Renting or buying a home in Canada
What to know before you rent, who may buy, the costs of buying, and where to find real price data.
✓ Checked against the sources: October 2026⚠️ This isn't legal or financial advice. Use an independent lawyer for any purchase.
Renting
- Rental rules differ between provinces, for example on credit checks, pets and smoking. A written lease sets out the rights and duties of both sides.
- Deposit amounts differ between provinces. In Quebec you aren't legally required to pay a deposit.
- If you pay a deposit by cheque, ask for a receipt with the amount, the address and the landlord's name.
- Don't send money before you've seen the place and have a contract.
Source: CMHC: I want to rent · CMHC: Rental payments and deposits
Who may buy a home
A federal law bans people who aren't citizens or permanent residents from buying residential property (buildings with up to three units) in urban areas. There are exceptions, for example work permit holders with at least 183 days left on the permit who haven't bought property in Canada during the ban, and properties outside urban areas. The ban was extended to 1.1.2027. Check the current status before you plan a purchase.
Source: CMHC: Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act
🔒 2 more sections in this guide
- 🏠 Buying
- 📊 Real prices
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