Step 1:
First Contact

The first step in the rental process is to contact me with the specifics of what you are looking for

• max budget
• move-in date
• locations of interest
• # of rooms
• parking

Step 2:
Property Search

A search of the MLS system is conducted and a list is sent to you via email. This list is fine tuned to include all suites within you requirements and includes a map, pictures and suite details. You will also be automatically notified daily when new suites come onto the market

Step 3:
Property Viewings

From the list of rental suites, choose which ones you would like to go see in person. Depending on your schedule, appointments could be booked for daytime, evening or weekend showings

Step 4:
Application and Negotiations

Once we have found a suite you love, the rental application will be written up, explained in full and presented to the Landlord's agent. If approved, the closing preparations begin. If countered, the revised offer is given back to you for final approval

Step 5:
Closing Preparations

Once an Agreement to Lease has been approved by the Landlord and Tenant, closing preparations commence. These include:

• deposit
• insurance
• elevator reservation
• utilities
• post dated cheques

Step 6:
Keys

On or before closing, keys will be available for pick-up at the rental suite

Employment

Each Tenant signing a lease must provide evidence of employment. A recent employment letter signed by a supervisor is required.

If self-employed, provide a letter stating the nature of your business, income and how long you have been working in your field. Additional proof of income (income tax records) may be requested

Identification

A copy of valid photo ID is required to prove identity

• driver's license
• passport

References

Although not required, a positive reference letter from a past landlord could help your chances of being approved

Amenities

All condo facilities are accessible to Tenants when the lease term has begun. Smaller and older condos typically do not have pools or modern gym equipment. Larger and newer condos tend to have more to offer

Decorating

Typically painting and minor decorations are permitted, however it would be prudent to inform your Landlord when doing so. Dark colours may be rejected as it will make repainting much more difficult

Deposit

Within 24 hours after an accepted lease has been approved, the Tenant is required to provide a certified cheque in the amount of first and last month's rent

Giving Notice

The Ontario government has mandated that all Tenants are required to give their Landlord at least 60 days written notice when planning to move

Keys

On closing day (the first day of the new lease), all parties arrange to meet up at the suite to exchange cheques and insurance for the keys

Length of Term

Most leases are signed for a 1 year term. Shorter term rentals are not common and typically cost more per month

Month-to-Month

At the end of the lease term, you may continue on a month-to-month basis. The advantage of continuing month-to-month is that you have flexibility. At anytime you can give at least 60 days notice and move without penalty

Renewing the Lease

At the end of the lease term, you may renew the lease. The advantage to renewing is that your rent is locked in for another term, and you are protected from being asked to leave if the Landlord sells

Payments

Since the first and last month's rent is paid up in advance as the deposit, there are 10 remaining months left in the lease term. These are paid by post-dated cheques when picking up the keys

Solarium vs Den

Solariums and dens are both extra rooms inside condo suites. Solariums are typically found in older buildings, have windows, and may have a sliding glass door. Dens tend to be found in newer construction, lack a door, and are often found closer to the main entrance

Sublet

If you need to move while still under contract, you may be allowed to sublet your suite to someone else, pending Landlord approval

Utilities

Each condo building includes different utilities with the rent. Typically water is included while heating/ac and electricity may not. Every building varies, some include more then others