What kind of questions to ask landlords

As a renter, you’ll likely be asked for a variety of information as you apply for listings and navigate the rental process. While you don’t necessarily need to know your landlord’s employment history or whether they have pets, there are still plenty of pertinent details about their listing and rental practices you should inquire about before signing a lease.

These will largely be questions related to your potential tenancy – anything you’d like to clarify such as details related to their policies or expected responsibilities, as well as questions about their own rental history and the unit you might be renting. If a landlord is hesitant to answer these questions or seems evasive, this could be a bad sign. Though it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re walking into a rental scam, it’s not a good sign of things to come if they’re not willing to answer basic questions about their listing

There are a few ‘checkpoints’ as you progress through the application and rental process with key questions renters should ask the landlord or property manager. Here are a few of the most important ones:

1. Right from when you begin your rental search, be on the lookout for rental scams. Ask yourself questions about each listing’s legitimacy and be critical in your search.
2. After submitting your application, open up a dialogue with the landlord. Ask them questions about the property and their own history as a landlord – being proactive is never a bad idea.
3. During or after a showing is your best chance to ask questions about the unit, including the condition, lease terms, and key dates for moving in.
4. Before you put pen to paper on a lease agreement, be sure you understand everything, and double-check if there’s anything that’s unclear or that wasn’t previously mentioned.

We’ll share a few examples of questions for each of these checkpoints here in this post, but remember to download our complete guide with 56 questions renters should ask for the complete list.

#1 – Questions to ask yourself when browsing listings

Your primary objective at this early stage is to head off rental scams long before they become an issue. There are some tell-tale signs to look out for when browsing listings, and some questions renters should ask themselves about the validity of the listing. Here are some examples:

• Is the listing verified?
• Does the listing look too good to be true?
• Do the listing photos look suspicious?
• Is the unit priced too low? Too high? (you can check our monthly Rent Reports for your area’s rental averages)

Pro-tip: On liv.rent, you can browse listings with confidence thanks to our extensive verification processes for both landlords and listings. You can read more about how we verify profiles and properties here.

#2 – Questions to ask the landlord after applying

Now that you’ve officially applied, the landlord will likely have some follow-up questions for you regarding details in your application or anything you didn’t include. This is also your chance to learn a bit more about the property, and about how you’ll proceed through the rental process, as well as questions renters should ask about the landlord themself and what they’d like to see in a renter. Here are some questions you can ask at this point:

• What are the next steps?
• Do you require renters insurance?
• How much interest have you had in this unit?
• Can you describe your ideal tenant?

#3 – Questions to ask during/after a showing

The next major milestone in your rental journey is attending a showing, whether in-person or virtually. Regardless, there are some questions renters should ask about the unit itself at this stage to learn more about how it has been maintained, how long it’s been empty, and any questions related to rules or policies surrounding your occupancy. Here are some examples:

• What’s the expected move-in date?
• Does the unit currently have any damage?
• How often do you conduct inspections of the property?
• Are you planning any major renovations/repairs in the near future?
• Who will be the main point of contact?

#4 – Questions to ask before signing a lease

The final hurdle you’ll have to cross before your rental arrangement is official is signing the all-important lease agreement. Before you do though, you’ll want to make sure everything is in order and you understand every lease term completely. If there are any details you aren’t sure about, this is your last chance to ask questions before the agreement becomes legally binding. Here are some examples:

• Can you clarify this term?
• What’s the best way to reach you?
• Is lease renewal an option?
• How do you accept rent payments?

For an expanded list of questions for each of these four checkpoints, plus additional checkpoints and questions not mentioned here, be sure to download your copy of our full guide.

liv.rent tips and resources for renters

In addition to taking an active role in your rental search by asking plenty of questions, there are a few other strategies we’d recommend for keeping yourself safe and ensuring you find your perfect rental home. Using a variety of liv.rent features, you can not only save yourself time by automating your rental search and applications, and also eliminate a lot of the uncertainty that comes with browsing listings and interacting with landlords. Here are three of our top tips:

Tip #1: Look out for verified listings & landlords

When browsing most listing websites, it can be hard to tell what’s real and what’s not without relying on your own intuition. Thankfully, liv.rent has made it easier than ever to browse listings safely with our multi-step verification processes. Keep an eye out for the icons below and rent with confidence knowing that you’re interacting with real landlords and listings.

Tip #2: Take advantage of liv.rent’s easy one-click applications

Applying for rentals is easier than ever on liv.rent thanks to convenient one-click applications. Complete your profile once and apply to multiple listings in just seconds, all your relevant information is available to landlords instantly with the all-new Trust Score. Cut down on your time spent searching and apply to more rentals with less effort – you can watch the video below for a quick guide on how to apply for listings on liv.rent.

Tip #3: Keep track of conversations with the chat timeline

Communicating with landlords and keeping track of your chat history is a breeze with liv.rent’s chat timelines. In one place, you can:

• Inquire about a listing
• Send in your application
• Receive a contract from a landlord
• Send your signed version of the digital lease back to your landlord
• Receive payment requests
• Review credit card or bitcoin payment receipts

Additional resources

If you’d like to learn more about how to conduct a safe, efficient rental search, be sure to check out these other resources from liv.rent full of tips for everything from leveraging liv.rent features for easier searching, to keeping your data safe when renting online.

Searching for rentals

• Protect yourself from rental scams
• Toronto’s best apartment rental websites
• Vancouver’s best apartment rental websites
• How to secure a home before arriving in Canada

Applying for rentals

• How to use liv.rent’s Trust Score
• What information landlords can ask for
• What kind of credit score do you need to rent an apartment?

Signing a lease

• B.C. Residential Tenancy Agreement Explained
• How to renegotiate your lease

Looking for the complete list with all 56 questions renters should ask potential landlords during the application process? Download your copy here to unlock the full guide.

Rethink The Way You Rent

Not on liv.rent yet? Experience the ease of digital applications & contracts, verified tenants & landlords, virtual tours and more – all on one platform. Sign up for free or download the app.

Subscribe to receive the latest tenant & landlord tips and get notified about changes in the Canadian rental market.

>> Stay up-to-date on the average rent in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal: Rent Reports.

The post 56 Questions Renters Should Ask Landlords Before Signing A Lease appeared first on liv.rent blog.

For Data Privacy Day this year, we’re taking a closer look at data privacy during the rental process and what landlords and renters can do to ensure their precious information remains secure.

Table of Contents

What is data privacy?

First and foremost, what exactly is data privacy? Essentially, data privacy refers to strategies for handling sensitive data online in a way that meets regulatory standards and protects the confidentiality of users’ information. This is of key concern when it comes to renting, due to the amount and sensitivity of information exchanged between landlords and renters.

As more aspects of our day-to-day lives move online, there’s growing concern about how and why companies are using our data and personal information – and rightfully so. Your information has become a valuable commodity for brokers and marketers who can use your data for a number of purposes. Normally, these purposes are relatively harmless. Plenty of websites claim to capture user data in order to refine the user experience and improve their marketing, but there are certainly more nefarious uses as well.

Renting online certainly isn’t exempt from this. Both renters and landlords need to provide key information about themselves, their finances, and more in order to register and use most platforms – making it an easy target for data brokers or worse: data breaches. Your best strategy for safeguarding your digital privacy as a consumer is seeking out platforms and websites with robust security measures, clear privacy policies and concrete statements as to what they’re doing with your information. Naturally, this isn’t always easy to find.

In spite of the Canadian Government’s efforts to regulate data privacy through policies like The Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), it’s ultimately up to individual businesses to decide how they’ll use and store their users’ information. That’s why liv.rent promises to never sell your data in order to protect our safe, trusted community of renters and landlords.

Renters: How to protect your information when renting online

Renters face a disproportionate risk when it comes to data security during the rental process. Today’s landlords understandably look for a complete picture of a tenant’s personal, financial and rental history before putting pen to paper on a lease agreement, which requires renters to fill out numerous forms, checks and registrations in the hopes of securing a rental. Ensuring that all of this precious data stays in the right hands is a frequently overlooked but hugely important aspect of the rental process.

Let’s look now at some common data privacy threats renters face, and our tips for preventing them:

Threat #1 – Rental sites sharing/selling personal data

Unfortunately, it’s more common than you think for rental platforms to share or sell your personal information. While data sharing has become an almost inevitable part of the rental process in order to improve business’ marketing and user experience as well as offer credit and background checks, renters should be careful about the extent of the sharing. Selling data is a different story. By commodifying your information, your data is essentially sold to the highest bidder and by that point, the matter is almost entirely out of your hands.

liv.rent tip:

Before entering any personal information on a rental platform, take a closer look at their privacy policy. These documents aren’t meant to be a thrilling read, but they should provide more insight into what that site is doing with your data. If it’s hard to find this information or the wording is ambiguous, that’s generally not a good sign. Do note that the majority of websites will share your information in some way, so it’s important to decide what you’re comfortable with

Instead, opt for rental platforms that collect minimal data and are clear about where it’s going, and why. We can’t speak for our competitors, but liv.rent is committed to never selling your data and we provide clear direction as to what data we do collect, and why we collect it.

Threat #2 – Fake listings designed to steal personal information

Rental scams are unfortunately growing more common and more sophisticated, forcing renters to stay on their toes when browsing for apartments. There are countless variations out there, but perhaps the most sinister are fake listing scams that encourage you to submit a full application immediately, often including private information like your Social Security Number or banking info.

liv.rent tip:

Watch out for red flags as you’re browsing listings – if it looks too good to be true or you have a bad feeling, trust your gut. A popular tactic to encourage applications is creating a false sense of urgency by saying that the listing is only up for a limited time and that renters must act immediately to be considered. Requesting too much information upfront is also a notable warning sign.

For added security, consider using a rental platform with verified landlords and listings, such as liv.rent. Our multi-step verification process gives renters peace of mind by ensuring that you’re dealing with real landlords and real listings.

Threat #3 – Hackers attack landlords to steal tenants’ information

Unfortunately, renters don’t have a ton of control over how landlords handle and store their personal information, meaning that if their security is compromised, your data is also at risk. While thankfully these cyber attacks aren’t all that common, it’s a frightening concept and definitely worth protecting yourself against however possible.

liv.rent tip:

Be aware of how landlords are storing your information. Wherever possible, go through the rental process on an all-in-one platform that offers secure, encrypted storage of sensitive information. Naturally, this isn’t always an option when you’re trying to secure a rental as fast as possible, but platforms like liv.rent are an obvious choice thanks to secure cloud-based storage backed by military-grade encryption protocols for safe, convenient data storage. As well, liv.rent automatically deletes identifiers once the information has been used for its specified purpose, and asks only what is necessary.

Threat #4 – Landlords asking for too much information

It’s understandable for landlords to ask for lots of information during the rental process in order to get a good picture of who you are as a renter. With that being said, there’s plenty of pieces of information that are off-limits. Knowing your rights as a tenant and only providing what’s necessary is a great way to keep yourself safe during the rental process.

liv.rent tip:

Brush up on your knowledge of your local tenancy and human rights laws before you start applying for rentals. In many cases, landlords simply aren’t aware of what they can ask and there’s no malicious intent, but it never hurts to be cautious.

Threat #5 – Unsecured mobile devices/WiFi networks

This applies to pretty much any online activity, but is especially relevant when it comes to renting. Unsecured devices and wireless networks are prime candidates for information theft due to how easy it is to monitor others’ activity without the proper protocols in place.

liv.rent tip:

Never submit applications or fill out sensitive information over public WiFi as these networks are extremely susceptible to information theft. If you can avoid it, try to wait until you’re home to access or send any important rental documents rather than using the network at your local coffee shop. For your personal devices, be sure to turn on two-factor authentication for added security.

Landlords: How to ensure your tenants’ and your own data privacy

Tenants aren’t the only ones whose data privacy is at risk during the rental process. Since landlords typically store information about applicants throughout the rental process and even afterwards, they’re just as likely to fall prey to cyber-attacks and information theft. Taking steps to protect not only yourself but your tenants is key to renting online safely.

Let’s look now at some of the threats facing landlords and how liv.rent can help you prevent them before they become an issue.

Threat #1 – Data that isn’t stored securely

Are you familiar with how your rental platform of choice is storing your and your tenants’ information? Plenty of sensitive information is exchanged during the rental process and safeguarding this data should be a priority for every landlord and property manager. Especially when you’re using multiple platforms for different facets of the rental process like listing, tenant screening, marketing, and rental management, it’s hard to stay on top of where all this data is going.

liv.rent tip:

When deciding where to post your rental listing, look for an all-in-one rental platform that offers secure data storage. This way, both you and your tenants can rest assured that information is handled properly and isn’t at risk of being sold or otherwise compromised. One great option is liv.rent – our secure, cloud-based storage allows landlords to keep track of their most important documents in one place, all protected by military-grade encryption.

Threat #2 – Weak passwords

You’ve no doubt heard it before, but weak passwords are a one-way ticket to jeopardizing your personal information, and in landlords’ case, can put your tenants’ data at risk as well. Particularly if you’re re-using passwords for multiple websites and platforms, one weak password can quickly turn into a data privacy nightmare.

liv.rent tip:

Create strong passwords for any new accounts, and update existing passwords whenever you can. As well, try not to use the same password for different websites as this puts you at risk of having multiple accounts compromised. Another good strategy is to not incorporate personal details like your pet’s name or where you grew up into your password as this information can easily be dug up on social media.

Threat #3 – Malicious emails & Malware/Viruses

We’ve all received questionable emails in the past, and hackers are showing no signs of stopping. The links and attachments contained within these messages are more often than not connected to phishing scams that put your passwords and information at risk.

liv.rent tip:

Don’t open any messages from suspicious email addresses, and certainly don’t click on any links or attachments. It’s also a good idea to install anti-virus software on your computer and avoid using company devices for general use.

FAQ: Data privacy and renting

For both landlords and renters, the best way to protect your information during the rental process is by using a secure, all-in-one rental platform. Rent with confidence on liv.rent with secure, encrypted data storage, verified listings, landlords & tenants, and more. Sign up today to take back control of your data privacy.

Rethink The Way You Rent

Not on liv.rent yet? Experience the ease of digital applications & contracts, verified tenants & landlords, virtual tours and more – all on one platform. Sign up for free or download the app.

Subscribe to receive the latest tenant & landlord tips and get notified about changes in the Canadian rental market.

>> Stay up-to-date on the average rent in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal: Rent Reports.

The post Data Privacy And Renting: How To Protect Your Information appeared first on liv.rent blog.

How do I find rentals in Vancouver?

Renters have plenty of options for finding a place to rent in Vancouver. Gone are the days of canvassing neighbourhoods for “for rent” signs – though this can still be an effective, albeit time-consuming strategy. Instead, today’s renters should take advantage of the wide variety of rental websites available in Vancouver and across Canada to help streamline their search.

There’s an almost overwhelming amount of options for rental websites, though, and it can be hard for renters to know where to start. For landlords too, discerning every platform’s features and finally choosing a place to post your listing can be a tough task on top of an already busy workload. That’s why we’ve collected our top picks for the best rental websites Vancouver. Here’s the list!

1. liv.rent

Features — 12/12

Starting Price (for Landlords)

liv.rent is a Vancouver-based all-in-one rental platform that allows landlords and tenants to rent safely and securely thanks to an extensive verification process and tools like the Trust Score. As you can see, the platform unsurprisingly ticks all of our boxes, and has a variety of flexible payment options for landlords to get started and rent better.

Renters

On liv.rent, tenants can easily search for rentals using a variety of filters and even a map view, then quickly message landlords for more information using built-in instant chat. From there, they can submit applications, book viewings and when it comes time, sign lease agreements and pay rent and security deposits through a variety of methods including credit cards, UnionPay and even Bitcoin.

The platform also has standard digital lease agreements for B.C., in addition to a variety of customizable lease addendums to add detail to your contract. For quick and effective tenant screening, liv.rent created the Trust Score, which gives landlords a comprehensive picture of a tenant’s suitability including a credit summary, a detailed risk assessment, income & employment verification, and more. All in all, this complete platform is the best way to advertise your apartment for rent.

For landlords looking to further streamline their rental process and gain access to the same tools used by professional property managers, liv.rent’s new Growth plan is here to make renting even easier. The Growth plan is effectively an all-in-one property management software package, with all the tools you’ll need to digitize and streamline your rental process from start to finish. For just $48/month, this comprehensive plan includes:

• Unlimited lease protection addendums
• 2 Trust Score reports with credit check per month
• Automated rental advertising (2 per month)
• Shared management tools for up to 3 users

…plus everything in our Essentials plan.

2. Zumper

Zumper is another all-in-one rental platform that Vancouver renters and landlords will likely encounter. In addition to its visually-appealing layout, Zumper has features to help landlords and tenants navigate every stage of the rental process, including tenant screening and rent collection.

Renters

For renters, Zumper offers a convenient way to browse and apply for listings thanks to its visually appealing layout. With that being said, the site does lack the comprehensive security and verification features of other platforms like liv.rent, though it does allow for the entire rental process to be completed within the site.

Landlords

Zumper also has a full 12/12 features, including digital contracts and rent payments and a variety of tools to help you create and share listings. The only area where the site falters is in its security protocols, which aren’t as in-depth as other platforms. Also, though it’s free to start, Zumper charges 2% of rent for landlords or property managers who have more than 10 listings, which makes it a costly option for businesses. Still, this platform’s wide range of features put it in contention for the best rental websites in Vancouver.

3. Zillow

Zillow is primarily a platform for buying and selling real estate, but the site can also be ranked among the best rental websites Vancouver. The platform has a variety of tools to simplify the lives of both landlords and renters, although it’s two shy of a perfect 12. Zillow is free to start for landlords but can get costly quickly if you’re posting more than one listing due to the weekly rate.

Renters

Zillow is fairly easy to browse thanks to a handy map view and a simple, easy-to-navigate layout. Renters can also request to book showings/submit applications directly from the listing page using pre-set forms. It’s also handy to be able to see exactly when listings were posted front and centre to save time applying to outdated posts.

Landlords

Zillow has a good range of descriptors and options for creating great-looking listings which include room for tons of photos as well as 3D tours. The site also provides a convenient neighbourhood map for all listings, in addition to an FAQ section that gives more information about the property and its location. Zillow has a number of convenient features for managing rentals as well, including rent payments and digital contracts, though it lacks some marketing and organizational tools.

4. Kijiji

Features: 5 / 12

Kijiji is a marketplace site that has also become a popular place for landlords and renters to post and find rental listings. The platform offers a basic suite of listing features including plenty of fields and filters for filling out specific details and room for lots of photos.

Renters

Kijiji is a good basic option for browsing and applying for listings, though it lacks many features that renters may look for. The site does allow for messaging within the platform which makes for much easier communication. Unfortunately, Kijiji doesn’t have much in the way of security features and provides little protection against scams.

Landlords

For landlords, Kijiji is a perfectly suitable place to post your listings due to the site’s broad audience and high traffic, though that’s about all it offers. Unlike Craigslist, Kijiji does have a chat feature for easy communication, as well as a centralized inbox for easy lead management.

5. Rentals.ca

Rentals.ca is another popular place to find and rent apartments, houses and condos, and offers a user-friendly layout as well as excellent search capabilities and an interactive map.

Renters

Rentals.ca is a great option for renters looking for the best rental websites in Vancouver primarily because of the number of listings available. Since it’s such a popular platform, there are plenty of rentals to choose from and the site makes it easy to navigate them thanks to a split-screen map/photo view and lots of different search filters.

Landlords

Rentals.ca allows landlords to post for free, and the site offers lots of ways to customize your listing and make it stand out, including a photo gallery and neighbourhood score. Because it’s a listing site, Rentals.ca doesn’t provide features for navigating the rental process beyond inquiries.

6. PadMapper

As its name suggests, PadMapper provides an easy-to-use map view for convenient navigation, as well as a variety of search features. The site is fairly bare-bones in terms of appearance and features, but does work exceptionally well for what it does.

Renters

PadMapper lets renters browse with ease thanks to an interactive map and various filters. As far as communications, PadMapper allows tenants to send messages with their phone number and email address to get in touch with landlords. The platform doesn’t mention any specific security or verification processes, though it does require a precise address in order to post a listing.

Landlords

PadMapper is a simple, effective way for landlords to get their listings posted quickly, though the site doesn’t offer support for much beyond inquiries. The site’s map view is extremely easy to navigate though, a feature which tenants still gravitate towards.

7. Facebook Marketplace/Groups

Facebook Groups and even Marketplace are great ways to find places to rent in Vancouver. Though renters and landlords should exercise caution when using the platform due to the potential for fraudulent posts and users, there are plenty of local, moderated groups that allow for easy browsing and the ability to get in touch over Facebook Messenger. For a safe, convenient Facebook Group, check out liv.rent’s own curated rental group, where we post and share apartments, houses and rooms for rent in Vancouver.

Renters

Facebook has become a great option for renters to browse apartments thanks to the volume of posts, though this is also its greatest downfall. Because Facebook has never claimed to be a rental platform, the site has few checks in place for screening out scams, although there are many moderated groups that provide a safer alternative.

Landlords

Landlords looking to reach a broad audience would do well to post their listing to Facebook due to the large number of renters browsing the platform. Though it doesn’t provide much in the way of additional features, it’s easy to get your listing posted and communicate through the built-in Messenger app.

8. Craigslist

If you’ve ever rented in Vancouver before, you’re likely no stranger to Craigslist. The marketplace site has become an extremely popular place to post and find rental listings due to its pared-down appeal and ease of use. Though it may come out on top in terms of the number of listings available, the site lacks many of the security features renters and landlords should look for in a rental platform.

Renters

Renters can easily browse the site using a good selection of filters. For applications, Craigslist lists landlords’ email addresses and/or phone numbers for renters to get in touch. Do use caution when applying to rentals on Craigslist though – since there’s little in the way of verification, it’s not uncommon to come across rental scams on the site.

Landlords

Craigslist does provide a basic listing template including room for plenty of photos. The site also allows for a map view of each property and provides ample room for a description, as well as pre-set options for details about the unit. Renters can easily browse for rentals using a good selection of filters. For applications, Craigslist lists landlords’ email addresses and/or phone numbers for renters to get in touch.

Renters: What is the best website to find rental homes?

For renters, choosing a rental website that prioritizes your safety and security while giving you access to plenty of listings is key. When we look at both of these categories together, there’s a clear winner among the rental websites discussed here: liv.rent.

In addition to being one of the few platforms available in Vancouver that allows renters to conduct the entire rental process online – from application to rent payment, liv.rent stands tall as the safest rental website. Not only this, liv.rent also has over 600 listings available in Vancouver at the time of writing, which puts it solidly among the top rental websites in the area in terms of quantity.

For the hands-down best all-in-one rental platform, be sure to start your search on liv.rent.

Landlords: What is the best website to find tenants and manage your rentals?

Websites like Craigslist and Kijiji are great for landlords looking to simply post their listing and nothing more, but this isn’t usually the case. Today’s landlords look for a rental platform that allows them to perform all their essential functions in one place, and in that respect, liv.rent is the clear winner for best apartment rental website in Vancouver.

The platform’s broad range of marketing and management features put it head and shoulders above the competition, while flexible pricing plans let both landlords and property managers find an option that works for them. As well, liv.rent has a detailed verification process for tenants including the Trust Score, where you can view employment/income verification, credit checks and more in an easy-to-understand format. Best of all? It’s completely free to post unlimited listings, as well as access many liv.rent features like rent collection and standard digital contracts.

If you’re searching for an easier way to list and manage your rentals, be sure to sign up for liv.rent today.

What is the best rental website in Vancouver?

As we stated earlier, liv.rent takes the proverbial cake for Vancouver’s best apartment rental website due to its streamlined approach to the rental process and next-level security and safety features. The variety of different functions landlords renters can perform without leaving the platform sets liv.rent apart, like sending, receiving & signing digital leases, scheduling and paying rent through Automated Direct Deposit (or Bitcoin!), all backed by ultra-secure encryption protocols and manually verified landlords, tenants and listings. In terms of quantity and variety of listings as well, liv.rent has more than enough different rental listings to go toe-to-toe with global heavyweights like Zillow and Zumper, as well as local favourites like Craigslist.

Particularly for first-time renters, students, or those renting from abroad, using a rental platform that protects you from the stress and financial burden of scams should be your first priority. In the absence of face-to-face communications, there are plenty of opportunities for dishonest or deceitful behaviour on either end of the rental process. Our goal at liv.rent is to reduce the risk of potential scams by helping connect verified landlords & tenants to build a trusted rental community.

Start your search for Vancouver rentals today — sign up for liv.rent for FREE and enjoy unlimited access to verified listings, trusted landlords & more.

FAQ: The best apartment rental websites in Vancouver

How do I find a place to rent in Vancouver?

An apartment rental website is the most common method of finding housing in Vancouver, though some renters still prefer to look for a place to rent in person. If you do want to go digital, this list should provide a good idea of where to start your search.

We’d highly recommend starting on liv.rent, since this is the only platform on our list with verification processes for both landlords and listings, which ensures you’re protected from costly rental scams.

What is the best site to find a rental?

Again, our vote would have to go to liv.rent. With plenty of listings in the city of Vancouver and surrounding areas and a complete 12/12 features, not to mention its unique safety features, this all-in-one rental platform is the best site to find a rental in Vancouver.

Where is the best place to advertise a rental?

For landlords as well, liv.rent is the best option for listing and advertising rentals in Vancouver thanks to its easy listing sharing and features like built-in tenant screening with the Trust Score.

Is it hard to find a place to rent in Vancouver?

There are many factors that go into determining how easy or hard it might be to secure rental housing, such as competition, vacancy rates, and the time of year. In general, renters will have a tougher time finding a place to rent in Vancouver during the summer months and into the fall as students return to school, while the winter months are typically a bit slower with less competition, but scarcer units.

How do I advertise a place to rent?

Once you’ve posted your listing online, your best strategy for advertising your listing and renting it as quickly as possible is by sharing it to multiple platforms. You can read liv.rent’s guide to effectively advertising your rental property here for more helpful tips.

Rethink The Way You Rent

Not on liv.rent yet? Experience the ease of digital applications & contracts, verified tenants & landlords, virtual tours and more – all on one platform. Sign up for free or download the app.

Subscribe to receive the latest tenant & landlord tips and get notified about changes in the Canadian rental market.

>> Stay up-to-date on the average rent in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal: Rent Reports.

The post The Top 8 Apartment Rental Websites In Vancouver 2026 appeared first on liv.rent blog.

In this article, we’ll show you how to secure a place in Canada from abroad by doing everything online — search, apply, view, sign and pay.

How to search online for a home to rent in Canada

Where to start your search

Rental listing sites — This is probably the easiest and most efficient way to look for apartments and houses for rent in Canada. From liv.rent to Kijiji, there’s a myriad of rental websites you can search from. If you’re searching for rentals in Toronto, here are the top 9 apartment rental websites you can start off with.

Social media — Another way to look for rentals is through Facebook Marketplace, Facebook Groups, Instagram, YouTube and Subreddits. You can check out Facebook Groups such as Vancouver Rentals and Toronto Rentals or subreddits such as r/vancouverhousing and r/TorontoRenting.

University housing sites — If you’re a student, try contacting the “off-campus housing” department of your university or college. They’ll be able to assist you and direct you to the right resource or housing site specific to students.

What to look out for when you’re searching

Is the landlord who they say they are? If the landlord’s identity is unclear or hidden behind a numbered company, be cautious. Identify theft and cash deposits being stolen can happen, so it’s important to know how to protect yourself.

Does the rental unit actually exist? If the photos seem similar to another listing or address details are withheld, you should dig deeper. Search on Google Maps to ensure that the images aren’t pulled from an actual sale listing. Also, request a live virtual tour of the property.

Tip: When you’re searching on liv.rent, check that the landlord and listing has a “verified checkmark” next to their profile and address. This means that the landlord has been verified with a government-issued ID or business license, and the listing has been verified by mail or land title documents.

Is too much information being requested upfront? Never provide your credit card or bank account information until you decide to move forward with a lease. However, some landlords may request that you apply before booking a viewing. In this case, they may ask for bank statements or tax information to ensure that you’re able to cover rent payments.

Learn more to find out what information a landlord is allowed to ask for.

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How to apply online for a rental in Canada

Before you apply for a rental, make sure you have the right documentation. The two most important pieces of information you’ll need to provide are financial documents (e.g. bank statements, employment letters) and references from your past landlords.

Here’s a quick overview of what landlords may ask for:

How to apply for a rental through liv.rent

When you’re applying on liv.rent, you’ll be guided through the entire rental application that consists of four components: ID verification, basic profile, Trust Score (renter’s credibility rating system), and references. Once completed, you’ll be able to submit this application (think of it as your Renter’s Resume) to any listing on liv.rent.

Watch now: How to fill out your application (i.e. Renter’s Resume)

Step 1) ID Verification

The first step is to verify your ID, so that landlords know you’re a verified renter. This involves uploading a government-issued document: driver’s license, passport, health insurance card, or permanent residence card. Once uploaded, you’ll be asked to take a photo of yourself and the liv.rent team will manually verify to ensure your identity and information match.

Note: Your authentication information is only temporarily stored. Once you’ve been verified, liv.rent will immediately remove all copies in a secured manner.

Step 2) Basic Profile

The next step is to provide background information that will give landlords an overview of who you are and your current status. This includes information such as your name, contact info, current address and an introduction about yourself. If you’re living outside of Canada, select the country you’re currently residing in and put down your home address.

Tip: Take advantage of the “About Yourself” section by sharing any additional information you would like landlords to know.

Step 3) Trust Score

Powered by AI and an algorithm that corroborates submitted information to assign a score for every renter, Trust Score is an intelligent rating system that evaluates a renter’s reliability and credibility. This score will be used by landlords to assess and rank prospective tenants.

In order to receive a Trust Score, there are three parts to complete:

Credit check — As a newcomer to Canada, you can select the option “I do not have a credit history in Canada“. This will explain to prospective landlords why a credit score is not available for you.

Financial documents — If you do not have an active letter of employment or job offer in Canada, you can select the option “Not Employed“. Then, under Income Verification, you can upload a bank statement that shows you have at least one year’s worth of rent in your bank account.

If you’re a student, you can select the option “Student” and upload your enrolment letter or student card to prove your student status.

Note: Once these documents have been verified, it will be securely removed from the system and landlords will not have access to any sensitive information.

ID verification — If you’ve completed Step 1, then no action is required.

Step 4) References

The last step in your rental application is to provide either employment or landlord references. If you’re renting for the first time or your landlord references are from your home country, select the option “I’m a first-time renter and do not have any landlord references“. As an alternative, cite an employer, teacher, or immigration agency as your reference; essentially, choose someone who can attest to your reliability as a renter.

Tip: Secure a Canadian cell phone number as soon as possible. Having an active local number in advance will help you open utility accounts, bank accounts, and more. You may also be asked for a domestic number at your point of entry.

How to view your rental virtually

Virtual tours can be just as effective as in-person viewings if a) you know what to look for and b) you know what to ask. There are two things to keep in mind during a virtual tour:

Don’t be afraid to check — Have the landlord demonstrate that all appliances are working (e.g. run faucets, flush toilets, check stoves, turn on lights).

Prepare questions — Let the landlord do the talking by asking open-ended questions (e.g. describe your ideal tenant.) Also, ask questions that can uncover information not addressed in the ads (e.g. how much interest have you had for this unit?)

How to sign a digital lease agreement

You can review, sign, send and renew leases for rental agreements in B.C. and Ontario on the liv.rent platform — online or in app.

The advice we always give to renters is to review before signing. Once you’ve signed, the lease becomes binding.

First, make sure you’re familiar with what should and should not be allowed on the lease agreement. This will vary by province.

• BC Residential Tenancy Agreement
• Ontario Standard Lease

Next, as you’re looking over the lease agreement, make note of three areas:

Rent amount and additional costs — Check if the lease states the correct rent amount, when it is due, and the acceptable forms of rent payment (e.g. e-transfer, credit card, cheque, etc.) Also, see if there are any additional costs like security or pet deposits.

Custom addendums — Landlords may choose to add additional terms to the basic lease agreement through custom addendums. It can be related to pets, smoking, subletting or late payment fees. Pay extra attention to these portions! These are also binding as long as the tenant agrees to them and they don’t conflict with the Residential Tenancy Act.

Lease extension — Pay attention to what the lease says will happen after the lease ends. In B.C. and Ontario, after a lease expires, it’s transitioned into a month-to-month rental agreement — unless the landlord added an addendum about vacating.

In most cases, when the lease term is up, you and your landlord may decide to sign another lease. However, you are not required to do so.

How to set up digital rent payment

Even if you did not apply and/or sign a lease agreement through liv.rent, you can still set up digital rent payment on liv.rent and select one of the following payment options: credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), Union Pay, and even by Bitcoin.

Note: If your landlord isn’t on liv.rent but you want to pay with credit card, Union Pay or Bitcoin — contact support@liv.rent so that we can help you onboard your landlord and set up digital rent payment.

How it works: Your landlord will send you a payment request through the liv.rent app. Then, you can easily pay via whichever method you choose. You’ll also receive payment reminders that you can turn on or off in your profile settings after your rental contract is active.

Rethink The Way You Rent

Not on liv.rent yet? Experience the ease of digital applications & contracts, verified tenants & landlords, virtual tours and more – all on one platform. Sign up for free or download the app.

Subscribe to receive the latest tenant & landlord tips and get notified about changes in the Canadian rental market.

>> Stay up-to-date on the average rent in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal: Rent Reports.

The post Rent In Canada: How To Secure A Home Before Coming To Canada appeared first on liv.rent blog.

In this “Ask An Expert,” we’re talking to Duuo’s Partner Success Specialist. Duuo is an insurance distributor that’s backed by The Co-operators, and Katie Garland knows first hand about the concerns landlords and renters have about tenant insurance.

She spoke with liv.rent to help demystify insurance and how Duuo’s automated online services can streamline your business or move-in process.

Let’s learn more about tenant insurance now and see why both landlords and tenants should keep it at the top of their move-in checklist:

Table of Contents

What is tenant insurance?

We’ll break down the three key features of tenant insurance: personal liability, additional living expenses, and contents coverage.

Personal liability

Personal liability provides coverage in the event that your negligence causes damage to someone or someone’s stuff.

“So if someone comes into your apartment, trips over a loose power cord, falls, and then decides to sue you for their medical bills or loss of income as a result of their injury, then the personal liability section of your policy is designed to cover you,” Katie said.

Additional living expenses

“If your home, because of an insured loss or a covered claim, becomes uninhabitable, then the additional living expenses portion of your policy is meant to cover the cost of alternate accommodations,” said Katie.

“It also covers a portion of the costs for food and other items to help get you by until you can go back to your residence.”

For example, say your upstairs neighbour floods their apartment, and subsequently yours and you need to stay at a hotel or Airbnb while your suite undergoes emergency repairs. Additional living expenses can help cover those costs.

Contents coverage

And then finally, there’s contents coverage, and Katie said that “this element of the policy is designed to cover your personal belongings within your residence or while they’re away from your home in storage.”

Basically, if your stuff gets damaged, stolen, or misplaced, then this part of your policy is designed to help you replace the items. 

“One thing I always like to remind people is to make sure that you have adequate coverage for your contents,” she said. 

Why tenant insurance matters

Why do renters need it? Doesn’t a landlord’s insurance cover them?

Tenant Insurance is designed to protect a renter and their stuff. Landlords have their own insurance, but if a renter is responsible for any damage caused to the unit, then a landlord’s insurance company could turn to the tenant to cover the costs.

“A lot of people think that situations like theft, a kitchen fire, or water damage will never happen to them. It’s something we hear about with other people, but it’s hard to imagine in our own lives.”

“It’s better to have it in place and it’s just another thing to check off the checklist when you’re moving into a new space,” said Katie.

“It doesn’t take very long to sign up for coverage, so it’s something that can be done really quickly and easily,” Katie said.

Tenant insurance tips for renters

What’s a big misconception about insurance?

Katie said that one of the largest misconceptions is when people neglect to get insurance because they feel like they don’t own many things or their belongings aren’t of much value. So, if you’re wondering if you need tenant insurance, then it’s time for you to take stock of things.

“People always say, ‘well, I don’t have that much stuff so I don’t need $25,000 worth of coverage,’ but if you truly sat in your apartment and looked around at everything you have, and if you had to purchase everything again — It would add up very quickly.”

Even the small things like your toiletries, kitchen staples, and clothing can be expensive to replace. Having coverage for that is helpful because you don’t want to spend money to replace things you already had.

What’s a quick tip about insurance you wish renters knew?

“I think just finding the coverage that works for you is really important,” said Katie.

“I know with Duuo, we’re very flexible with our coverages, so you can kind of make it fit to what you need. We understand that tenant insurance can be tricky, so people like me are always available to help answer any questions you might have about your coverage,” she said.

She also points out that you know yourself and you can trust yourself, but there’s something else to consider if you’re on the fence about insurance.

“You know what you’re doing, but can you also trust your neighbours to be 100% careful all the time? You never know what’s going to happen.”

So even if you’re a responsible tenant, if your neighbour causes a fire or flood due to their negligence, it will adversely affect you. So, having tenants insurance is a proactive approach that can offer a lot of peace of mind.

“I know I’ll be safe. I know I’ll be cautious, but I’m also gonna be able to take care of myself should something happen,” is the mindset Katie thinks is important to have.

Tenant insurance tips for landlords

Why should landlords ask tenants to get insurance?

“Bottom line, it’s about safety and you want to protect your tenants. You’re doing everything you can to protect the home that they’re living in, but you also want them to be able to protect themselves if something ever happened.”

“Tenant insurance adds that extra layer of trust and protection between the tenant and the landlord. Just knowing that a landlord is looking out for their tenant’s best interest and in return, the tenant should do the same,” said Katie.

She said that one of the biggest reasons why landlords are keen to partner with Duuo is because they make it easy to get their tenants covered. Through their partnership program, they offer easy tools that help landlords track coverage while offering special rates to the tenants of their partner buildings.

No property manager or landlord wants to see their tenants end up in a difficult situation. They may even have to move out due to the financial burden of losing their home.

What’s Duuo insurance?

What makes Duuo different?

Now that you might have a better understanding of tenant insurance and its importance, why go with Duuo?

“We are online and on-demand, which means tenants can purchase coverage in just a few minutes without having to speak to a broker,” said Katie.

“We offer month-to-month policies without service or cancellation fees, so you don’t really feel locked in and you have the ability to adapt to the changing world,” she said.

Duuo’s flexibility makes them a good choice for renters who are on the move because it’s easy to cancel your old policy and start your new one in your next home. They also have additional information about tenant insurance available on their blog.

liv.rent & Duuo

How do liv.rent and Duuo use digitalization to improve the lives of renters and landlords?

“I think there’s a lot of things in this world that are stressful,” said Katie, “I know that moving and getting a place can be taxing, but I think with what liv.rent is doing and what Duuo is doing — it takes away that stress.”

By having a digital-first approach to insurance and renting, liv.rent and Duuo are helping landlords and tenants to save time, save energy.

Landlords and tenants can reach Duuo now to learn about their personalized onboarding programs for landlords that provide tenants with specific coverage that they need.

With preferred partner rates, tenants will appreciate you looking out for them and getting them a better deal.

Rethink The Way You Rent

Not on liv.rent yet? Experience the ease of digital applications & contracts, verified tenants & landlords, virtual tours and more – all on one platform. Sign up for free or download the app.

Subscribe to receive the latest tenant & landlord tips and get notified about changes in the Canadian rental market.

>> Stay up-to-date on the average rent in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal: Rent Reports.

The post Ask An Expert: Duuo’s Katie Garland On Tenant Insurance FAQs appeared first on liv.rent blog.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of coming to Canada to study this fall as an international student, how to stay safe while searching for and applying to listings, how to secure a home before you arrive, and the best places to look for rental housing.

Table of Contents

International students coming to Canada during COVID-19

Though we’re now over two years into the global COVID-19 pandemic, there are still steps travellers must take to prepare for their trip and ensure they’re permitted entry to Canada. Being an international student requires you to have all your travel, school, and government documents together before flying. Unfortunately, with the COVID-19 pandemic still going on in Canada, there are a few more things that students need to be aware of before they arrive. Here’s what you need to know:

Note: COVID-19 rules and guidelines are constantly changing. That’s why we included a resources section at the end of this article for you to check with the Government of Canada for the latest updates.

Getting a study permit

The study permitting process has, for the most part, returned to normal in Canada after potential delays related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, students are encouraged to apply online before arriving to the country – unless they meet one of a few conditions, in which case they may apply at the port of entry.

Be aware that even with things mostly returned to normal, it may take up to 90 days for your study permit to be processed. Make sure to leave ample time between your acceptance and your arrival date to avoid any hiccups.

Designated learning institutions

In order to apply for a study permit in Canada, you must first have been accepted to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). This is a school that has been approved by the province’s or territory’s government to host international students.

• Check the list of approved DLIs

COVID-19 travel rules & guidelines

Canada’s COVID-19 travel rules are constantly changing, so it’s important to check for the latest updates before you depart. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll need to know before you arrive in Canada:

1. Fully Vaccinated Travellers – If you’ve received at least 2 doses of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine, with the second dose administered at least 14 days before entering Canada, you’ll be exempt from pre-entry testing upon arrival. Students seeking this designation should also show no signs of COVID-19, and make sure to upload the required documents to the ArriveCAN app to prove their vaccination status.
2. Unvaccinated Travellers – If you don’t qualify as a fully vaccinated traveller, you may still be allowed entry into Canada in most cases, although you’ll need to complete pre-entry, arrival, and day-8 tests. For specific requirements, check the latest updates here.

Note: each province in Canada has their own provincial guidelines about COVID-19, in addition to policies at individual post-secondary institutions.

How to rent in Canada from abroad

Once you’ve been accepted to study in Canada and you’ve successfully acquired your study permit, it’s time to start looking for a place to live. Depending on when you receive your

That’s not a lot of time, but if you use liv.rent then you can start your search today and secure a home from anywhere.

We made every step of the rental process digital. That means you can search for listings, view units, chat with landlords, apply, sign your contract, and pay your rent all online and in our app.

Sign up to liv.rent now and complete your profile only when you’re ready to apply.

Complete your liv.rent renter profile

We call your profile your “renter resume” because once you fill it out, you can use it to apply to multiple listings to save you time. Once you apply to a place, your information is shared securely with the landlord, who can review your profile, ask you some questions, and send you a lease to sign in-app.

As part of your profile, you can select the “I do not live in Canada” option. This communicates to landlords instantly that you’re moving to Canada from abroad and will help them understand why your prior Canadian address is “missing,” helping them build trust with you faster.

As a student, this might be your first time renting a home. On your liv.rent profile, you can also select “I’m a first-time renter,” so that a landlord can understand why you don’t have previous landlord references from Canada.

Note: try to secure a Canadian cell phone number as soon as possible. Having an active local number in advance will help you open utility accounts, bank accounts, and more once you’re in Canada.

Apartments for rent in Canada

In Canada, there are a few varieties of rental housing available, from single rooms in shared houses and entire houses to condos and townhomes.

Often, students are on a budget and looking for affordable homes. While studios and one-bedrooms are still viable options, prices for these types of units tend to be higher. With rent prices consistently high across the country, it can be much more affordable to search for a room to rent, or find roommates in advance and apply to two- or three-bedroom units. Whichever type of unit you choose, liv.rent allows you to easily search for homes and filter them by price or rental type, making it easy to narrow down your search.

Although we have listings across Canada, we’ve pulled listings and links for three major Canadian cities where international students often go to study:

• Places for rent in Vancouver
• Places for rent in Toronto
• Places for rent in Montreal

Apartments for rent in Vancouver

• Studios for rent
• One-bedrooms for rent
• Two-bedrooms for rent

If you’re headed to Vancouver, B.C. for your studies, it’s more important than ever to understand the local rental market averages. That way, you can empower yourself to make decisions that work for you and your budget.

Historically, Vancouver is not an affordable place to call home and for a while now has held the top spot as the most expensive city to rent in Vancouver.

Still, it’s a breathtaking city and home to many exciting educational institutions like The University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, and Emily Carr University of Art + Design.

Learn more about Vancouver’s distinct neighbourhoods:

1. Richmond
2. Yaletown
3. Main Street
4. Dunbar
5. Chinatown
6. Commercial Drive
7. The West End
8. North Vancouver
9. Marine & Cambie Hub
10. New Westminster Brewery District
11. Arbutus

Apartments for rent in Toronto

• Studios for rent
• One-bedrooms for rent
• Two-bedrooms for rent

Living in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is a popular choice for many newcomers to Canada. There are lots of great schools in Toronto and beyond. And, if you’re living in Downtown Toronto, then it can feel like you’re a part of the country’s urban centre.

If you have questions about renting in Ontario, we have answers. Check out our series Applying For A Rental In Ontario:

• Part 1: What’s A Standard Rental Application?
• Part 2: What do you need when applying for a rental?
• Part 3: What Can A Landlord Ask For On A Rental Application In Ontario?
• Part 4: How Do I Fill Out A Rental Application?

Apartments for rent in Montreal

• Studios for rent
• One-bedrooms for rent
• Two-bedrooms for rent

Montreal is a relatively affordable Canadian city for renters, especially compared to the high prices in Vancouver and Toronto. The French and English-speaking city is home to many of the country’s finest schools like McGill and Concordia.

Resources for international students in Canada

• COVID-19: A Guide for International Students in Canada Arriving from Abroad
• Study in Canada as an international student
• COVID-19: Designated learning institutions reopening to international students
• Guidance for post-secondary institutions during the COVID-19 pandemic
• Flying to Canada requirements checklist
• Driving to Canada requirements checklist
• Province of British Columbia COVID-19 information
• Province of Ontario COVID-19 information
• Provice of Quebec COVID-19 information English| Français

FAQ: Coming to Canada as an international student

Rethink The Way You Rent

Not on liv.rent yet? Experience the ease of digital applications & contracts, verified tenants & landlords, virtual tours and more – all on one platform. Sign up for free or download the app.

Subscribe to receive the latest tenant & landlord tips and get notified about changes in the Canadian rental market.

>> Stay up-to-date on the average rent in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal: Rent Reports.

The post The Best Off-Campus Housing For International Students Coming To Canada Fall 2022 appeared first on liv.rent blog.

Good news: you’re in the right place!

Before we run away with all our features designed to make renter’s lives easier, know that you can use our platform based on your needs. So, whether you’re here to browse listings, pay for rent with bitcoin, or sign the lease on your next place, we can help!

Ready to join the future of renting? Use the table of contents to navigate and let’s get started:

Table of Contents

What is liv.rent?

liv.rent is more than just a marketplace to search for rentals. We’re a group of renters and landlords who knew there had to be a better way to rent.  

We found that the rental landscape was full of stress and scammers. It seemed like a never-ending battle to get the perfect home or find the perfect tenant. But we believe that finding a place to live should be safe and joyful.  

So, we created solutions for each step of the rental process to help everyone save time and energy. Now, we provide a better way to rent. One that leverages automation, AI, and integrated technology to make renting smooth and secure. 

From search and communication to contract signing and lease extension, every part of the rental process can be done online or in-app. Even though we’re based in Vancouver, B.C. — our community stretches from coast to coast in Canada.

We’re glad you’re here and we can’t wait for you to start a better rental journey with us. Find our app and start downloading it on your phone now while you read the rest of the guide.

1. Searching for rentals

Use liv.rent to search for your next home. You don’t even need to create an account to browse listings and if you want to set up your profile first, then you can “favourite” listings as you go.

How do you search on liv.rent?

There are three key ways to search for listings on liv.rent:

1. Search by city
2. Search by building or property management company
3. Browsing listings in “map” or “list” view

1. Search by city

Pick the city that you’re looking for a home in. Then, in addition to sorting by rental price with a sliding scale, you can adjust these filters to your search including:

2. Search by building or property management company

In the search bar, type in the building name to look for available rental units from that specific building. Likewise, if there’s a property management company or landlord you’re interested in, type in their name to see all the listings they manage.

Searching this way — by landlord or property manager pages, building pages, and building sub-pages — gives you hidden options most renters don’t know about. You can click on the map view and then click on the cluster to compare prices within the same building. Here’s a quick video that shows you how it’s done:

3. Browse by map or list

Watch now: liv.rent Basics – How To Search For Listings

2. Completing your liv.rent profile

Instead of filling out a new application every time you apply to a different listing, you can create a liv.rent profile (aka your renter’s resume) and use it to apply to multiple liv.rent listings.

For your security, only ID-verified landlords on liv.rent can view your renter’s resume — prevents scammers on other listing sites from accessing your personal information.

The following is a step-by-step breakdown of what you need to do to complete your liv.rent profile:

1. Filling out your renter’s resume
2. Giving only the necessary personal information
3. Increasing your chances to secure a place (for international or first time renters)
4. Knowing what a Trust Score is

1. Filling out your renter’s resume

Filling out your renter’s resume on liv.rent is simple and intuitive. Just follow the prompts, starting with basic info like your name, email address, and new password.

Pro tip: renters with complete profiles and verified IDs are 77% more likely to secure a rental and receive faster responses.

The entirety of the information in your profile will eventually be shared with a landlord after you apply to their listing, not before. Before that point, all your information is stored safely using a multilayered security approach.

Watch now: How To Fill Out Your Renter Profile

2. Giving only the necessary personal information

Your profile on liv.rent is used to apply for apartment listings. For this reason, we only request the minimum required information; this would be the same information that is necessary for a standard rental agreement.

Here’s a quick look at what information a landlord can legally ask you for:

For more details about our privacy and security, reference our FAQ section.

3. Increasing your chances to secure a place (for international or first time renters)

liv.rent is unique in that we can help people rent their first home in a new city before they even arrive. Select the “I do not live in Canada” option when completing your profile. Now, if a landlord sees your application, they have this information upfront.

It allows them to easily understand why you don’t have a Canadian address or lack previous references they can call.

There’s also the option to select “I’m a first-time renter.” This is great for international students and young people who are renting their first home. It also enables landlords to know why you lack previous landlord references and they’ll look for other ways to confirm your trustworthiness instead.

These two profile features, “I do not live in Canada” and “I’m a first-time renter”, help to streamline communication and offer you a better chance at obtaining a rental. Without them, landlords might browse an application, see that it’s “missing” previous references, and move on to the next application because they think yours is incomplete.

4. Knowing what a Trust Score is

An easy way to prove your trustworthiness as a renter to prospective landlords is by using our intelligent Trust Score rating system. Combining data from an Equifax credit report as well as our own AI algorithm, it’s a score out of 100 that helps position you as an ideal tenant.

Here’s a quick explanation by our Client Success Specialist Apoorva Ashok:

Watch now: How To Understand Your Trust Score

3. Connecting to landlords

Landlords and renters can connect and chat about listings, rental preferences, and tenancy details all on liv.rent in our chat feature. This chat becomes a timeline of communication between you and a prospective landlord.

Chat timeline

Your entire chat history is saved and accessible both online and in our app. Use the chat timeline to:

• Inquire about a listing
• Send in your application
• Receive a contract from a landlord
• Send your signed version of the digital lease back to your landlord
• Receive payment requests
• Review credit card or bitcoin payment receipts

Having all the correspondence and documentation in place is helpful for everyone to stay organized and protect themselves while renting. There are also translation features available to streamline communication further.

4. Submitting applications

Like we mentioned earlier, applying on liv.rent is easy because your renter’s resume (i.e. your profile) becomes an application with just a few clicks. Watch our Account Executive Jackie Wong walk you through the process:

Watch now: How To Search & Apply For Listings

One renter resume, multiple applications

This is the feature that puts liv.rent heads and shoulders above other listings sites: use your renter resume to apply to multiple listings. When you find a listing you love:

1. Click on “Apply Now.”
2. Pick your preferred move-in date.
3. Review your renter’s resume.
4. Accept the terms and conditions.
5. Click “Submit.”

Repeat this process again for any other listings you want to apply for. It’s easy, paperless, and gives you much more flexibility.

5. Signing & renewing leases

You can review, sign, send, and renew leases for rental agreements in B.C. and Ontario on the liv.rent platform.

• Ontario Standard Lease Explained
• BC Residential Tenancy Agreement Explained

Digital contracts

Because paper leases are onerous and wasteful, at liv.rent we do digital contracts instead. Easy to read, sign, and send either online or in-app — they save you time and get you the keys to your next place faster.

Custom addendums

While liv.rent provides the basic lease to your landlord, they may choose to add their own custom addendums. When reviewing the terms of your lease, pay extra attention to these portions.

Lease extensions

As a renter, pay attention to what the lease says will happen after the lease ends. In B.C. and Ontario, after a basic lease “expires,” it’s transitioned into a month-to-month rental agreement — unless a landlord has added something to the lease about vacating.

When the lease term is up, you and your landlord may decide to sign another lease. However, you are not required to do so.

6. Paying rent

Gone are the days of paper cheques and e-transfers. You can pay for rent on liv.rent with your credit card (Visa, Master Card, AMEX), Union Pay, and even by Bitcoin.

Note: if your landlord isn’t on liv.rent but you want to pay with your credit card, Union Pay, or Bitcoin — let us know and we can help onboard your landlord to help you pay for rent easier.

First, your landlord will send you a payment request through the liv.rent app. Then, you can easily pay via whichever method you choose. You will also receive payment reminders that you can turn on or off in your profile settings after your rental contract is active.

Watch now: How To Pay For Rent With Bitcoin

More help for renters

Thanks for checking in on our liv.rent guide for renters. We hope you now have a better understanding of how to take advantage of our platform to streamline your entire rental process from start to finish. Next, let’s keep the conversation going!

• Subscribe to liv.rent updates to be the first to learn about new rental market data, platform features, and more.
• Reach out for help finding listings with our team.
• Explore our resource blog for even more tips and tools for everyone navigating the rental landscape.

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So, how do you negotiate a rent reduction? And, are tenants allowed to negotiate rent? In this article, we’re going to answer all the pressing questions tenants have about this topic.

Plus, we will outline a few key steps you can take to prepare yourself for negotiations and walk away with more money in your bank account. Here is your liv.rent breakdown on rent negotiations:

Can you negotiate rent?

Yes, you can certainly negotiate the rent. Many first-time renters, or even more experienced tenants, might not be aware that the price advertised in a listing can actually become a jumping-off point for negotiations.

Of course, there’s no guarantee that you are renting from someone who’s open to accepting a lower offer. And, especially in an active and competitive rental market, it might not always be in your best interest to lowball a landlord.

There are some instances, however, where it’s a good idea for you to try to negotiate rent with a landlord to help you save money on what could be your biggest expense.

When should you negotiate rent?

There are three main instances where you’ll have the opportunity to negotiate rent:

1. Before you move in
2. When the lease is up
3. When you are paying rent month-to-month

We’ll break these down now, going over some potential strategies for each stage of the rental process.

1. Before you move in

Right before you move into an apartment is the perfect time to negotiate your rent. Beginning negotiations upfront is generally your best bet, particularly in cities like Vancouver and Toronto, where renters typically sign onto a one-year lease right away.

Negotiating rent before you move in can help you lock in a deal for an entire year, helping you to save money right away.

The best time to negotiate rent before you move in is after your application has been accepted. That’s because the landlord has already seen your application and determined that you’re the right fit out of all the people who applied to the listing.

If your application falls through at this stage, it would create more work for the landlord, who might be open to giving you a small discount on your rent to lock in a good tenant.

2. Negotiating rent when the lease is up

Once your fixed-term lease is about to expire and you change over to renting the unit month-to-month, it’s an excellent time to approach your landlord for negotiations — especially if you’ve built a good relationship with them.

It’s much easier for the landlord to agree to continue the lease with you at a small discount rather than having to go through the work of relisting their unit on the open market. Plus, they’d have to go through the tenant screening process again, which can take additional time and resources away from their business.

3. Negotiating month-to-month rent

If you’re renting a home on a month-to-month basis rather than on a fixed-term contract, you can still negotiate rent.

How to negotiate rent

Now that you know it’s possible to negotiate your rent regardless of the type of lease you’re on, here are a few practical things to keep in mind when you head to the bargaining table:

1. Negotiate rent price realistically

Just because it’s possible to negotiate rent doesn’t mean you will be able to talk your way into getting $500 off of your two-bedroom apartment downtown.

Being realistic when you prepare to negotiate your rent is an important first step because it will not only prepare you for talking to the landlord or property manager but it will also give you confidence because you know exactly what you’re asking for.

Asking for a discount of 5% to 10% is reasonable, so, if the asking rent is $1,600 per month, then you can:

1. Ask for a 10% discount, which would be $1,440
2. Ask for a 5% discount, which would be $1,520

If your landlord agrees to a 5% discount, especially if you’re a good tenant with great references signing a one-year lease, then that might not seem like that much of a discount.

However, negotiating just 5% off your rent before you sign the lease could end up saving you $960 over the course of one year.

Pro tip: before you start negotiating, it’s important to have your finger on the pulse of a rental market so you feel confident to advocate for yourself. Check liv.rent’s monthly rent reports in Vancouver, Montreal, and Toronto to arm yourself with the latest market rent data.

2. Understand the rental market

Get to know the market and what the current average asking rents are. Then, you can go even deeper.

See if a landlord or property manager that you’re interested to rent with is doing other showings elsewhere and could potentially get you a better deal.

If you really want an edge when it comes to negotiating rent, then you can even go to liv.rent and look up the building address of the unit you’re interested to rent. Look for similar units in the same building that might be available for less. Knowing what else is out there will be helpful in negotiating lower rent.

For example, if you check out the Amazing Brentwood building page, you can see all the units available at a glance, letting you compare costs instantly.

If you find lots of one-bedroom apartments available at $2,000 that are extremely similar to a $2,200 one-bedroom unit you like, you might be able to talk them down to offering a more competitive rental rate.

Pro tip: subscribe to liv.rent and get the latest rental reports sent to your email so keeping up with the real cost of rent in your city is simple

3. Negotiating rent and more

While having cheaper rent is an awesome goal, there are more ways to save than just rental payments. Try negotiating more than just rent, especially if your landlord is firm on the price.

You can try to negotiate other expenses as well, like utilities, parking, and storage. If you’re not using them, asking your landlord to remove charges for things like parking and storage are a totally reasonable way to save a bit of money on your monthly rent payments. And, it might be easier for landlords or property managers to agree to these terms rather than an actual rent reduction.

Finally, rather than a reduced rate, you could ask for a free month of rent if you agree to sign a lease. Especially after COVID-19, liv.rent saw lots of rental incentives just like this hit the market.

4. Have a strong rental application

Come to the negotiating table as a strong rental candidate. Go the extra mile to provide additional references, a great credit history, proof of income, and employment references.

On liv.rent, a renter’s profile is also their renter’s resume. Renters add all their relevant information here that they would share on any rental application. Then, when the right unit comes up, they can apply with just a few clicks to that or any other listing they want, easily.

By keeping all the necessary info and documentation in one place, liv.rent makes it easy for renters to find their next apartment. Plus, landlords like to see renters’ resumes because they clearly lay out all the relevant information for them in a standardized way that helps them make their decisions.

Plus, pet owners can make sure their references are able to speak to the pet being quiet and problem-free. Pet owners can even provide documentation of pet obedience training and up-to-date vaccinations to really stand out.

5. Clear communication

If you want negotiations to go smoothly, try giving up your budget upfront to avoid miscommunications. Keeping the conversation transparent and letting the landlord know exactly where you stand will lead to better conversations.

Of course, it’s best if you keep your budget about $100 lower than what you could reasonably go with, even if you have some wiggle room.

Pro tip: Want to keep negotiations even clearer? Use liv.rent’s chat timeline to keep track of all your back and forth with a landlord.

6. How to negotiate a rent reduction

What if you’re already living in an apartment that you’re happy with but you just want to save on rent? Can you negotiate rent after signing a lease? Turns out, you can.

We asked real estate expert Klaus Rode how to best bring up the subject with your landlord. “First, you want to think about your relationship with the landlord,” said Klaus.

“If you have a pretty good relationship with them…just be upfront, and go, ‘We love the space, we love our home, we don’t want to move, and we’ve been noticing everything else around us is getting cheaper and it’s getting harder to justify spending X dollars more per month for the same property.’ And just put in the offer, ‘I’m willing to stay and pay X per month less.'”

Klaus said that the trick, especially to renegotiate rent, is to be reasonable and to check in with the market rents and see what’s a realistic discount for you.

“So be reasonable, and be willing to compromise, but I think any owner would realize that if their apartment sits empty for two or three months they’re out $4000 or $5000 rent for the year…that’s hard to make up.”

Plus, you want to look at what the cost of moving could be and consider that as well. “So if you wanted a $200 discount, but you ended up with a $100 or $50 discount, that’s a win.”

Here are some negotiation conversation points that you’d want to bring up with your landlord:

• Mention if you haven’t been late for a rent payment
• Show them how offering you a discount would be appropriate given the current rental averages
• Point out how well you have taken care of the unit since you moved in and that it’s in good condition
• Mention that you have good communication, mutual respect, and a generally good relationship together

FAQ: How to negotiate rent

Can you negotiate rent?

Yes! Especially if the unit you’re applying for is listed above the average rent for your area, or one of the other circumstances outlined in this post applies to your situation. It never hurts to try, particularly if you’re on a tight budget – so use these tips and hope for the best.

How do I negotiate rent as a new tenant?

The majority of the tips outlined in this guide apply to new tenancies, and are best used before signing a lease agreement. Since lease agreements are usually set in place for a year term, any rent negotiations should be done prior to signing.

Do you typically negotiate rent before or after submitting an application?

It’s typically best to negotiate rent at the end of the application process, just prior to signing the lease. At this point, the landlord will have a good sense of who you are and if you’ve been a reliable tenant in the past, you’ll have a higher chance of securing a discounted rent price.

Can you negotiate rent with a property management company?

Yes, negotiating rent with a property management company takes place in the same way as with an individual landlord. The company may have their own policies in place for how much they can discount rent, or they may have discussed this with the property’s owner previously, but there’s still a chance you can secure a discount this way.

How do I negotiate a rent decrease?

While it’s rare to decrease your rent during the course of a tenancy since the rent is set in place in the lease agreement, it could still be possible if you’re on very good terms with your landlord and have a good reason for requiring the discount. This would likely require signing a new lease though, which landlords might not be willing to do.

How do I negotiate rent before signing a lease?

As we mentioned above, negotiating rent before signing a lease is the norm and in fact, the best time to do it. Simply follow the tips on this list if you’re trying to negotiate a lower rent price.

Is negotiating rent normal?

Negotiating rent is fairly common practice, although in more competitive rental markets, tenants might tend to shy away from negotiations to secure a place. If you’re too aggressive with your negotiations or ask for too much of a discount, landlords are within their rights to choose a tenant who’s willing to pay the full price – so be cautious of when and how you attempt to negotiate rent.

Rethink The Way You Rent

Not on liv.rent yet? Experience the ease of digital applications & contracts, verified tenants & landlords, virtual tours and more – all on one platform. Sign up for free or download the app.

Subscribe to receive the latest tenant & landlord tips and get notified about changes in the Canadian rental market.

>> Stay up-to-date on the average rent in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal: Rent Reports.

The post How to negotiate rent: 6 simple steps that save tenants money appeared first on liv.rent blog.

Paying rent is one of the most important monthly responsibilities for tenants. While traditional methods like cash and cheques are still used, many renters now prefer faster, more flexible digital options. 

From e-Transfers to credit cards, understanding how each payment method works can help you choose the option that best fits your financial situation and lifestyle.  

Common ways to pay rent in Canada

There are several common ways tenants can pay rent, depending on what their landlord accepts: 

1. Interac e-Transfer: One of the most popular methods in Canada. It’s fast, convenient, and provides a digital record of payment.  

2. Cash: Some landlords accept cash, but it’s important to always request a receipt for your records.  

3. Cheque: A traditional option still used by some landlords for recurring rent payments.  

4. Pre-authorized debit (PAD): Allows landlords to automatically withdraw rent from your bank account on a scheduled date each month.  

5. Credit card (via third-party platforms): Rent can be paid using a credit card through platforms that process payments on your behalf.  

Note: Rental payment rules can vary by province. Always confirm accepted payment methods and terms with your landlord before making payments.

How to pay rent with a credit card

Paying rent with a credit card is becoming an increasingly popular option, especially for renters looking to earn rewards or gain more flexibility in managing their finances. 

While most landlords don’t accept credit cards directly. Instead, third-party platforms (such as Chexy and similar services) allow tenants to charge rent to their credit card while the platform transfers funds to the landlord.  

Benefits of paying rent with your credit card: 

• Earn cashback or reward points on monthly rent payments  

• Improve cash flow by leveraging your credit card billing cycle  

• Consolidate expenses into one payment method  

Some credit cards offer cashback on recurring payments, which can help offset processing fees charged by payment platforms. Fees may apply depending on the platform used. 

Did you know?
The Scotiabank Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite* Card offers up to 4% cashback on eligible recurring payments, which can help offset processing fees when paying rent through third-party platforms. While rent may not always be the primary use, it can be included alongside other monthly expenses, making it a flexible option for managing payments.

How to pay rent using liv.rent 

liv.rent allows tenants to securely pay rent directly through the platform using supported digital payment methods. 

Accepted payment methods: 

• Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) via Stripe payment gateway 

• UnionPay  

Key features: 

• Track your payment history in one place 

• Simplify payment requests and confirmations 

• Complete transactions securely online  

How to pay rent by credit card on liv.rent

1) Receive a payment request 
Your landlord must first send a payment request through the liv.rent chat to initiate the rent payment process.  

2) Review the request 
You’ll see the payment request with the amount due, due date, and a Payment Method dropdown.  

3) Select your payment method 
Choose your preferred payment method from the dropdown and click Continue.  

4) Enter card details 
Input your credit card information and billing address, then select Continue.  

5) Review payment details 
A summary will appear, including your card details and any applicable processing fee. 
You can click the ⓘ Info icon to view a breakdown of the fee.  

6) Confirm and pay 
If everything looks correct, agree to the Terms & Conditions and click Pay Now to complete the transaction. 

7) Payment confirmation 
A confirmation window will appear once the payment is successful. You can download or email a receipt for your records.  

8) View payment in chat 
The payment status will appear as Payment Sent in your chat conversation with the landlord.  

9) Access payment details 
To view the full summary, click View details under the Payment Sent message. 

When does paying rent by credit card make sense?

Paying rent with a credit card can be a smart option in certain situations: 

1. You want to earn rewards such as cashback or travel points  

2. You pay off your credit card balance in full each month  

3. You need short-term flexibility in managing your cash flow  

However, it’s important to consider processing fees and potential interest charges if balances are not paid in full. 

Choosing the right way to pay rent comes down to balancing convenience, security, and your financial goals. From simple options like e-Transfer to more flexible methods like credit cards, each approach offers different benefits depending on your needs. No matter which method you choose, it’s important to confirm payment details with your landlord and use trusted, secure platforms to ensure your transactions are safe and trackable. With the right approach, paying rent can be both simple and stress-free.

For additional information on Paying Rent in BC, please refer to the BC Government’s “Paying Rent” page.

Was this helpful? Check out some of our latest posts:

Rent Reports: Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal
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The post How to Pay Rent: Methods, Options, and Credit Card Tips appeared first on liv.rent blog.

So how does rent work in Canada? In this post, we’ll be providing a provincial comparison of British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec in terms of the following key rental topics: Rental Deposits, Credit Score Requirements, Finding Rentals, Rental Documents, Rent Increase, Payment Rules, and Lease Renewals.

Note: Ontario’s Landlord and Tenant Board has announced a maximum allowable rent increase of 2.5% for 2023. B.C. is expected to announce the province’s maximum rent increase in September – this graphic will be updated to include that information then.

Before pursuing a rental property, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the pertinent rules and conditions governing rentals. This will protect you from unscrupulous landlords who may be tempted to take advantage of a naïve or ill-informed tenant or a newcomer to Canada who might not be familiar with the country’s rental practices. 

Before you submit a tenancy application anywhere in Canada, be sure to arm yourself with the knowledge you need to navigate the rental process. Gaining a basic understanding of residential tenancy laws and guidelines will position you for success in your rental journey and ensure you’re able to negotiate your lease terms effectively.

How do I find a place to rent in Canada?

Get Up To $4,100 Cash Back** With A New BMO Mortgage. Plus, Lock In Your Rate For 130 Days!* Offer Ends November 4, 2024.

What credit score do you need to rent in Canada?

Regardless of province, there is a general range of credit scores that are considered acceptable by landlords in Canada. This may vary slightly in cities with more competitive rental markets, such as Vancouver and Toronto. Generally, though, a credit score over 670 is considered a good indication of an acceptable financial history. If you’re new to Canada or don’t yet have a credit history, or if your credit score is less than this — don’t panic.

Keep in mind that credit scores aren’t the only indicator landlords use to screen tenants, and it’s worthwhile explaining why you either don’t have a credit score, or why it may be below this range.

Here’s a quick breakdown of how credit scores are generally viewed in Canada:

• Under 580 — Poor
• 580 to 669 — Fair
• 670 to 739 — Good
• 740 to 799 — Very Good
• 800+ — Excellent

What documents do I need to rent an apartment?

No matter where you choose to rent in Canada, landlords will ask you for similar information and documents. These mainly comprise evidence demonstrating that you are who you say you are, you have a good rental history, and will be able to consistently pay rent on time. All of this will usually be included in or with your rental application so the landlord can determine whether you’re a good fit. The other, most important document that renters need to rent is their Lease Agreement. The specific format of this varies by province, but it’s the legally-binding document that makes your tenancy official.

Here are some of the other documents Canadian renters may be asked to submit for their tenancy:

• Basic information — Contact info, employment, current address, etc.
• Income verification/Credit check — Bank statements, pay-stubs, or a completed credit check
• References — Personal, employment, or past landlords

How do rental deposits work in Canada?

How much is the rent increase for 2022

How is rent paid in Canada?

How do lease renewals work in Canada?

Rental Resources

As you can see from the information here, rental rules and regulations vary significantly by province. To help renters navigate their rental process safely and easily, liv.rent offers a variety of Renter Resources that break down the rental journey from start to finish.

Rethink The Way You Rent

Not on liv.rent yet? Experience the ease of digital applications & contracts, verified tenants & landlords, virtual tours and more – all on one platform. Sign up for free or download the app.

Subscribe to receive the latest tenant & landlord tips and get notified about changes in the Canadian rental market.

>> Stay up-to-date on the average rent in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal: Rent Reports.

The post How Does Rent Work in Canada? A Provincial Comparison appeared first on liv.rent blog.