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Start by comparing the same bedroom count, location and included utilities across several listings before contacting anyone. The next page gives CMHC’s step-by-step checklist for visits, lease terms, deposits, payments and credit checks.
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Where to look for rental listings
Use more than one route. REALTOR.ca is a real-estate listings website; you can also check local classified listings, property-management and local real-estate offices, community notice boards, and the housing office at a college or university. A wider search can help you compare neighbourhoods and unit types without assuming that any particular apartment is available.
On this page
- Listing sites Search by city, bedroom count and move-in date; save the full listing details.
- Local sources Check classified ads, community boards and property managers in the neighbourhoods you are considering.
- Campus housing If you are studying, ask the campus housing office about rental-listing resources and local guidance.
- In-person checks When practical, look for posted rental notices and ask whether a viewing can be arranged.
Use CMHC rent figures as a benchmark
CMHC’s 2025 Rental Market Report gives a useful benchmark for purpose-built rental apartments, but it is not a promise of the rent you will be offered. For a simple city comparison, the report lists average two-bedroom rent at $2,363 in Vancouver, $1,914 in Calgary and $1,603 in Edmonton. These are averages, so check the report’s city data and compare the same unit size before treating a number as your own budget.
- Vancouver Average two-bedroom purpose-built rent: $2,363 (2025 CMHC report).
- Calgary Average two-bedroom purpose-built rent: $1,914 (2025 CMHC report).
- Edmonton Average two-bedroom purpose-built rent: $1,603 (2025 CMHC report).
For one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom comparisons, use the CMHC 2025 Rental Market Survey data tables for the city you are considering. CMHC says those tables include average rents and are available for Canada, provinces and major centres. This helps you avoid comparing a one-bedroom in one city with a three-bedroom in another.
Questions to ask before you apply
Before a viewing, ask what is included in the rent, the exact move-in date, how rent is paid, whether parking or laundry costs extra, and what documents the landlord may request. Keep copies of the listing and your notes. A calm, consistent record makes it easier to compare options and spot details that affect the total monthly cost.
Frequently asked questions
Is an average rent the same as an advertised rent?
No. An average is a market measure, while an advertised unit can differ by location, condition, included services and timing. Use it as a comparison point, then confirm the terms of the specific listing.
Should I search only one listing website?
No. Search several sources, including local channels, so you can compare the same kind of apartment across neighbourhoods and avoid relying on one set of listings.
What should I compare besides bedroom count?
Compare included utilities, parking, laundry, accessibility, transit, lease length, deposit terms and the date the unit can be occupied.
