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Types of Apartments

There are many terms used to describe the various types and sizes of apartments available for rent in Toronto. While some are universal and self-explanatory, others are newly coined and uniquely regional. The following is a glossary of terms currently used in the Toronto marketplace that should help take some of the mystery out of your apartment search.

Bachelor Apartment
Bachelor apartments, also known as a Studio apartment, is basically a one-room apartment with separate bath and sometimes (but not typically) a separate kitchen.The single room serves as a bedroom, dining room and living room, and is usually connected to an open kitchen. These can range from very small (big enough for a sofabed and a desk) to very large (can accommodate a king-size bed and have a separate sitting area and dining area). The larger bachelors tend to be in older, low-rise apartments. Bachelors are typically the most affordable, independent apartment unit with occupancy often limited to one person.This type of apartment is great for students and single people.

One Bedroom Apartment
Very simply, a one bedroom apartment consists of a separate bedroom equipped with a built in closet, living room, kitchen and bathroom. Some one bedroom apartments have full separate kitchens; some do not. These apartments vary dramatically in size. Some bedrooms can fit only a twin-size bed or cot; others can accommodate a king-size bed and offer a sitting area. Typically, one bedroom apartments are meant for a single person or a couple.

Junior One Bedroom Apartment
Junior one bedroom ("Jr. 1") apartments vary in both size and structure. In Toronto, a junior one bedroom usually implies a small one bedroom apartment with the actual bedroom being quite small, fitting at best a twin-size bed and nothing else. A Jr. 1 bedroom could also be an extra-large studio, large enough to section off a separate sleeping area or bedroom. Jr. 1 bedrooms are great for students. Most renters of this type of apartment are single as two people living in a Jr. 1 bedroom can feel cramped. The key benefit is that Jr. 1 bedrooms are cheaper than the one bedroom option, and still offer that separate bedroom, making the entire apartment feel larger.

One + Den Apartment
One + Den apartments are actually not apartments - they're in condominium buildings. Also referred to as "one bedroom plus solarium", these units have an extra room which can be used as an office, living area or potentially a bedroom. The set up and the placement of the Den/Solarium varies from unit to unit which will be the key factor as to whether it can be used as an extra bedroom. If the term "solarium" is used, there is more promise of using this room as an extra bedroom as these rooms always have windows and are typically separate from the other bedroom.

Two and Three Bedroom Apartments
Two and Three bedroom apartments are the same as one a bedroom apartments but with more separate rooms. Bedroom sizes can vary widely, from a baby's room or small office to a sprawling master bedroom suite. Three bedroom apartments are relatively rare in Toronto. Typically the price difference between a one bedroom and a two bedroom is not that large which will make it enticing to find a roommate to not only split the cost of rent, but all utilities and amenities.

Loft
Lofts are typically a big, open space that usually results from a commercial building having been converted into residential units. Lofts generally have very high ceilings, extra-large windows and often exposed brick, plumbing pipes and columns. Some remain open spaces with few internal walls; others have been constructed into one, two, or more bedrooms. Real lofts are mostly found in previously commercial neighborhoods. More recently, a number of new condominium/lofts have been built. These "Loftaminiums" have many similar characteristics as traditional lofts, however they haven't been converted from commercial buildings, so the exposed brick and plumbing (for example) were simply constructed to mimic the look of a converted loft.

Penthouse
A penthouse is an apartment on the top floor of an apartment building or condominium usually with extra balconies or a roof top deck. Usually considered to be quite luxurious and desirable places to live.

Basement Apartment
Basement apartments are located in the lowest story of a house or building partially below ground level. Basement apartments range in size, but many are typically the equivalent to either a bachelor or one bedroom apartment. While theoretically windows and proper ceiling height are enforced by city codes, that certainly isn't always the case and as such, it's imperative to view the apartment prior to signing a lease. As well, as these units are partially below ground level, they are typically the cheapest rental units on the market.

Live/Work
Usually refers to a commercial building where some residential tenancy is accepted. A live/work space has a kitchen and full bathroom with shower. 



April 11th, 2008 at 10:26:07 am by the myhood.ca team

Five Amenities That Matter

When you’re hunting for that perfect apartment, there are certain features, including cheap rent, a great view, lots of space, or a beautiful bathroom that push you to sign a lease quickly. While these are no doubt key elements of any great apartment, there are also some smaller factors that you may not have thought about. Here are 5 key amenities that if they’re good you’ll never think about, but if they’re bad – can be very big problems.

1. Windows
In addition to being your source of natural light and hopefully a great view, windows are also key to your comfort in your apartment. First, ensure that the windows actually open. Many times in older apartments or lofts, the windows may be shut permanently. Not only will you get no or little fresh air, but it would also mean the end of your plans to put in an air conditioning unit. You’ll also need to check to see if the windows actually seal out the outside air when the windows are closed. Typically, this is only an issue in older apartments and it’s not just an issue of staying warm, but if you’re responsible for paying for utilities, a leaking window can have a detrimental effect on your heating bill.

2. Electrical Outlets
You’ll notice the issue of a lack of electrical outlets quite a bit if you start looking for it – especially in houses that were converted into apartments. Often times, if larger rooms have been converted into two or more smaller ones, only one of rooms will have an electrical outlet which can be quite frustrating, especially once you start blowing fuses. While often this isn’t a reason to not rent a place, you’ll definitely need to be cognizant of which electrical appliances you’re using at the same time.

3. The Size and Shape of the Doorways and Hallways
Assuming you already own a good portion of your furniture, a key concern should be whether you can actually fit all of it into your new apartment. Many times, large items, like a box spring or a couch simply won’t fit up the small stairwell to your 3rd floor apartment or through the doorway once you’ve got it that point. Moving is stressful as it is, but a situation where you can't get your beloved furniture into your place will make you want to pull your hair out. If you know that your new place is going to have these issues, either figure out alternative ways of getting your furniture into your place (i.e. through the window) or be ready to get rid of it if it doesn’t fit and sell it on craigslist.

4. The Condition of the Lobby and Public Stairways
This is one of the best predictors of the state of an apartment building and how responsible the landlord is with repairs. There are countless apartment reviews on myhood.ca that talk about bad situations in the stairwells – drugs, urine, etc. While you’ll naturally get a chance to check out the lobby, we highly recommend that you check out the stairwell – and more than just from one floor to another. If you see or smell bad stuff – that’s a good indication of what you might be getting yourself into.

5. Neighbours
Your neighbours – the people above, below, across and to the sides of your apartment have the potential to make your living experience a horrible one. It could be a “stomper” above you, a fighting couple beside you, loud music below you – all are factors that are going to drive you crazy, and usually at the worst times, like when you want to fall asleep. While the best way to avoid a bad situation is to speak to neighbours, this is easier said than done – especially if the landlord is with you. As such, we recommend checking out myhood.ca to see if there’s an apartment review to find out the inside stuff of that apartment building.
February 26th, 2008 at 5:36:52 pm by Jeff Hersh

Tips For Finding and Leasing a Pet-Friendly Rental

Landlords are becoming more accepting of tenants who keep pets. Whether it's feathers, fur or fins, the mere mention of a pet can make life difficult when it comes to finding a place to rent. More than 50% of Canadian households own a pet of some kind and yet, many landlords hesitate to advertise their unit “apartment for rent - pets allowed”.

Some landlords don't allow pets because they have allergies and could have problems if they eventually move into the home themselves. More often though, the reluctance is due to fears an animal might damage the property or cause conflict with neighbors. The type of damage landlords fear includes scratched doors, ruined carpets and damage to outdoor areas and gardens.

However, a responsible pet owner is likely to be a responsible tenant. What's more, because finding a pet-friendly rental can be difficult, these tenants generally try to keep their landlord happy. Whichever way, tenants should be honest on their applications or the result is likely going to be a negative one.

There are measures pet owners can take to help find themselves an apartment for rent with pets allowed:

1) Creature Comfort: Make sure the properties you are looking at suit your pet, with adequate fencing and outdoor space to keep them satisfied. Keeping a large dog in a small, second-floor apartment is a sure recipe for disaster, for instance. Think carefully about the areas you're looking at.

2) References: A landlord might be more accommodating if you present a resume for your pet, such as references from previous landlords and veterinarian records. This can help demonstrate that you look after your pet and that it's not going to have a negative impact on the rental unit. A picture of your pet might help, as well, showing the landlord exactly what to expect.

2) Rules and Agreements: Some landlords have rules about pets, however for those who don’t, an arrangement can be made with the landlord. A written contract (drawn up casually) in which the tenant agrees to be responsible for any damage and even fumigate if necessary, as well as outlining how the pet will be kept (indoors or out), will often make a landlord feel more secure about welcoming pets.

While it can be tough to find a pet-friendly rental, if you are straight forward with your landlord and follow the tips above, the process of finding a place that allows pets should be easier.
December 23rd, 2007 at 5:30:35 pm by the myhood.ca team

Tips for submitting an application for an Apartment or Condo

So, you’ve inspected the place – it meets all your criteria, it fits your budget – you want it! The only thing left is submitting an application – and this could be a competitive process. The keys to winning in this last phase are speed, presentation and the truth.

Speed: It’s best to fill out the application immediately or get it back to the landlord within a day. Also, be ready to write a cheque for a “rent deposit”. This deposit cannot be more than the rent for one rental period or one month’s rent, whichever is less. As well, the deposit can only be used as rent for the last period of the tenancy.

Presentation: In addition to the application itself, while rightfully or not, the landlord will judge you by their impression of you in person. They’ll be trying to answer the question “does this look like a person who I can trust to pay their rent every month and keep the unit in order”. Accordingly, it doesn’t hurt to dress nicely and be polite and on your best behaviour.

Truth: Simple – tell the truth in your application. If you lie – they’ll catch you. Landords do check references as well, so don’t make them up.

As for the application, you will commonly need to provide the following details on this form:
  • Name
  • Current address and phone number
  • Occupation
  • Employer
  • Monthly income; and
  • Two or more references.

You could also be asked to provide information regarding personal finances, such as any loans you may have and the value of your savings. Watch out for irrelevant questions such as your race, sex, marital status or religious affiliation – this is not legal.

The key areas that might put landlords off are if you have spent a short time in your current apartment and/or a short time in your current job. If these affect you, make sure your references address these shortcomings. For young would-be tenants who may be leaving home for the first time and have just started their first job, character references from respected types (university professors, executives from work experience placements, etc.) will be helpful along with an offer to have your parents co-sign the lease.

The other big no-no is pets. To try to get round this, some devoted owners get references for their pets from current neighbours. A letter (including the neighbour's phone number) saying "Muffin is a good little dog, which doesn't bark, attack children or poo in the hallway" is worth having.

Note that it may take several weeks for your application to be processed. While waiting, make sure you contact the landlord at least once a week. This expression of eagerness could sway the decision in your favour.
November 14th, 2007 at 10:25:37 am by the myhood.ca team

The Inspection Checklist

As mentioned in a previous post regarding pre-rental apartment inspections, checking over a potential rental won't take long and could save you from renting and apartment that looks good on paper or the screen, but is terrible in reality. As such, the team at myhood.ca found a great inspection checklist produced by U of T’s Student Housing Service that we’d like to share with you. Very simply, these are questions you should have answers to by the end of the inspection and you should be comfortable with the answers prior to signing the lease.

  • Do you feel comfortable with the building layout and the neighbourhood?
  • Are there adequate locks to provide security?
  • Are there smoke detectors? Do they work?
  • Are there accessible and barrier-free fire escape routes?
  • Is the accommodation adequately heated/properly ventilated/clean/well-lit/spacious?
  • Will you have direct control over your heating?
  • Are there screens for summer?
  • Will cleaning/painting of the unit be arranged before you move in?
  • To what extent may you paint or decorate your accommodation?
  • Is the plumbing and water pressure adequate and in good working order?
  • What appliances are provided? Are they in good working order?
  • Are laundry facilities available/nearby?
  • Will moving in be difficult due to steep or narrow stairs and passageways?
  • Is there adequate storage space for your belongings? Can these be locked? Who else might have access?
  • Is car or bicycle parking available?
  • Are you expected to pay extra for utilities, cable TV, internet or parking? If so, how much?
  • Is it as quiet as you require?
  • If you’ll be sharing: Are there adequate bathroom/cooking facilities for everyone to use during peak times? Do you have full kitchen/bathroom privileges?
November 5th, 2007 at 5:18:24 pm by the myhood.ca team

Apartment rental Inspections - the Do's and Don'ts

Unless under special circumstance, do not rent a place unless you (or a close family or friend) have personally inspected it. Checking over a property won't take long and could save you from renting an apartment that looks good on paper or the screen, but is terrible in reality. Even if you’ve seen a picture online, it is still highly recommended that you check it out yourself.

As you are likely to see several properties, it is a good idea to record your impressions of each. This will help you to compare places and also assist your recollection of property features. As well, by inspecting a couple of units, you really get a feel for what you’re looking for, your “needs” and your “nice to haves”. When inspecting, don’t just check out the unit, but also check out the elevators, hallways, laundry facilities and main foyer to ensure that you’re happy with the condition. Also, make sure your existing furniture can fit in your place, nevermind through the front door.

If you’re not able to inspect the place yourself or get somebody to do it, then it is recommended to at least ensure that the landlord is trustworthy (which isn’t easy). Either check myhood.ca to see if there are any current reviews of your place or if not, see if the landlord has a laptop and a webcam so they can take you on a “virtual tour” of the place.

The team at myhood.ca has also put together an inspection checklist – check it out
November 5th, 2007 at 4:47:33 pm by the myhood.ca team

Condos: The New Way to Rent

We all know that condos are one of the hottest commodities on the real estate market today. But their popularity isn't just for potential buyers; condos are hot for renters, too. Renting a condominium means that renters have access to the same A+ locations that many condos boast. Access to transit and other area amenities are not just reserved for those who purchase and own. There is an ever-increasing supply of "top notch" condo locations to rent within the city, and most exist in newer buildings with far more amenities than traditional apartment buildings can ever offer such as 24-hour concierges, increased security, swimming pools and saunas, fitness centers, party rooms and more.

Renting a condo is, legally speaking, no different than any other rental. Renters are entitled to the same rights and privileges as the owners in the buildings, however are bound to their contract with the landlord of the unit. Whether the landlord of individual suites, the owner of an entire apartment building, or one who owns a house with an apartment in the basement, in all scenarios both the landlord and tenant must abide by the rules set out by the province.

The following are two key tips when looking for a condo to rent:

1) Interview The Landlord
It's not just the potential renters that should be screened. Tenants should do their due diligence as well and do the same to their potential landlords. Feel free to ask a potential landlord what their qualifications are and find out if they are versed in the rules regarding tenancy laws in Ontario. Doing so may help prevent problems after you've moved in. For example, some landlords think they can enter a tenants dwelling as they see fit since they actually own it, when in fact they must give 24 hours written notice before entering.

The key to any agreement is not just to comprehend what is set out in the legal documents, but to have an understanding with the landlord. Don’t expect leniency because you have a good relationship with your landlord. However, building a relationship based on good communication never hurts.

2) Get Yourself an Agent
Finding a place to rent is generally time consuming and takes a lot of leg work. Save yourself the trouble. If you're checking out condos, contact a real estate agent to help you. They'll be able to select suitable condos based on the criteria you give them. Plus, because the agent gets compensated by the landlord, it's totally free for you!


This article was written by Chad Bradley. Chad is a Toronto-based real estate agent who specializes in condos, lofts and townhomes. To learn more about Chad’s services, check out his website at www.freecondoguide.com
October 29th, 2007 at 2:18:03 pm by the myhood.ca team

Searching for Apartment Rental Availability

The fact that you’re reading this article could likely mean that you’ve found the best source for finding an apartment rental in Toronto – myhood.ca. But we’ll let you decide. Below are the key sources to consult when searching for rental availability:

The Internet: The Internet is quickly becoming the best means to find apartment rentals. Whether it be an apartment rental website, like myhood.ca or online classifieds – the ease of searching for apartment rental vacancies and all the necessary details from your couch simply can’t be beat. Just within Toronto, there are over 30 different rental search websites – so there’s an abundance of choice. Choose the ones that offer the most value whether it be number of listings or apartment reviews. Click here to search for rental listings and click here to search for apartment reviews.

Newspapers: Old school, but still useful – especially if you’re sitting on a subway or don't have access to the internet. Metro newspapers (i.e. Toronto Star), free weekly newspapers (i.e. NOW Magazine) and community newspapers all have classified sections filled with listings. Circle and call. Note that many of the listings in the classified section of the newspapers are also online on their website, so even if you pick up the paper in the morning, likely many of listings have already been viewed many times online.

Real Estate Agents: If you don’t want to put in the effort – they’ll be happy to – especially if they think that you’re next step will be to buy a place. The nice thing is that you don’t have to pay them – the landlord does. However, the landlord only pays them if they’re trying to rent out their place through a real estate agent as well. So, beware. Real estate agents are helpful, but they’ll only show you listings that they can get paid if you lease the unit – which usually means only condo listings - which is a relatively small portion of the market.

Walking Around: Funny enough, this is still a good option for finding a place. Many landlords will have a “For Rent” signs outside of their unit or building. So, why not go to the neighborhood you’d like to live in, walk around, and if there’s a building of interest, give it a call (the phone number is on the sign) and you’ll likely be able to see it immediately…

The net result of searching for a place is dependent on how motivated you are. If you’re willing to put in the effort, there’s no reason that you can’t use the internet to check out a few sites, get a real estate agent looking for a condo for you and walk around your choice locations one evening or weekend. The more options you employ, the better chance you have of finding a great apartment rental in Toronto or any city for that matter.
October 24th, 2007 at 6:50:25 pm by the myhood.ca team