Finding Affordable Housing
Housing is expensive in Canada, but there are strategies:
Where to Look
- Facebook Marketplace
- Kijiji
- Craigslist
- PadMapper
- Nigerian community groups
What to Know
- First and last month's rent required
- No credit history? Offer more months upfront
- Roommates can reduce costs significantly
Red Flags
- Landlord asks for money before viewing
- Deal seems too good to be true
- No written lease agreement
- Landlord won't provide references
Tenant Rights
You have rights in Canada! Know them:
- Landlord can't enter without notice
- Can't be evicted without proper process
- Rent increases are regulated
Alternatives
- Basement apartments
- Shared housing
- Suburbs (cheaper than downtown)
- Student housing (if studying)
Start with temporary housing, then find something permanent.
