Budget

Many people overlook budget calculating when they start looking for apartments. It is important to calculate budgets by including all the expenses. Remember, that your annual income should be three times more than your annual rent. If it doesn't, it will become difficult for you to pay the rent. Rent is just the base, you will also have to pay for many other utilities. Therefore, the calculation of these additional costs will help you in finding the best apartment for you.

Transportation
Commuting is another key factor to consider when you rent an apartment in Montreal. If you have to walk 20 minutes every day to catch that metro or bus, things will get difficult for you. If you own a car or bike, look for petrol stations and parking options nearby.

Apartment Size

Whether you are looking for an apartment for rent or sale in Montreal, the size of your apartment matters the most. The sizes used in Montreal are difficult to figure out especially when you are a first-time apartment renter. To eliminate any confusion, here is our breakdown.

1. 1 ½: One room studio apartment. A single room with a kitchenette and bathroom.
2. 2 ½: A bedroom with a kitchenette, living room and bathroom. It is bigger than 1 ½.
3. 3 1/2: Has a bedroom, bigger living room and kitchen.
4. +4 1/2: This is the same as the one mentioned above. It has an additional bedroom.
5. 5 1/2: This is huge! It has three bedrooms, a living room, bathrooms and a kitchenette.

Neighbourhood

The neighbourhood is important irrespective of whether you are looking for rented apartments or apartments for sale in Montreal. Your lease will be at least a year long. Your neighbourhood will play an important role. Make sure you do some research about the surroundings to make an informed decision.

Parking

When you rent an apartment in Montreal, you must find out about the parking arrangements. Your frustration can hit the roof if you have to spend loads of time every day to find a parking space!
Buildings usually have indoor parking to accommodate bikes and cars. However, they charge extra that ranges between $100-350. You can look for duplexes and triplexes which will have an option to park around the buildings for free.

Pet Friendly

If you have a furry friend, then look for an apartment that allows pets. Many buildings do not allow pets . Whereas, some allow it if you follow their rules. Know the situation beforehand so that it does not become a cause of concern after you have moved in.

Negotiating Rent

Before you apply for an apartment, negotiate rent with the property handler or landlord. Quote a reasonable price or you might face rejection. Ask about what is included in the rent so that you can make an informed decision.

Documents and Application

If you are trying for an apartment you have loved, make sure you fill in the application correctly. Make sure you also keep your documents handy. This includes a credit score, photo ID, letter of employment and last three salary stubs. You should also include the numbers of your past landlords for a reference check. If you are from another country, submit your visa and passport.
An application usually takes three days to get processed. In that case, it is better to have patience and wait for the landlord to make a decision!

Act Ethically

Let your current landlord know that you are planning to move at least 3/6 months before your lease ends. If you do not inform your landlord and he sends you the renewed lease, you'll be in a fix! This may be problematic for your future reference checks and you might not end up finding an apartment for rent in Montreal.

Lease Signing

We've got no better advice for you other than READ your lease. You will be staying in the same building for the next 12 months which is why you should have everything mentioned in the lease to avoid future conflicts. Deposits are illegal in places like Quebec. So, if your landlord is asking for one, avoid renting that property.

Don't Pay a Finder's Fee

Some neighbourhoods have many students living in them. In areas like these, previous tenants ask for a finders fee. This fee is charged to hold the apartment for you before they leave it. This type of fee is illegal and you should stay away from it.


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