Be the Tenant Landlords want!

Looking for a rental in Toronto right now? It’s wild out there. Good units are getting snapped up in a day, with landlords choosing between five, ten, sometimes twenty solid applicants. If you want to stand out, your application needs to be more than decent – it needs to be sharp, complete, and confident.

Here’s how to put together a tenant package that actually gets you the lease.

1. Build a Tenant Resume

This is your intro. Keep it to one page. List your name, what you do for work, income range, rental history, and why you’re moving. It gives landlords a quick, clear picture of who you are and shows you’re organized.

2. Show Real Proof of Income

No screenshots. Submit a recent pay stub and a formal job letter on company letterhead. Landlords want to know you can cover rent without drama. Make it official.

3. Add Your Credit Report

Grab a PDF from Equifax or TransUnion. A clean report shows you're financially responsible. Even if your score isn’t perfect, being transparent builds trust.

4. Bring References That Matter

Past landlord? Great. Boss or manager? Even better. These letters help prove you’re reliable, respectful, and low maintenance; exactly what landlords want.

5. Be Honest About Pets

Got a dog or cat? Say so. Include details like breed, size, age, and behavior. Add a photo if you can. Hiding a pet will kill your chances; being upfront shows maturity.

7. Want Bonus Points? Send a Quick Video!

Record a short (30-second) intro. Say who you are, what you do, and why you’d be a great tenant. It puts a face to your name and helps you stick in their memory.

Landlords aren’t just picking the most qualified person. They’re picking the easiest, safest, most trustworthy option. Be that person. A little extra effort can be the difference between getting the place or getting passed over.