What to Look for When Renting an Apartment in Montréal

The vibrant city of Montréal has so much to offer, but like any popular place, it’s helpful to know what to look for before you start searching for a rental. There are plenty of unique spaces and neighbourhoods that might interest you, so it’s important that you make a list of “must-haves” for your apartment or desired area to help nail down your search. Many factors play into deciding where you want to live, so if you’re looking for apartments for rent in Montréal, Canada here are our recommendations to help you find a place that suits your needs and budget.

The Price

The most important factor in your search is the price. Before you start looking, determine what you can comfortably afford to pay each month. Remember to consider all of your expenses during this process and whether there are certain items you could cut back on to afford a better place. If you are on a tighter budget, you might want to explore the possibility of living with a roommate. No matter what your budget is, do some research to understand what the average market price is for rentals in certain neighbourhoods in Montréal that appeal to you. 

The Condition and Quality

Although many viewing processes are conducted online these days due to COVID-19 restrictions, whenever possible, schedule an in-person viewing of the apartment. Even during virtual tours, it can be challenging to get a genuine feel for a place and a thorough scope of its condition. If you notice certain flaws during the tour, remember to keep in mind that minor problems can be potentially fixed and dealt with if the price, location and general quality of the apartment are suitable. However, if problems appear deeper and highlight potential safety hazards, such as rodents, bugs, mould, broken windows, or leaky plumbing, keep looking.

The Neighbourhood

The neighbourhood matters almost as much as the apartment, which is why we recommend seeking out the areas where you want to live. Though it won’t always be possible to find a suitable apartment in your desired location, narrowing down your preferences will make it easier to weigh the pros and cons and determine the best option for you. While neighbourhood hunting, consider factors like walk score, noise levels, neighbours, crime and safety, access to transportation, and any other details that are relevant to you.

Proximity to Attractions You’ll Love

Montreal is a city with so much to see and do. From the Old Port to the Botanical Gardens, to Mount Royal it’s easy to see why so many people flock to this beautiful and historic place. Perhaps you are moving for work or to be closer to family, and want to be close to certain areas that you can go to regularly. Ensure you examine transit lines and travel time to get to the places you want to visit, and take these into account on your search. Certain areas can end up feeling much more like home when you have places to frequent with your family and friends. You may also want to head out and discover the area on your own for the perfect Instagram shot or to embrace your new city.

The Landlord or Property Maintenance 

Ending up with an unpleasant landlord or property management company that doesn’t do a good job at maintaining the property can turn your dream apartment into a nightmare. Property-managed rentals are typically the best option since they are obliged to maintain a certain level of standards, often performing repairs and renovations to keep their rentals updated and appealing to potential renters. This can make it easier for residents to take action if they fail to maintain a clean and safe living environment. You can also look at reviews online to see what previous or current residents have to say about the quality of service and whether it’s worth renting. 

With iconic landmarks and cozy neighbourhoods, it’s easy to see why moving to this French city can be an exciting opportunity. If you’re looking for suites for rent in Montréal, Canada search our listings at CLV Group. We can help you find spacious, updated apartments located throughout the city at affordable rates.