Renting a Home in Saskatoon
Introduction
Finding a long-term rental is a major milestone that will determine your access to different parts of Saskatoon and affect the opportunities and restrictions you will face in your daily life.
Best Time to Start Your Search
It's generally best to start looking for long-term housing even before your arrival in Saskatoon, or as soon as possible after landing.
Visiting properties in person and exploring the neighbourhood can help you make a better, more informed decision.
Documents Required for Renting
To officially rent a property in Saskatoon, you typically need the following documents:
- Valid identification (such as a passport or Canadian driver's licence)
- Proof of income or employment (like an employment confirmation letter or recent bank statements)
- References from previous landlords or employers (if available)
- Sometimes, a credit check is required; however, new immigrants usually do not have a Canadian credit history. In these cases, other forms of assurance—such as bank statements or a co-signer/guarantor—may be accepted.
- In some situations, offering to pay several months' rent in advance can help convince a landlord to rent to you.
Rental agreements in Canada usually require:
- A security deposit (typically equal to one month's rent)
- First month's rent paid in advance
The deposit is refundable at the end of your tenancy, provided you leave the property undamaged and clean.
Important: Rentals in Canada are typically either month-to-month or lease-based. Most long-term rentals are leases, which do not allow early termination without penalties. Always review the terms carefully before signing any agreement.
Where to Search for Rentals
You can search for suitable rental properties through:
- Trusted rental websites:
- Property management companies that manage and lease a large number of apartments and houses:
- Colliers Rentals
- Real Property Management
- Real Life
- Mainstreet
- Boardwalk
Property management companies are generally stricter with their requirements compared to individual landlords.
The association's Telegram group in Saskatoon can also be a good resource for finding rental opportunities.
Tip: Always visit the property in person before making a final decision and carefully review all lease terms.
Important Points When Renting
- Written Contract: Always obtain a written rental agreement.
- Security Deposit: Typically, one month's rent is required as a deposit.
- Utilities & Parking: Check whether utilities (water, electricity, gas, internet) and parking are included
- Pet Policy: If you have pets, confirm whether the property allows them.
- Payments: Always use cheques or e-transfers for rent payments.
If you have questions about your rental agreement, contact us for help evaluating your contract and advice on your options.
Tips for Choosing a Neighbourhood
- Areas east of the Saskatchewan River generally offer better access to schools, shopping centres, and public amenities.
- Popular neighbourhoods for newcomers include Nutana, Greystone Heights, Lakeview, Stonebridge, Rosewood, and Wildwood.
- If you are employed or have school-aged children, prioritize proximity to your workplace or school when choosing a location.
Conclusion
Thorough searching, in-person visits, and realistic expectations will help you find a suitable place to start your new life in Saskatoon. Patience and careful attention to detail at this stage will greatly improve your quality of life in the months and years ahead.