While vacancy rates have improved in parts of Canada, renting your first apartment can be a challenge. Newcomers must submit a winning rental application to compete and secure quality rentals. Well-priced apartments attract a large number of applicants, especially in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Ottawa. These cities have low vacancy rates (often below 2%), and high demand means landlords can be selective. Properties near schools, transit, and shopping centers get snapped up quickly, and in some cases, there are waiting lists for apartments in popular buildings. For newcomers, it’s vital to stand out in the rental application process.

This guide will help you:

• Understand what landlords are looking for
• Know what documents you’ll need
• Learn how to make your rental application stand out
• Get real tips from Canadian landlords
• Compete with confidence, even without a credit history.

What Do Canadian Landlords Look for in Tenants?

Landlords want tenants who:

• Pay rent on time
• Respect the property
• Get along with neighbours
• Stay long-term.

How Can Newcomers Make a Strong Rental Application in Canada?

You can strengthen your rental application by preparing a complete, professional rental profile.

Most landlords will require you to complete a rental application. Complete and submit it promptly to gain a competitive advantage.

1. What documents do you need for a rental application in Canada?

Applications often don’t ask for a bio, but openly sharing information about yourself can impress a landlord (particularly if you will be living in the same building). Here’s what else to include:

DOCUMENT	WHY IT HELPS
Rental application	Landlords require a completed application form with your info and history.
Short bio or cover letter	Introduce yourself. Mention your background, employment, and why you’d be a great tenant.
References	Preferably a past landlord. If unavailable, use employers, colleagues, or professors.
Record of employment or job search info	Show where you work or what jobs you’re applying for. Students should include school enrollment and program.
Proof of funds	Provide a bank statement or a letter from your bank showing you can cover rent (ideally, three to six months).
Guarantor letter	A friend or family member in Canada can agree to cover rent if needed.

💡 Pro Tip: Be cautious of landlords who ask for cash; it could be a rental scam.

2. How can you make a great first impression on a landlord?

Landlords often choose tenants they trust and feel comfortable with. Beyond your rental application, you need to stand out as a person. Here’s how to do it:

• Show up on time for the showing
• Dress professionally
• Be polite and friendly
• Ask thoughtful questions, like:
  • Who do I contact in case of maintenance?
  • Are utilities included?
  • Can I repaint the unit?
• Thank the landlord for their time and mention what you liked about the property.

3. How can you improve your chances of renting?

In a tight rental market where the vacancy rate is less than 2%, consider offering something extra (within your means):

• Guarantee you will buy renters’ insurance; many landlords require it anyway
• Offer to have the unit professionally cleaned when moving out
• Offer to pay a higher monthly rent if the competition is stiff
• Pay multiple months in advance, especially if you don’t have a Canadian job or credit.

Only offer what you can realistically afford. Landlords appreciate honesty over overpromising.

4. How to know what you need in a rental property?

Before booking viewings and completing rental applications, ask yourself:

• What’s your budget after taxes?
• Do you need to be near public transit, schools, or work?
• Are pets allowed?
• Do you need in-unit laundry or parking?

Be flexible. As Jesse Greenwell of Mainstreet Equity, Canada’s largest property management company, notes:

“It’s often cheaper to live near amenities than inside buildings that include them. Public transit can save you a lot on car-related expenses.”

What to Do if Your Rental Application is Denied?

Don’t be discouraged. The rental market in Canada can be tough, even for locals. If you don’t get a unit, politely ask the landlord for feedback so you can improve your next rental application.

“Tenants are going above and beyond in places like Toronto,” says Ontario Landlords Watch founder Kayla Andrade. “They show their full credit reports, offer money upfront, anything to secure a rental.”

Related Posts:

Can You Rent in Canada Without a Credit History?

How Can Newcomers Avoid Rental Scams? 10 Smart Tips

Tenant Insurance in Canada: Why Do Newcomers Need it?

Final Rental Application Tips for Newcomers to Canada

Securing a rental in Canada as a newcomer can be challenging, but with these rental application tips, you can stand out. A strong application goes beyond filling out a form. Landlords appreciate applicants who are:

• Prepared: Have your documents and finances ready for the rental application process
• Professional: Present yourself as a responsible tenant
• Polite: Respect and communication go a long way.

Nelda Schulte, an experienced landlord, stresses that tenancy is a relationship that you can build at the first showing by being polite and respectful. “I have some tenants who have been with me for five-plus years. They are always polite, respectful, and grateful for things I do to keep the property in good shape and keep them happy. In turn, I’m grateful to have them as tenants.”

By presenting yourself as a responsible and reliable tenant, you’ll increase your chances of getting the home you want.