiet?
• How safe is this neighbourhood?

What to Look for in Student Housing

Whether you visit student homes in person or online, these are helpful tips to keep in mind:

• Make sure everything looks clean. If the home is dirty and poorly maintained it may have pests. Especially as a student, pests will give you a hard time around the house.
• Make sure all the appliances are working. The last thing you need as a student is to find out that the appliances don’t work right after moving in.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with the landlord. Know exactly what utilities and amenities are covered in the rent and which ones you will have to pay for. Look for water, electricity, gas, internet, cable TV, air conditioning, and parking to name a few. There is a good chance that many of these will be included in the rent.

Finding student accommodation that meets your needs is vital to your academic performance, social life, and overall well-being. So, it’s important to consider the factors that will create the right environment for your success. From your budget to the location and type of student accommodation you select, making the right decisions will enhance your university experience in Canada.

With rising rental costs, finding affordable housing in Canada can be challenging. For newcomers, this can be a frustrating obstacle to overcome, especially in your first few weeks and months in a new country. In this article, we outline practical solutions to help you stay within your affordability range. With patience and persistence, you will discover options that can help you save money for accommodation in Canada without compromising comfort and quality.

Affordable Housing Statistics in Canada

Facing a declining supply of rental housing, especially in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver, costs for rental accommodation are rising at unprecedented rates. According to recent rental statistics from Rentals.ca, average asking rents reached a record high of $2,117 in August 2023. This makes it difficult to find and budget for high rental costs. However,  there are still affordable housing options available across the country.

What is Affordable Housing?

Affordability is based on the proportion of your income that you pay for housing. An affordable home will require a smaller proportion of income, while an unaffordable one is larger, for example, greater than 30% of your before-tax household income.

Affordable housing is a broad term that includes housing that the private, public, and non-profit sectors provide. It also includes all forms of housing such as rental, ownership, and temporary and permanent housing.

Affordability At-a-Glance

According to Aled ab lorwerth, Deputy Chief Economist, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Canada needs to dramatically increase the supply of housing to restore affordability by 2030.

• Canada needs about 3.5 million additional housing units by 2030 to restore affordability
• Housing demand varies across the country due to economic and demographic conditions
• Housing supply gaps are greatest in Ontario and British Columbia (due to economic growth in these provinces)
• Current housing construction shortfalls are contributing to the limited supply of housing.

Renting Options that Can Help with Affordable Housing

Renting is a popular option for individuals and families seeking affordable housing in Canada. In fact, Statistics Canada reveals that about one-third of Canadian households rent their residence. Keeping in mind that rental prices vary depending on the type of housing, location, size, and condition of the property, here are some tips to find affordable rental options:

1. Look for rental properties in up-and-coming neighbourhoods

Consider searching for rental properties in areas that are undergoing revitalization. These areas may offer lower rent prices compared to more established neighbourhoods. 

2. Keep your eye open for rental listings that offer incentives such as:

• Free rent for one month or lower rent for the first few months  
• Free parking
• Utilities (heat, water, electricity, internet, and cable) that are included in the rent 
• Gift cards, student specials, and more!

Incentives, especially like utilities included in your monthly rent can lower your housing costs by a large amount. 

These are examples of rental listings in cities across Canada that cover utilities such as heat, water, and electricity (using the “Utilities” filter.)

EDMONTON

HAMILTON

OTTAWA

3. Consider sharing a rental property to help with affordability

Another option to consider is sharing a rental property with others. This can often lead to lower rent prices compared to traditional rental properties. And, for newcomers, home-sharing can be a great way to ease financial pressures, expand your social network, and add to your quality of life!  

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Addressing Affordability in Major Cities in Canada

Affordability in major cities where the vacancy rates fall below 2 percent, like Toronto, and Vancouver, can be out of reach for many individuals. And, for newcomers trying to achieve financial stability in Canada, securing affordable housing is even more important. However, there are still options if you want to live in these cities without breaking the bank.

One option to consider is micro-apartments or micro-condos. These smaller living spaces are becoming increasingly popular in major cities as a way to provide affordable housing options. While they may have a smaller footprint, they often come with amenities and innovative design features to maximize space.

Another option to explore is purpose-built rental buildings. These buildings are specifically designed for rental purposes and often offer more affordable rent prices compared to privately owned properties. Professional property management companies usually manage purpose-built rental buildings ensuring quality and affordability.

Tips to Find Affordable Housing

Finding affordable housing can be a challenging and time-consuming process. However, with the right strategies and resources, you can increase your chances of securing an affordable home. Here are some tips to help you in your search:

1. Start your search early 

Facing a shortage of affordable housing, it’s important to start your search well in advance. Give yourself plenty of time to explore different neighbourhoods and visit properties. Another challenge you may face is that you’re likely competing with many others in the market for affordable housing. In this case, choice properties may be off the market quickly.  

2. Know how to ‘sell yourself’ to potential landlords

In cities with tight rental markets with low vacancy rates, you will be competing with many others in the market for affordable housing. In this case, you need to ‘sell yourself’ as the best possible candidate for the landlord to select.

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3. Utilize online resources

There are several rental websites and online platforms to help you search for rental properties that meet your affordability price range. And, you can filter your search by price range for greater search ease.

4. Network and seek affordable housing recommendations

Reach out to friends, family, and colleagues who may be able to recommend affordable housing options. People in your network may know of future vacancies that are within your budget and are not yet listed on rental websites.

5. Be flexible

Flexibility is key when searching for affordable housing. Consider compromising on certain amenities or locations to find a more affordable option. Keep an open mind and be willing to explore different possibilities, including basement apartments.

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6. Seek professional assistance

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about the process, consider seeking assistance from professionals such as real estate agents who can guide and support you throughout your search. 

7. Explore smaller cities

Smaller cities that surround major cities may offer more affordable housing and provide easy access to amenities and public transit. For example, you can explore smaller cities within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) such as: 

• Brampton
• Burlington
• Markham
• Mississauga
• Oshawa, and 
• Richmond Hill

With the rise of remote work and flexible schedules, living outside the city center is becoming a viable option for many individuals and families.

While the challenges of finding affordable housing in Canada may seem daunting, solutions and options are available. Remember, finding affordable housing requires persistence and patience. Don’t be discouraged if it takes time to find the perfect fit. By using the available resources, you can increase your chances of finding suitable housing that is within your budget.

In Canada, September is synonymous with back to school. Though it’s technically still summer, this month is all about back-to-school shopping, getting ready, and adjusting to a new school year. Parents become heavily invested in this yearly tradition of preparing for the first day at school. Updating wardrobes, preparing meals and snacks, shifting work schedules, and setting up before- and after-school care are just some of the activities to complete!

Whether it’s the first time your child goes off to school or whether they are simply starting a new year, it can be a few stressful and emotional weeks. And, of course, if your child is starting school in a new country, parents can expect a bumpy transition until your child—and family —has a chance to adjust.

My Back-to-School Experience in Canada

For me, it was difficult in the beginning. Though my parents were involved and excited about me starting school, they didn’t really know much about the Canadian education system or speak the language, much less know North American trends for 10-year-old girls.

The newcomer back-to-school experience, as I like to call it, is a unique one in that both kids and parents go through it and survive it together. What helped my parents adjust was meeting my teachers ahead of time and connecting with other newcomer parents. This allowed them to create a support system and familiarize themselves with school practices and rules. They also had friends with kids and used them as resources as well.

Personally, I was less worried about the structure and rules of school and more concerned with overcoming that feeling of being a fish out of water. Wearing bright homemade sweaters and eating what children deemed as ‘strange’ food did not get me far at first. It took me three months to make friends, adjust from going to school for half-days in Argentina to full days in Canada, and learn English with the help of teachers and staff.

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But slowly, the more I reached out to people who wanted to know me and help me, the more I began to form a community. This played such a big part in my adjusting period. With each friendship I made, I felt a little more confident; with each test I passed, I felt a little more secure.

Tips to Achieving Success

School success was another big part of adjusting to a new environment. Once I saw my grades and language skills improving, things started to turn around and school became exciting again. Over time, I even struck up the nerve to join a few after-school activities that helped me feel more part of the community.

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Looking back now, what I learned from my own experience is that the secret to surviving the newcomer back-to-school experience is time. A new school year always comes with a few roadblocks and surprises, but getting through that first year is always the toughest. Still, encourage your children to endure it because with time, that bumpy transition will smooth out and their anxieties will subside.

If you are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or temporary resident, you will have a Social Insurance Number. Applying for your social insurance number (SIN) is one of the first things to do after you arrive in Canada. When you apply to Service Canada for your SIN, you will receive a nine-digit number. This number is vital because it allows you to work in Canada and access government programs and benefits. Your SIN is issued only for your use. Any legal resident over 12 can get a social insurance number in Canada. Learn more about the steps to complete your SIN application and how and when to use it.

When to Apply for Your Social Insurance Number

You will need your SIN when you get a job, and complete your tax information, and you may even require it to open a bank account. So, apply for your SIN within the first two weeks of arriving in Canada. Settlement agencies can help you to complete your social insurance number application, and provide many other useful services to newcomers!

Applying for Your SIN in Canada

Applying for your SIN in Canada is completely free. There are three ways that you can apply for your SIN:

• In person at a Service Canada Centre

• By mail

• Online.

How to Apply for Your Social Insurance Number in Person

You can visit a Service Canada Centre to apply for SIN in person. You can make an appointment online through the eServiceCanada – Service Request Form. Once you make an appointment, you need to make sure you bring the correct documents with you (see documents needed above).

All the documents you provide when applying in person must be original. The advantage of applying for SIN in person is that you will get your SIN the very same day. For the other two methods of applying, you may have to wait another month before getting a valid SIN.

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Also Read:

Summer Jobs in Canada: Tips for Newcomer High School Students

How to Apply for Your Social Insurance Number by Mail

If you apply by mail, you can only submit original documents. The documents will be returned to you by mail once your application is complete. You will have to print, complete, and sign the SIN Application Form. If you are unable to print the application form, you can order one by calling the toll-free number: 1-866-274-6627

The documents required for applying by mail are quite similar to that of applying in person ((see documents needed above).

How to Apply for Your Social Insurance Number Online

If you apply for SIN online, you will need clear and legible digital copies of all the required documents.

It is a good idea to call Service Canada or check eServiceCanada to get the most up-to-date information. The required documents and/or the process of applying for SIN can change, so double-checking the requirements is always a good idea.

Protecting Your SIN and Avoiding Scams

As a newcomer (including international students), it’s important to understand how and when to provide your SIN. For example, it’s essential to keep your SIN confidential. It is not a document you will need to access very often. Someone getting their hands on your SIN could lead to the loss of government benefits, tax refunds, and identity theft. If someone uses your SIN to commit fraud, it would be you who takes the blame. Similarly, if someone uses your SIN to work illegally in Canada, you must pay tax on income you didn’t receive.

A common scam that newcomers can be a victim of occurs when unknown parties represent themselves as a government of Canada agency. The caller states that your social insurance number has been breached or compromised. The caller will request your personal information including your SIN and request payment (often in cryptocurrency, prepaid credit cards, or gift cards). This is a serious red flag since Service Canada or the Canada Revenue Agency will never contact you by phone or email to request your SIN or credit card number.

Tips to Keep Your SIN Safe

As mentioned earlier, you do not need your SIN for your day-to-day life. Because of this, you don’t need to carry your SIN in your wallet or take it with you wherever you go. It is a better idea to store it in a safe place. Some other steps you can take to protect your SIN card are:

• Only provide your SIN where it is legally required

• Never using your SIN as identification. It is not an identity document and shouldn’t be used as one

• Shred any paper records that include your SIN.

Many places that don’t legally need your SIN may ask for it. While it is not necessary, it is still legal. So, it’s important to know when you need to give your SIN when you don’t. If you are applying for a job, renting property, or are asked to prove your identity, you may be asked for your SIN. However, you are not obliged to provide your SIN for these actions and it is strongly recommended that you don’t. 

Completing your social insurance number application is a vital first step when you arrive in Canada. Ideally, you should complete this activity within your first two weeks of arriving. This nine-digit number is essential to begin working in Canada and to access other government services and benefits!

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For newcomers, learning to drive a car can be an important first step. If you have never had a driver’s license before, we’ll explore learning to drive and how to get your driver’s license in Canada.

A driver’s license will help you do many practical activities such as: 

• Go to job interviews and travel to work

• Shop for groceries

• Run important errands. 

Learning to drive can also allow you to do personal activities like going on exciting road trips, discovering charming small towns, and enjoying scenic drives.

A driving license can also be used as an official piece of Canadian identification. Just one more benefit of having a driving license.

Obtaining your driving license is also helpful if you plan to live in a suburb where communities are more spread out. That distance can make it challenging to get around quickly and efficiently without a car.

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Already Have Your Driver’s License?

You may already have your driving license from your home country. If you currently have a driver’s license you may be able to take advantage of the foreign license exchange agreement or get credits for your foreign driving experience. This will allow you to obtain your Canadian driver’s license more quickly.

Getting Your Driver’s License for the First Time? Where to Start

Getting your driver’s license in Canada may vary depending on the province where you reside. However, all provinces will require you to pass driving tests:

• A driving theory exam (a written exam that tests your knowledge of driving rules and road signs)
• A vision test
• One or two in-car driving tests.

Getting your G1 Driving License

When you successfully pass the driving theory exam and the vision test, you will get your G1 driving license. With a G1 driving license, you are only allowed to drive when there is a fully licensed driver in the car with a minimum of four years of driving experience. As well, there are other restrictions that you have to follow. 

Getting Your G2 Driving License

To graduate from your G1 to a G2 driving license, you will have to pass a road test. The road test will test your basic driving skills. You can take this driving test after you have been a G1 driver for 12 months. 

Getting Your Full G License

To get your full G license, you must pass a test that covers advanced driving skills such as parallel parking and driving on a highway. You can take this driving test: 

• After 12 months of driving with a G2 driving license, and

• Before the G2 driving license expiry date.

But if your G2 driving license expires, you’ll have to do all of the tests over again. So it’s important to complete your G license driving test before your G2 expires. 

When you pass your G driving test, you will successfully get your full G license! With this license, you can drive any car, van, or small truck.

Learning to Drive a Car with a Professional Driving School 

If you do not have a driver’s license from your home country and have never driven before, you may want to learn to drive in Canada. A beneficial way to learn to drive is to take driving lessons before you get your license.

When you take driving lessons you can gain several benefits. For example, you can:

1. Increase your safety: You’ll learn the rules of the road and the best driving techniques. From driving in changing weather conditions to avoiding a collision, you will increase your safety and the safety of others.

2. Develop good driving habits and skills: You’ll get the practice you need to drive with confidence and the skill to pass your driving test in Canada. 

3. Learn with professional driving instructors: With an experienced and professional driving instructor, you’ll learn the proper driving techniques as well as the common mistakes you need to avoid. Activities like speeding or following too closely can amount to expensive tickets, collisions, and serious injury to yourself or others.

4. Get your driving license faster: When you complete your driving lessons and receive your certificate, you can take your driving test eight months after you complete your written test. Without a driving certificate from a qualified driving school, drivers must wait 12 months before they can take the G2 driving test. Learn more about Canada’s graduated licensing system. 

5. Reduce your insurance rates: With a certificate from a driving school, you may be rewarded for your time and effort with lower car insurance rates. However, the driving school that you attend must be approved by the provincial Ministry of Transportation. Click here for approved driving schools in Ontario.

Key Takeaways About Learning to Drive a Car:

1. Learning to drive a car in Canada can allow you to do many practical as well as personal activities.

2. While the process to get your driver’s license may vary slightly across Canada, all provinces use a graduated licensing system. This system allows you to progress from a G1 license to a G2 license, and finally to a full G license.

3. To learn to drive in Canada with confidence and skill, you can consider taking driving lessons from a government-approved driving school. Driving lessons provide you with many benefits, including lower car insurance rates in Canada which will save you money. 

For more information about living, working, and banking in Canada, check out our upcoming free webinars!

You received your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), and you’re excited! But still, you have questions about life in Canada. You might wonder if there are any settlement services for newcomers to provide support to you and your family. The good news is that there are settlement agencies whose primary purpose is to help you adjust and adapt to Canada. And, you can access many of these services before and after you arrive in Canada. Another benefit is that most of these services are free of charge!

If you are in Canada, click here to find free newcomer services near you! 

What are Settlement Services in Canada?

Settlement services help newcomers adjust to life in Canada. And, these services can help to remove financial, social, and cultural barriers that are vital to your success in Canada. Settlement agencies offer a variety of programs and services.

Settlement agencies are community organizations that provide programs and services to help newcomers adjust to life in Canada.  Each settlement agency provides different services. So it’s helpful to find a settlement agency that best meets your needs.

A settlement agency can work with you on a one-to-one basis. Settlement workers understand that adjusting to life in a new country is hard. And having a one-to-one conversation with a settlement worker will help them understand your needs so they can serve you better.

So it’s important to identify your needs and share information about your:

• culture

• education, and

• skillset.

Based on your needs, they can provide you with support services such as child care, translation, transportation, and many other services. Working together, you can work towards achieving your goals in Canada.

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What Services Do Settlement Agencies in Canada Provide?

Settlement agencies provide a wide range of services. Here are six services that can be vital to your success!

1. Information about Life in Canada

Settlement services in Canada provide insights into life in Canada. For example, the Canadian healthcare system differs across provinces. So settlement workers will explain the healthcare system to you. A settlement agency can help you apply for a provincial health card, and a social insurance number, and find a family physician.

Settlement agencies also have information about neighbourhoods in many cities. So they can help you look for housing to suit your needs and budget. This is helpful because rental costs vary according to the:

• location (city and neighborhood)

• Type of housing and size, and

• Vacancy rates, and more.

Most cities in Canada have excellent public transport networks. Settlement services in Canada can explain the public transport networks local to you.

Some people prefer to drive. You can ask your settlement worker for more information on driving in Canada. A clean driving record and access to a car can make it easy to drive to job interviews. However, using public transportation can help you to manage expenses while you search for a job in Canada.

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2. Help with Your Financial Needs

A settlement agency can also guide you with your financial needs in Canada. For example, they’ll identify the documents you’ll need and help you to open a bank account in Canada.

An important responsibility of permanent residents in Canada is to file income taxes every year. By filing your taxes each year, you can access financial benefits such as the:

• Canada Child Benefit

• Goods and Services Tax (GST), and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) credit, and

• Child Care Subsidy.

These important benefits and credits put money back in your pocket when you file taxes. Settlement agencies host free clinics to teach you about the tax system and how to file your taxes. Some settlement agencies have volunteers who will file your taxes for the first year free of charge.

3. Job Search Services in Canada

Settlement agencies have job developers who can help you navigate the job market. They will work with you to understand your short-term and long-term career goals. They can recommend resources to help you achieve your career goals in Canada.

Other job search services can help you to:

• Prepare a Canadian-style resume

• Write a cover letter

• Create a portfolio of your work.

Additionally, they will conduct mock interviews with you and give you feedback to help you excel in real interviews.

Some newcomers are lucky to find their dream jobs quickly. However, the job search process can be long and stressful for others. If you do not find your dream job quickly, you still need a job to pay your bills.

In such cases, a settlement agency can help you find a survival job. Many newcomers work in survival jobs until they find a job in their field. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone in your job search.

In addition, you may have to acquire new skills or upgrade your existing skills. Settlement agencies can point you to bridging programs or other college or university programs that can help you succeed.

Some examples of regulated occupations include:

• Medical doctors

• Nurses

• Lawyers

• Accountants

• Engineers, and other occupations.

You’ll need a license to work in a regulated occupation in Canada. Settlement agencies can direct you to the appropriate licensing body for your profession.

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4. Networking Activities

Leaving behind your family and friends is difficult. Settlement services can help you meet other newcomers and their families to build a local support system.

If you have a family, settlement agencies will introduce you to public libraries and Early Years programs. Libraries and Early Years programs are free to use and attend. These programs can help your children improve their physical and emotional health and socialize with children their age.

Settlement agencies partner with other professional and non-profit groups to provide newcomers with opportunities to network. Networking can help you build personal and professional relationships.

Some settlement agencies have mentoring programs that match you with a mentor in your career field. You can ask mentors questions about:

• your industry in Canada

• Canadian workplace culture

• job search tips, and more.

Mentors are volunteers who donate their time to help newcomers learn about their field in Canada. But, it’s important to know their job is to guide you. They are not responsible for finding you a job.

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5. Language Training Services in Canada

Canada has two official languages:

• English, and

• French.

Quebec is the only French province while New Brunswick is the only bilingual province. Being bilingual in Canada can provide you with more job opportunities.

Improving your language skills in either official language helps you to:

• get information about daily life in Canada, and

• increase your chances of getting a job.

Settlement services also offer classes to help you improve your language skills. They will assess your language skills and recommend a program based on your results.

Some settlement services in Canada even organize conversation circles that allow you to practice your language skills. This will increase your confidence to talk to others and have meaningful conversations.

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6. Your Rights and Responsibilities in Canada

Settlement services in Canada organize free sessions on your rights and responsibilities as permanent residents in Canada. They cover topics like:

• maintaining your permanent residence

• applying for citizenship

• understanding your tenant rights

• knowing your rights as an employee in Canada.

Some settlement agencies conduct workshops on Canadian business and workplace culture to help you succeed and retain your job.

How to Find Settlement Services in Canada?

A great place to start is to watch this short video from Pre Arrival Canada. You’ll learn how to access free online services to help you prepare for and adapt to life in Canada while still in your home country You can even register for multiple services based on your needs!

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Tips to Make the Most of Settlement Services

• Identify the services you need (i.e. preparing to move to Canada, language training, job search, housing search, credential recognition, etc)

• Research the settlement agencies that offer services you need

• Contact the agency before you move to Canada to learn about pre- and post-arrival services that you can take advantage of

• Ask questions about other services that they offer.

Settlement services in Canada can help you adjust and adapt to life in Canada and give you the advantage you seek. Before and after you arrive in Canada, these free services provide many benefits for you and your family!

Check out our upcoming webinars for more information about housing, settling, and working in Canada.

For many newcomers, owning a home in Canada is a source of pride, satisfaction, and accomplishment! And, buying a home is also an investment that grows over time and provides a great financial benefit. But before jumping in, consider these vital first-time home buyer tips!

Buying your first home is an expensive decision. And, it will likely be the biggest purchase that you make in your lifetime. So you want to ensure that you understand exactly what’s involved. Buying a home in Canada may be different than in your home country. From the home buying process to the types of homes and styles, layouts, and materials, there are many differences.

Should You Rent or Buy a Home?

Many newcomers arrive in Canada with savings to buy their first home. In fact, a 2019 survey conducted by Royal LePage revealed that newcomers represent a growing segment of the Canadian real estate market. Some of the findings showed that newcomers:

• represent 1 in 5 homebuyers across Canada

• live in Canada for about three years before they purchase a home

• arrive with savings intended to buy a home.

It makes sense that newcomers are eager to enter the housing market in Canada. Indeed, owning your own home is exciting for many reasons. Homeownership can be a great investment and a way to build personal wealth. Young families may want more space with a backyard for children to play. Or, buying a home in Canada may be an important part of your immigration dream!

But rarely do people have enough money to buy a home outright. This is where lenders can help you by giving you a loan, also known as a mortgage. But, you will need enough savings to pay for a down payment before you can get approved for a mortgage. 

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What’s a Down Payment?

Essentially, a down payment is a portion you put down towards the value of your home right up front. If you don’t have enough for a down payment, you’ll have to build your savings. You subtract the down payment from the purchase price of the home and you supplement the remaining cost with a mortgage.

In addition to saving money for a down payment, there are other costs that you will have to pay, such as closing costs. It’s important to factor in the closing costs because they can be costly and often take first-time homebuyers by surprise.

So before you rush into buying a home, it’s important to understand all the costs involved for a first-time home buyer in Canada. 

When Renting a Home Makes Sense

If you have recently arrived in Canada, you’ll discover many things in the city you have landed in. And, you may discover that you love the city and want to make it your home. On the other hand, you may learn that it’s not quite what you had expected. Or, you may land a job in a different city and want to relocate to another region or city in Canada. When you first arrive in Canada, it’s best to continue renting until you’re certain about where you want to live long-term. 

Renting a home versus buying a home makes sense if you:

• Are not certain where you want to live (what neighbourhood or city?) 

• Have not yet landed a permanent job

• Expect your financial situation will change over the next year or so

• Need time to save for a down payment.

When Buying a Home Makes Sense

A large advantage of buying a house is the sense of pride that comes from owning your home in Canada. In addition, you become a part of a community where you know your neighbours and gain a sense of belonging. And most importantly, you’ll gain financial benefits when you: 

• Pay down your mortgage over a period of time

• Create wealth and build equity in your home.

In general, it makes sense to buy a home if you plan to remain in the city for five years or more. 

Three Financial First Steps Before You Buy a Home

Before you become a first-time homebuyer, you need to prepare to meet new financial obligations. These are three important steps to take before you buy a home:

1. Establish Credit History:

When buying a home as a newcomer, you also have to establish your credit history in Canada. You can begin to build your credit by getting a credit card, or applying for a small loan and making regular payments. 

2. Build an Emergency Fund:

Another important factor to consider before you buy a home is how stable your financial situation is. When you decide to purchase a home, you need financial discipline. For example, it’s important to save money for an emergency fund. When you own a home or a condo, you need to set aside money to deal with unexpected issues such as a leaky roof, basement flooding, or a burst pipe.  Any of these expenses could be thousands of dollars.

3. Save for a Down Payment:

Most importantly, you need to save for your down payment. However, you can own your home in Canada with as little as just a five percent down payment and mortgage insurance.

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What’s the Minimum Down Payment Rule in Canada?

In Canada, the minimum down payment is the percentage of the home’s purchase price. And depending on the house price, the minimum down payment amounts vary.

For example, the minimum down payment is:  

• 5% for the portion of a home’s purchase price below $500,000

• 10% for the portion of the purchase price from $500,000 to $999,999 (plus 5% for the value below $500.000)

• 20% for homes that are valued at greater than $1 million.

Until you have made some firm decisions, it may make more sense to continue renting a home before you buy a home.

Important Questions for First-Time Home Buyers

In addition to thinking about financial first steps, you’ll also need to consider other practical questions such as:

How Much Can You Afford?

As a guideline, financial experts state that you should not pay more than 30% – 32% of your total household income for housing and home-ownership costs such as:

• Mortgage interest

• Property taxes

• Maintenance.

But, that’s a guideline. You may decide to budget more for housing or, cut back on other discretionary expenses such as entertainment or dining out. Read more about mortgage affordability.

Can You Get Pre-approved for a Mortgage?

A mortgage pre-approval means that a lender has stated that you qualify for a mortgage loan based on your current income and credit history. The pre-approval will indicate the:

• Pre-approval term (usually 90 – 120 days)

• Interest rate

• Mortgage amount.

The lender will assess your financial situation and determine how much they are willing to lend to you to buy your house. This will give you confidence when choosing which homes to consider buying. It will also help when you make an offer on a property because the buyer knows you are serious and able to make the purchase.

What Home is Right for You?

When you’re ready to search for a home, you need to consider:

• What do you need and want in your house? (number of bedrooms, bathrooms, storage needs, etc)

• What’s in the neighbourhood? (is it close to schools, work, shopping, parks, place of worship, public transportation, and other services?)

• What type of house do you want to live in? (condominium, detached or semi-detached home, townhouse, duplex, or triplex)

When you answer these questions, you can narrow your house search to find the ideal home for your needs. You can also provide this information to your realtor who can help you find your ideal home in Canada. Realtors are trained and licensed to help you find and buy a resale property. You may decide to choose an agent who has sold other properties in the areas that you are considering. Or, you may choose a realtor that a friend or family member recommends.

Talk to the realtor about the important things to you in a home, but keep a realistic approach. Many Canadians buy a starter home” and then work their way up the property ladder. Be ready to accept that your price range may not cover all the features you want in a house.

You do not pay for the services of a realtor. Realtors earn their money by keeping a commission on the selling price of the house that they help to sell. The commission is paid by the seller, not by you the buyer.

Making an Offer

Once you’ve found a property you want, you’ll want to make an offer. An offer represents your desire to purchase the property and the amount you’re willing to pay.

Your real estate agent can advise on the price you should offer on a resale home based on your local market conditions and recent home sales in the neighborhood.

After agreeing on a price, the seller will stop showing the property to other prospective buyers because the home is now ‘conditionally sold’ to you, and will begin to take the necessary steps to complete the transaction.

Similarly, you will also need to begin taking steps to fulfill your part of the purchase process, including any conditions you may have listed in your offer such as a home inspection or finalizing financing. These vary by location, and your realtor is a good person to ask about the next steps.

Typically, the offer-to-purchase agreement will include:

Property Details:

This is a detailed description of the residence’s address, including street name, house, lot, and block number. It will also often include a list of additional items included in the sale (appliances, garage door openers window coverings, etc).

Transaction Details:

Here a clearly-stated purchase price that both parties have deemed acceptable will appear. There will also be a description of the deposit amount here. A deposit demonstrates that you are serious about your offer, and will persuade the seller to not entertain any further offers. The Offer will also often contain the payment method (cheque, credit card, etc.), as well as mention who will hold the deposit.

Closing Date:

This is the date when the property becomes yours and you are free to move in. By this time, any previous owner is expected to have removed all of their belongings and cleared any of the conditions you may have imposed.

A Statement of Transfer of Insurances and Warranties and Representations:

Typically, the seller is responsible for the property until the closing date and guarantees that they have the legal right to sell the property. They also guarantee that all buildings and improvements do not encroach upon neighbouring lands.

Additional Terms:

Here you’d place any additional modifications or improvements to the property that have been agreed upon by both seller and buyer.

Conditions:

This is where you’ll typically find a list of agreed-upon conditions of sale, the breach of which could result in a nullification of the purchase agreement. This could include a description of financing conditions, property inspection conditions, condominium documents conditions, and the sale of buyer’s home conditions.

Closing Costs When Buying a Home

In addition to your mortgage, there are several closing costs that you must pay before you can take possession of your house. To “take possession” means the home is now legally yours. First-time home buyers are very often surprised when they learn of these additional costs. Examples of closing costs that you can expect to pay include:

Appraisal Fee:

This is the cost for an appraiser to assess the property value. Your mortgage lender may require an appraisal to determine whether the selling price is reasonable for the market.

GST:

You must pay the Goods and Service Tax (or Harmonized Sales Tax) on a newly constructed or substantially renovated home. Resale homes do not require a GST payment.

Land Transfer Tax:

This is a tax charged to buyers in most provinces, usually based on the purchase price.

Legal Costs:

This includes fees charged by your lawyer for services such as conducting a title search, drafting a title deed, and preparing the mortgage, and registration fees. A guideline for costs is typically between 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price of the home.

Mortgage Default Insurance:

High-ratio mortgages (those with less than 20% down payment) require mortgage default insurance. The cost is usually added to the mortgage it varies depending on the amount of your down payment.

Mortgage Life Insurance:

Special insurance coverage to cover the cost of your mortgage in the event of death or severe illness is available from most lenders.

Home Inspection Fee:

Hiring a home inspector is voluntary but recommended for resale homes, and usually, the cost ranges from $400-$600. With a home inspection, you may discover issues with the house that will cause you to back out of your offer altogether. Or, the home issues may be manageable and you could ask for a lower purchase price to offset any repair expenses.

As well, you may want to bring in trades such as an electrician, a plumber, and perhaps a structural specialist to ensure you understand all the home systems. They can also provide cost estimates for repairs if needed.

Why You Need a Home Inspection When Buying a Home

When you buy a home, it’s important to conduct a home inspection. This is usually done before you make an offer, and the offer is usually conditional upon inspection. When inspecting a house, a home inspector will look for:

Foundation: home inspectors will look to see if there is a leak in a foundation wall and whether insulation is in place. If there’s an active leak, they will determine the condition behind the wall.

Plumbing: an inspector will determine if the drains are installed properly and not leaking.

Windows: the inspector will make sure that the window seals are not damaged. For example, if one of the windows gets fogged, that tells that the window has to be replaced. Next, the home inspector will look at the frame to see if there are any openings that have to be resealed; otherwise, you may get an air leakage.

Furnace: the home inspector will check the quality of the filter and whether it is installed properly. They will check the quality and age of the furnace itself and whether it’s leaking any water inside or gas, which could be very critical.

Mold:  an inspector will also look for mold (or termites) in the house because it can result in significant costs to repair later.

First-Time Home Buyer Tips for Newcomers

Be Informed: Take advantage of free tools and resources to learn about buying a home as a newcomer and learn about mortgage deals for newcomers.

Know How Much You Can Afford: You can use online mortgage calculators that will give you approximate costs, and monthly mortgage payments.

Get a Pre-Approved Mortgage: You can talk to your lender about getting a pre-approved mortgage certificate.

Use a Realtor: There are many different real estate companies in Canada and many agents to choose from.

Get a Real Estate Lawyer: A real estate lawyer will review your purchase agreement contract. The wording in these contracts is very important and your lawyer will make sure everything is done properly in terms of the law.

Prepare a Budget: Plan for your home closing costs or the costs associated with the date on which you actually take possession of your home.

When buying a home in Canada, it’s vital to consider these first-time home buyer tips. Learn the essentials and become informed about everything that’s involved. Homeownership provides great pride, security, and achievement. And when you’re informed about your home buying decisions, you’ll feel confident about your purchasing decisions!

For more information, tools, and free webinars about living in Canada visit our Settling in Canada resource page. We’ll help you to settle in Canada successfully!

For most newcomers and international students arriving in Canada and seeking accommodation, a short-term rental usually comes first, followed by a longer-term rental.

But there is another housing solution for newcomers: home-sharing, or rooms for newcomers.

Home-sharing, of course, is not new to Canada. Other home-sharing programs exist, primarily focused on keeping seniors living and aging in place and helping students find affordable accommodation.

Home-share solutions for newcomers

But now Sparrow, a Canadian home-sharing platform is looking to help immigrants explore, and find, home-share solutions with rooms for newcomers.

It’s also looking to enlist settled newcomer homeowners as hosts. 

To achieve this, Sparrow has teamed with Prepare for Canada to make hosts, and rooms, available to newcomers.

Sparrow teams with Prepare for Canada

This Sparrow-Prepare for Canada initiative aims to provide immigrants and international students with accommodation sharing, another housing alternative to apartments, condos, or house renting.

“We need to do a better job of making it easier and safer for newcomers to find good housing options in Canada,” said Oren Singer, co-founder and CEO of Sparrow. “There’s a ton of underutilized housing space in the form of spare rooms and basements.

“With the cost of living so high these days, we’re seeing many homeowners turning to home-sharing as a way to supplement income.”

The rooms-for-newcomers project is definitely timely. 

Rental demand across the country is soaring (and vacancy rates are falling) as tens of thousands of newcomers and international students arrive each month. 

Five million spare bedrooms in Ontario

To reach the optimal vacancy rate of three percent (it’s now hovering around 2 percent), the report said Canada would need to add 332,000 rental units over the next three years, which would mark an annual increase of 20 percent compared with the 70,000 units built last year.

Sparrow estimates that there are over 12 million empty bedrooms across Canada. 

In Ontario alone, it’s estimated that more than half of residents — and three-quarters of those over the age of 65 — live in houses that are bigger than they need, leaving five-million spare bedrooms across the province, according to a pre-pandemic report by the Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis.

Newcomer homeowner hosts are also needed

“We have an opportunity and responsibility to reimagine how we use and share our housing space,” says the Sparrow website.  The company also notes that one in five Canadian renters spends more than half their income on shelter costs.

Obviously, to meet the demand for accommodation sharing, Sparrow and Prepare for Canada are looking for hosts in addition to housemates. 

Toronto host is paying it forward

The lack of affordable housing for renters, plus population growth and inflation, inspired homeowner Karen H. to become a Sparrow host. “I decided that I could pay it forward by helping somebody get in a space to live at a reasonable price.”

Karine S., who rents a room from Karen in Toronto, said that initially, she didn’t know about the Sparrow concept of housemates and renting a room. She said she was hesitant at first because of previous issues with roommates. 

A Sparrow Story – Karen & Karine from Sparrow on Vimeo.

“I was a little bit wary going into this,” she said, “but the thing that really clarified it for me was actually finding a compatible match (Karen).”

Rental costs in Canada are soaring

In addition to demand and competition for rentals, the price of rents across Canada keeps increasing, particularly in popular Gateway cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.

In March of 2023, a one-bedroom apartment in Toronto costs $2,506 a month. A one-bedroom in Saskatoon (one of Canada’s most affordable cities for rent) costs $1,123 monthly.

So, how do “rooms for newcomers” work?

Sparrow’s home-sharing platform and community match hosts with spare bedrooms with newcomers and international students seeking budget-friendly places to live. The company also sees its business as building social connections and increasing the quality of life for Canadians.

In fact, a recent study shows that “altruistic motivations were expressed by home providers with respect to the difficulty young people face in finding housing in large urban areas.” Intergenerational learning was also cited as a motivation for hosts. 

Housemates can rent for as little as two months

Under the Sparrow/Prepare for Canada initiative, newcomers can rent a room for as little as two months or a full year. 

“You decide how long you’d like to home share for, and we’ll find you the right fit,” says Sparrow.

Here’s how the program works for newcomers in four easy steps:

1. 1. Create your free account and member profile, and say what kind of place you’re looking for.

2. Connect with a pool of like-minded hosts who have bedrooms for rent and choose the right fit for you.

3. Review and sign your home-share agreement.

4. Move into your new home. Sparrow’s concierge team is available every step of the way.

According to Sparrow, the average rent is approximately $750 monthly, depending on the home and location (according to Rentals.ca, the asking rents for all property listings in March reached an average of $2,004).

Focus on safety and security

Sparrow does credit and background checks and attempts to match people based on compatibility.

Hosts can list their space and create a profile for FREE. A service fee for hosts is only charged once the host has received the first rental payment from the housemate.

The host service fee (a one-time only fee) ranges from 1/4 – 1 month’s rent, depending on the length of the  home share contract:

2 – 3 month term length = 1/4 month’s rent fee
4 – 5 month term length = 1/2 month’s rent fee
6 – 9 month term length = 3/4 month’s rent fee
10 – 12 month term length = 1 month’s rent fee

There are no Sparrow service fees for housemates.

The company focuses on ensuring safety and security. Its matching process involves rigorous identity verification, background checks, home share agreements, and screening interviews. Sparrow also matches based on compatibility to enable better connections based on habits, lifestyles, and living preferences.

Anyone who decides to become a host should check with their insurance company to see if any additional coverage is needed.  

Sharing accommodation is an affordable option for newcomers

“Rooms and/or basements on the Sparrow platform are more budget-friendly compared to an average studio or 1-bedroom rental rates,” says Singer.

“We’ve been helping newcomers make connections that simplify the immigration journey for over 12 years,” says Dave Frattini, managing partner of Prepare for Canada and Rentals for Newcomers.

“Sparrow is a purpose-driven home-sharing platform and community that makes it easy, safe, and enjoyable to rent a room,” said Frattini.  

“Together, we’re on a mission to help newcomers enter the rental market faster and easier than ever by connecting newcomers with newcomer and newcomer ally homeowners who can help newcomers find safe and affordable housing.  We’re pleased to launch this initiative, and we look forward to reaching out to any homeowners across the country who want to contribute to building this innovative housing solution for newcomers.”

Matching newcomers to a place they can call home

For newcomers to Canada and international students, renting a room represents an affordable and viable path to sharing accommodation in Canada, and a chance to make a lifelong friend. 

“We’re proud to collaborate with Prepare for Canada to help connect and match newcomers to places they can call home,” says Singer.

Newcomer homeowners and renters can sign up here.

Working with a real estate agent is a reliable alternative way for newcomers to Canada to find their first long-term rental accommodation.

Why should newcomers consider working with a real estate agent (also known as a realtor) to find a rental?

Demand, competition, expertise, and access to landlords are four obvious reasons (also, doing it by yourself in a new country can create a lot of stress, delay, and wasted effort). 

Immigration helps drive rental demand

In Canada’s red-hot rental market, the demand for all types of rental accommodation has never been higher. 

The country’s ambitious immigration targets are absolutely fuelling rental demand as prices rise each month. And that demand will only get stronger across the country, but particularly in Toronto, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and Ontario. 

Canada intends to welcome 465,000 new immigrants this year after admitting a record-breaking 431,000 newcomers in 2022 (mostly from India, the Philippines and China).

In 2024 that number will rise to 485,000 newcomers, and then to 500,000 in 2025. 

Competition for rentals is fierce

Canada has also welcomed a record number of international students. These numbers are forecast to continue to rise, again increasing the demand for rental housing.

With so many newcomers arriving in Canada, the competition for available rental accommodation continues to escalate. Typically, rental listings in Canada (particularly those with choice locations) receive multiple offers from newcomers and those already living in Canada. And many of those applicants have done their research and are prepared to act quickly. 

Real estate agents have expertise

Real estate agents have the expertise that newcomers can use to get exactly the kind of rental accommodation they want, where they want it, and when they want it. 

According to the Real Estate Council of Ontario, in which membership is mandatory for all real estate professionals in Ontario, there are more than 86,000 real estate agents in the province.

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Key reasons to use a real estate agent in Canada

Using a real estate agent to help you find your ideal rental property typically costs nothing.  Your future landlord (the actual owner of the property) covers the realtor commissions. 

In Ontario and the GTA, more renters are using real estate agents because realtors:

• Know the market
• Have access to tools such as the multiple listing service (MLS) to find listings quickly and easily
• Are members of a regulated profession in Ontario and must register with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO), which regulates the trade of real estate on behalf of the Ontario government.
• Check for new rental listings constantly so you can be among the first to see any new rentals available.
• Understand the types of housing that will work for you
• Understand and can recommend the neighbourhoods that would best suit your needs (schools, transportation, etc.).
• Have longstanding relationships with landlords
• Can more easily get you multiple viewings of the rentals in your price range and speed up your search and the rental process.
• Can reduce the number of viewings allowing you to concentrate on work or school, and adjust to life in Canada.
• Understand and can negotiate lease terms with the landlord
• Will explain the terms and conditions of your rental agreement and make sure you understand your tenant obligations and responsibilities (for example, renter’s insurance).
• Organize your deposit, monthly rental cheques, tenant insurance, utilities, and key exchange before you take possession.
• Ensure your rental is in good condition and record any existing damage in advance
• Will keep in touch with you to make sure everything is running smoothly. Smart agents know that you may eventually buy a home, and they’d obviously like to have you as a client.

Finally, the realtor’s access to landlords and listings cannot be overstated. Because of this access, realtors know about rental properties that aren’t listed on rental sites, or that are about to be listed. So, you get a head start on the competition. This is particularly true regarding Toronto/GTA condo owners who often work only through real estate agents.

These are just some of the advantages that come with working with a real estate agent. 

Other factors to consider

While real estate agents in Ontario are licensed, there are still some other things newcomers should consider when deciding to work with one to find a rental:

• You will be working with a second party (the realtor). If you are the type of person who likes to have total control over every step in the rental process, this arrangement might not be for you.
• Realtors have multiple clients, and their main focus is obviously on selling houses, so at times, they may be busy with other clients. Be sure to discuss this with the agent.
• Ensure that the realtor knows the market where you’re hoping to live. Good two-way communication helps.
• Ensure you discuss ALL fees and how they are paid (again, in Ontario, typically by the property owner) upfront with your realtor to avoid surprises. While the owner of the rental property typically covers the agent’s fees, some agents MIGHT ask you for a fee upfront to begin the process.
• Show up on time for viewings and avoid cancelling at the last minute. Cancelling last minute is unacceptable and will show disrespect to the realtor and the landlord. So, be sure to communicate effectively.
• Be sure to have proof of employment, proof of funds, proper documents, proof of banking, etc. before you engage with a real estate agent.

Finding a real estate agent in Canada

So how do you find the real estate agent that’s right for you?

Prepare for Canada and Rentals for Newcomers has teamed up with Souqh, a real estate fintech solutions company, to make it easy for newcomers and international students to work with a licensed real estate agent to find suitable rental accommodation.

Souqh is a Canadian real estate and home services marketplace whose goal is to simplify every step of the home buying, ownership, and rental journey. 

Connecting newcomers with realtors

Ahmer Rafiq, Souqh’s CEO, says his company partnered with Prepare for Canada and Rentals for Newcomers “to connect immigrants with realtors and assist with finding rentals across Ontario.”

“We have onboard 3,000+ real estate/home services professionals onto our marketplace across Ontario and … we have partnered with ten real estate boards and associations across Ontario.”

Dave Frattini, the managing partner of Prepare for Canada and Rentals for Newcomers, is excited about working with Souqh to help newcomers access real estate agents.

“Prepare for Canada has been helping newcomers make connections that simplify the immigration journey for over 12 years, said Frattini, “and Souqh is Canada’s real estate and home services marketplace. Together we’re on a mission to help newcomers enter the rental market faster and easier than ever before by connecting newcomers with real estate agents who can assist in finding the rental property that’s right for our newcomer audience needs.”

How to register

So, if working with realtors to find accommodation in Ontario appeals to you, simply click here to register with Souqh. Once you register, a real estate agent in the city where you wish to rent will respond to you.  

And remember: If you’re not in Canada or Ontario yet, but are arriving soon, please register for our Renting in Canada webinar to learn all about working with a real estate agent, finding your own rental, renting a room in a home,  and all the other options for finding rental accommodation in Ontario and Canada. 

*No AI-generated content was used in creating this article, and all sources are cited and linked where possible.

Toronto’s public transportation system is operated by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). There are many ways to get around Toronto using its public transportation system. The TTC operates subways, buses, and streetcars in Toronto and some of its surrounding municipalities. These three modes of transportation, together, are enough to serve all your transportation needs in Toronto. In fact, some even prefer to use the public transportation system in Toronto over owning a car, both by price and convenience. Toronto also offers a bike service known as Bike Share Toronto.

Public Transportation Advantages In Toronto

Toronto is Canada’s most populated city. It is not often easy to get around the city by car, due to Toronto’s traffic conditions. If you are planning to visit or move to Toronto, it is important to have a fast and cost-effective way of getting around the city. Fortunately, Toronto is aware of its traffic problems and has an extensive public transportation system to make up for them. The public transportation system is one of the fastest and most convenient ways of getting around Toronto and its surrounding municipalities.

The advantages of using public transportation in Toronto are many. The biggest public transportation advantage is that the TTC will save you a lot of money compared to owning a car in the long run. Depending on where you live in Toronto, sometimes the TTC is enough to cover all your transportation needs in the city. Another advantage of public transportation in Toronto is time. The TTC can save you a lot of time that would have otherwise been spent stuck in a traffic jam. This is especially true if you are trying to get through downtown Toronto. Even though the city of Toronto is trying to improve its traffic conditions, the bad traffic isn’t going away anytime soon.

Using Subways for Public Transportation

One of the fastest ways of getting around Toronto is by using the TTC subway. However, it is not the most extensive, and you cannot go everywhere in Toronto by using its subway system. Subways run every few minutes from 6 AM to 1:30 AM on weekdays and Saturdays. On Sundays, subways run from 8 AM to 1:30 AM.

The TTC subway system is made up of lines and stations. When you enter a station, you will need to follow signs to your boarding location and pay the fare. One of the best things about Toronto’s subway stations is that the signs are easy to follow and you will not have to waste any time trying to find your way around. Remember, you can always ask someone if you are confused about where to go. You will also know when to get off thanks to the frequent announcements in both French and English before every station.

Toronto’s subway system is made up of 77 km of track with 75 stations spread out over 4 lines. As of 2021, there are currently two new lines and 39 new stations under construction. Once construction has finished in 2022, 19 more kilometres will be added for a total track distance of 96 km. Fortunately, the government will be expanding Toronto’s subway system even further so you can expect to see more lines and stations added in the future.

Using Buses for Public Transportation

Even though buses don’t travel as fast as subways, Toronto’s bus system is very extensive and you can get almost anywhere in Toronto by bus. The TTC bus system has 141 bus routes that cover every corner of the city. If you are travelling from one end of the city to another, you might have to switch buses but the process is very quick as wait times are usually small.

Buses run every few minutes from 6 AM to 1 AM on weekdays and Saturdays. On Sundays, buses run from 8 AM to 1 AM. It is likely you have multiple bus stops near your residence in Toronto. If you are not sure where the nearest bus stops are, you can always check Google Maps. Just open Google Maps and search, ”bus stops”, to find all the bus stops near you.

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TTC Streetcars

Streetcars provide most of the transportation needs in downtown Toronto. That is why most of the streetcar routes are located in downtown Toronto. If you are looking to get around downtown Toronto, you will have to choose between buses and streetcars. Here is why streetcars are better than buses when you have the option of using a streetcar.

Streetcars are generally faster than buses, both because of speed and because streetcars have fewer stops than buses. Streetcars are more spacious and comfortable than buses. They provide a smoother ride because the rails are embedded in the street. If you are looking to commute around downtown Toronto, then streetcars should probably be your first choice. 

One of the great things about TTC streetcars is that most of them run 24 hours a day. There are 13 streetcar routes in Toronto with stops every few hundred metres. These routes cover almost every corner of downtown Toronto, even extending to areas outside downtown.

Two-Hour Transfer Period

If you plan to use the TTC regularly, it’s helpful to know about the two-hour transfer period. Your Presto Card, which we will discuss more later on, will automatically apply the two-hour transfer period. If you transfer to another mode of transportation within those two hours, you can do so for no extra charge. If you are paying for your ride with coins, you will have to ask for a transfer ticket which will also last you 2 hours. During these two hours, you will be able to enter and exit the TTC as many times as you want with your transfer ticket.

The two-hour transfer period is useful if you travel a long distance using the TTC. Chances are, you will have to transfer multiple buses, perhaps even a subway. Or, it’s great to take advantage of the transfer period if you have to make multiple short trips for everyday activities. If you are unaware of the two-hour transfer period, the whole transit journey can become pretty expensive. By making use of the transfer period, you can reduce your transit costs.

Fares for Toronto’s Public Transportation System

The fare system in Toronto’s public transportation system is fairly easy to understand. You will have the option of paying by cash or by a fare card called a Presto card. Youth (13-19) and seniors (65+) will get discounted fare prices. Also, children under the age of 12 can ride for free.

To access the full pricing chart, click here. Below is a brief overview of the fare system for Toronto’s transportation system.

Save Money with a Presto Card

Not only do Presto cards save you a little bit of money each time you use the TTC but they are also very convenient. Presto cards are good to have if you expect to travel a lot in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Presto cards can also be used outside Toronto in cities like Mississauga (MiWay), Brampton, Hamilton, and York, among others. In total, your Presto card can be used in 10 other municipalities outside Toronto. Visit Presto’s official website to learn more about the Presto card, how to use one, and where you can use it.

The City of Toronto has resources for those struggling financially to access Toronto’s public transportation system. The Fair Pass Transit Discount Program is a program that is available to low-income families or individuals. If eligible, you will be able to access a 33% discount on single-ride fares and a 21% discount on your monthly pass. You can learn whether or not you are eligible as well as apply to the program using the link above.

Compared to owning a car in Toronto, a Presto card is more affordable. According to the Canadian Automobile Association, it costs between $8,900 – $12,000 per year to own a car in Toronto.

Public Transportation System: Bike Share Toronto

Another great way to get around Toronto is by bike. Even though downtown Toronto may not be the best place for bikers, the rest of Toronto and most of its surrounding municipalities are bike-friendly. Fortunately, you don’t need to own a bike to get around the city.

Toronto has a bike rental program called Bike Share Toronto. Bike Share Toronto has over 625 stations and 6,850 bikes all across Toronto. Most subway stations also have a Bike Share station nearby. All you need to do is go to a station and rent a bike for as much time as you need it. 

Here is a map of all the bike stations in Toronto. If you click on a station, it will tell you how many bikes are available to rent and how many slots are available to return a bike. Once you are finished using your bike, all you need to do is find the nearest station, return the bike, and pay your fare.

The PBSC App For Bike Share Toronto

To make the whole process easier for you, Bike Share Toronto has a mobile app called PBSC, available on both iOS and Android. The app will have a map of all the stations as well as how many bikes are available in each station. You can even unlock a bike from the app before you reach the station which makes for a quick and convenient experience.

Toronto’s public transportation system is a great way to get around the city. If you have been to Toronto, you are probably well aware of its traffic problems. The transit system can help you save time and avoid getting stuck in traffic jams around the city. Knowing how the public transportation system works in Toronto will let you make the best use of the convenient and cost-effective services available to you.

For more information, tools, and free webinars about living in Canada visit our Settling in Canada resource page. We’ll help you to settle in Canada successfully!