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Housing Search in Canada for Newcomers
Canada's rental market is tight: listings vanish within hours, viewings are mandatory and references are required. Searching from abroad without local help is one of the costliest challenges for a newcomer.
Our approach
We define budget, target neighbourhoods and arrival date with you, then filter relevant listings on local platforms.
Our team visits properties, documents condition and presents a shortlist with photos and notes — so you sign with full knowledge, even remotely.
Who is this for?
check_circleFamilies and couples arriving without a local network.
check_circleRelocating professionals on tight timelines.
check_circleInternational students seeking reliable housing.
check_circleCompanies placing employees in Canada.
Housing search in Montreal
Montreal is often the first settlement city for Francophone and Anglophone newcomers. The vacancy rate was around 2.9% in 2025 (CMHC): good listings disappear in days, not weeks.
The most active platforms are Kijiji, Kangalou and Centris. July 1st concentrates most leases — if you arrive from abroad around that date, plan from April.
Our Montreal team filters listings to your profile (family, student, couple), visits on site and produces a report before signing — essential when you sign remotely from overseas.
Questions fréquentes
How far in advance should I start searching?
Ideally 6–8 weeks for Montreal and Toronto. Vancouver may require more flexibility on budget or neighbourhood.
Can I sign a lease from abroad?
Yes, but a trusted third-party inspection is strongly recommended. We offer this as a complementary service.
How do I find housing in Montreal when arriving from abroad?
Start early on Kijiji and Kangalou, define your target neighbourhoods and have every unit inspected before signing. IR Conciergerie can visit and document units on your behalf — see our dedicated blog guide.
Which Montreal neighbourhoods for a first move?
Côte-des-Neiges and the Plateau for students; Verdun and Ahuntsic for families; Westmount and NDG for an English-friendly environment. We tailor search to your budget and profile.
