January 04- 18, 2014 Volume 22 Issue 01
Brantford-Hamilton-Niagara Edition
Excellent Highrise Apartment Living Open concept - brand new kitchen + island
$500
OFF THE FIRST MONTH RENT AND 1 FREE PARKING FOR 1 YEAR
SENIOR DISCOUNT FIRST MONTHS RENT FREE
150 Sanford Avenue North Hamilton
TO VIEW PLEASE CALL
905-522-1111• 416-781-2423 INSIDE THIS ISSUE
BLIZZARDS, BLACK ICE AND MOVING
RENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Our Effort Is For You Apartment Rentals
www.effortrentals.com 1.888.461.0153 rentals@efforttrust.ca
APARTMENTS
LOCATIONS
✓ Bachelor, 1, 2 & 3 bedroom suites
Over 100 buildings located in: Grimsby Hamilton Jarvis Ancaster Kitchener Brantford St. Catharines Burlington Stoney Creek Cobourg Welland Dundas
✓ Ranging from smaller, historic walk-ups to high-rise buildings ✓ 2, 3 and 4 Bedroom Townhomes
2G
Senior's residences in Ancaster and the heart of Downtown Hamilton
ABOUT US ✓ Courteous, knowledgeable and prompt to respond ✓ We strive to provide our tenants with clean, well maintained rentals that represent exceptional value and comfort
Apartment Rentals
LONGWOOD
UPPER JAMES
GRANADA
9 Longwood Road, Hamilton West End
631-633 Upper James Street, Hamilton Mountain
240 Mohawk Road East, Hamilton East Mountain
Located in West Hamilton is a quiet and clean building in a friendly neighbourhood. Close to major bus routes and quick access to McMaster University and Hospital, grocery stores, local shopping plazas, schools and parks. Ease of access to major highways.
Just North of Fennell on Upper James sits 2 walkup buildings. There is an outdoor swimming pool tenants share with neighbouring apartments. On major bus routes and close to Mohawk College, Wal-Mart, banks, local restaurants and many other services.
This building is student friendly; a great location with major bus routes in front. Nearby amenities include Limeridge Mall, grocery stores, local parks and schools. Ease of access to the Linc.
1.877.469.5244
1.877.469.5006
BEL GAL ESTATES
KENSINGTON
OAKLAND SQUARE TOWER 1
1.877.469.6992
50, 60 & 70 Jerome Crescent, Hamilton East End
115 Main Street East, Hamilton Central
Located near Centennial Pkwy S. & Queenston Rd. Includes tennis courts, exercise room, whirlpool & sauna, and an olympic size swimming pool for all tenants to enjoy. Rental Office is located at 50 Jerome Crescent
Located near John St.S. close to Jackson Square Shopping Centre, Hamilton Farmer's Market, Gore Park, the Hamilton Public Library, the GO Station and St. Joseph's Hospital.
Located near John St. S. Close to St. Joseph's Hospital and a short walk to downtown Hamilton, Jackson Square, restaurants, parks, and schools. On major bus routes and close to the GO Station. Features outdoor swimming pool.
1.877.469.4885
1.877.469.5231
1.877.469.4964
Availability online at 1.888.461.0153
123 Charlton Avenue East, Hamilton Central
www.effortrentals.com |
rentals@efforttrust.ca
Apartment Rentals
3G
apartments townhouses Spacious & Sparkling Clean Units, Near Bus Routes & Amenities and the Red Hill Parkway
Kings Forest Manor
288 Mount Albion Rd. | 905-578-5488 - Building Super Offers many features for your active lifestyle. Includes swimming pool, and is only steps away from the Niagara Escarpment. Well maintained with up to date amenities including underground parking for some units.
One and Two Bedroom Apartments
Kently Towers
Hamilton's
543 Queenston Rd. | 905-561-1239 - Building Super Worry-Free living is what you can enjoy in this extremely secure building. Ideal for seniors, close to many conveniences including Eastgate Mall, and bus routes.
One and Two Bedroom Apartments
Kingswood Place
6 Kingswood Dr. | 905-387-0848 - Building Super Your family will enjoy the spacious layout, complete with clean appliances. Steps away from grocery store, bus routes, schools and Glendale Golf Course. Very convenient!
Two and Three Bedroom Townhomes
www.desantis.com email: info@desantis.com
Head Office: 905-777-0252
Providing Hamilton and area with quality dwellings for over 30 years. Call us today, we’ll make you feel at home! 4G
A TRUSTED PLACE TO CALL HOME SINCE 1954 John & Charlton
The Villa Marie Community - 43 & 57 Forest Ave., 50 Young St., 151 Hughson St. – 905 528 5253
Main & Bay
Blink Bonnie Apartments - 136 Bay St. South – 905 528 4675
Main & Bay
Bay 200-200 Bay St. South – 905 529 9553
Main & Bay
Haldimand Apartments - 140 Robinson St. – 905 529 9553
Main & Bay
Robinson Place - 33 Robinson St. – 905 525 8373
Bay & Charlton
The Concord - 187 Park Ave. – 905 525 3371
Main & John
Landmark Place - 100 Main St. East – 905 528 1414
John & Burlington
Harbour & Marina Towers - 35 Brock St. & 600 John St. North – 905 526 1994
Main & Nash
The Eldorado - 494 Queenston Rd. – 905 573 6361
West & Fairview
Westgate Towers - 661 West St. – 519 751 3867
Fairview & North Park
Dornia Manor - 321 Fairview Dr. – 519 752 3596
Fairview & North Park
North Park Towers - 325 North Park Rd. – 519 752 3596
Glencrest & Guelph Line
Creswell Court Apartments - 3050 Glencrest Rd. – 905 637 6776
Plains & King
Warwick Court Apartments - 950 Warwick Court - 905 639 0456
Plains & King
Surrey Lane Apartments - 685,695,705 Surrey Ln. – 905 639 0456
Lakeshore & Brant
The Caledon - 1363 Lakeshore Rd. – 905 637 8431
Lakeshore & Brant
The Sandpiper - 1431 Lakeshore Rd. – 905 632 1427
Queen Mary & Rebecca
Park Terrace I, II, III, IV, V - 199, 205, 187, 189, 191 Queen Mary Dr. – 905 842 5300
Navy & Randall
Centennial Towers - 155 Navy St. – 905 842 3859
Speers & Kerr
The Premier Court - 41 Speers Rd. – 905 338 3342
Lakeshore & Dixie
Lakewood Apartments - 1257 Lakeshore Rd. – 905 271 5370
Dixie & Bloor
Pacific Way I – 3480 Havenwood Dr. – 905 629 7941
Dixie & Bloor
Pacific Way II – 1485 Williamsport Dr. – 905 629 7941
Lakeshore & Parklawn
Landmark Apt. -2493 Lakeshore Blvd. – 416 255 4559
Lakeshore & Parklawn
Promenade -2301 Lakeshore Blvd. – 416 253 2246 08753
ETOBICOKE
MISSISSAUGA
OKVILLE
BURLINGTON
BRANTFORD
HAMILTON
BUILDING DIRECTORY
Same Day Approval! Pre-Authorized
VISIT OUR MOBILE FRIENDLY WEBSITE TO VIEW OUR VIRTUAL TOURS AND APPLY ONLINE!
Payment Plans Available!
HOMESTEAD.CA 5G
UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT
Excellent Highrise Apartment Living 1 KM EAST OF DOWNTOWN
Open concept - brand new kitchen + island
$
500
SENIOR DISCOUNT FIRST MONTHS RENT FREE
off the first month rent and 1 Free parking for 1 year Jr. 1 Bedroom
725 allinclusive
$
plus $ hydro 3 Bedroom 1150 hydro 925 plus 150 Sanford Avenue North
2 Bedroom
$
Hamilton
TO VIEW PLEASE CALL
6G
9055221111 416-781-2423
Hamilton 01537
townhomes 515 Queen Victoria Drive
t Easy access to the Linc. Call
905-387-7221
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SINCE 1981
Downtown
www. GumieroHoldings.com
GUMIERO HOLDINGS
2, 3 & 4 BEDROOM $ townhomes from 970
140 Wellington Street South
info@gumieroholdings.com
905.561.8000 January 4 - 18, 2014
Jr. 1, 1 & 2 BEDROOM
from
559
$
t Clean & secure building t Wheelchair accessible Call
905-529-2616
Eastgate Square 70 Glenburn Court Spacious 1, 2 & $ from 699 3 bedrooms t Close to all amenities t Wheelchair accessible Call
905-561-6352 caledonia 130 Argyle Street North
1 & 2 BEDROOM
from
620
$
t Easy access to the Linc. t Wheelchair accessible Call
905-765-0895 grimsby 1 & 3 Slessor Blvd.
bachelor 1, 2 & $ from 603 3 BEDROOM t Clean & secure t Wheelchair accessible Call Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
905-309-8738 1
Hamilton 02417
2
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
January 4 - 18, 2014
Hamilton
RENAISSANCE TOWERS
100 FERGUSON AVE. S. Ferguson at Hunter HAMILTON
1 br from $610 2 br from $790
THE NEWLY RENOVATED
includes utilities
t *ODSFEJCMF 7BMVF t *EFBM %PXOUPXO MPDBUJPO t 8BML UP (0 4UBUJPO )PTQJUBMT 4IPQQJOH 3FTUBVSBOUT t 0O UIF CVT SPVUF t *OEJWJEVBMMZ DPOUSPMMFE IFBU t 'SFTIMZ QBJOUFE t 4FDVSFE FOUSZ t /FXMZ DBSQFUFE t -BSHF CBMDPOJFT
*Ceramic tile in kitchen, entry, dining room & washroom
t /FX BQQMJBODFT For rental Inquiries please email:
905.527.2626
suenicholson@live.ca
01505
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK & EVENINGS
Hamilton
Vittoria Apartments
635 $ 2 #FESPPN 735 $ 3 #FESPPN 935 $
#FESPPN
IZESP
IZESP
IZESP
Features: t $MFBO BQBSUNFOU JO NPEFSO CVJMEJOH t -BSHF CBMDPOJFT XJUI WJFX t 4IPQQJOH OFBSCZ PO CVT SPVUF t 4FDVSJUZ NPOJUPSFE QSFNJTFT t /FX QSJWBUF VOEFSHSPVOE QBSLJOH BWBJMBCMF t 2VJDL BDDFTT UP 2&8 /JBHBSB
Call
02467
221 Melvin Ave., Hamilton (Parkdale/Barton)
January 4 - 18, 2014
905.545.0244 Office Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
3
;GDCI 8DK:G
January 04- 18, 2014 Volume 22 Issue 01
C E L E B R AT I N G 2 0 Y E A R S VICE-PRESIDENT, WALL2WALL MEDIA
Jacqueline Hill
EDITOR IN CHIEF/DIRECTOR OF CONTENT
Susan Legge
DIRECTOR OF SALES, NATIONAL
Brantford-Hamilton-Niagara Edition
Excellent Highrise Apartment Living
;:6IJG:
Open concept - brand new kitchen + island
$500
OFF THE FIRST MONTH RENT AND 1 FREE PARKING FOR 1 YEAR
SENIOR DISCOUNT FIRST MONTHS RENT FREE
Josh Heppner
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER, ONLINE ADVERTISING SERVICES MANAGER, RENTAL ONTARIO
150 Sanford Avenue North
Anne-Marie Breen EDITOR
Hamilton
TO VIEW PLEASE CALL
ʰ ʰ t 416-781-2423 INSIDE THIS ISSUE
BLIZZARDS, BLACK ICE AND MOVING
RENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Elisa Krovblit
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
Sara Duck, Wayne Karl, Lydia McNutt CONTRIBUTORS
Chuck Resnick
Find out more about Precise Capital Management with their ad on page 6G
:9>IDG>6A ;:6IJG:H
MEDIA CONSULTANTS
Jamie Weinhardt jamie.weinhardt@wall2wallmedia.com MANAGER OF PRODUCTION
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Copyright 2013: All rights reserved by Renters Guide, Toronto, Ontario. Reproduction in any form is prohibited. Contents of this publication are covered by Copyright and offenders will be prosecuted under the law. Wall2Wall Media is a trademark of Yellow Pages Group Co. in Canada. Disclaimer: The views expressed by the columnists in this publication are not necessarily those of the publication.
IN THE NEWS 8G Norquay Property Management RENTERS' HELP 10 Loss prevention insurance is great, but prevention is better
CMHC 18 Renting a home - know your rights and responsibilities 24 Canada's rental vacancy rate increases MOVING 22 Blizzards, black ice and moving by Chuck Resnick
:9>IDGHÉ CDI:H
m
ost newcomers to Canada tend to settle in larger cities such as Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto and Montreal. Since housing costs vary greatly across Canada, finding the right place to live and work may mean doing some homework. List the most important features that you want to have in your community. Perhaps it’s great schools, affordable housing, close proximity to transit and plentiful job opportunities. Check out the statistics of the potential locations you have in mind online by using reliable sources such as the local school board website and Statistics Canada. There are always tradeoffs in the real world. Smaller cities usually have lower living costs, but you may require multiple vehicles to get your family from point A to B. Larger cities offer more transit and job opportunities, but you will have to deal with traffic, congestion and a possible increase in housing costs. Choosing a place to live is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever have to make. Look for good value in the home you’re considering, and look for a place that offers a reasonable cost of living based realistically on your finances, as well as a great quality of life. You can’t go wrong when you know the realities.
Susan Legge EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, National Real Estate susan.legge@wall2wallmedia.com
w
Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/SusanLegge
ith an incredible variety of options – from style to location, budget and size – we can all find the perfect apartment. But one other thing is crucial to finding perfecting – renting from the right landlord and/or property management company. I remember thinking my first place was perfect. It was in the heart of the Annex in downtown Toronto. It was freshly renovated and I had my very own ensuite and private deck! Then winter rolled in and the heating bills went up. And up. And up. But my place was cold! It was only when I went to fix a loose piece of trim around the window that I saw behind the wall – the newspaper that had been used in lieu of insulation wasn’t cutting it! My apartment in Mount Royal in Calgary was cool. Lots of space, great neighbours and a huge ball-and-claw tub. But when the building’s washing machines went out of order, one by one until none worked, it was almost a month of long hauls to the laundromat until the landlord got around to fixing a single machine. When it was time to move on and I turned over the keys to my beautiful and spotless, meticulously cared for apartment, my landlord offered no explanation or justification for keeping my damage deposit. I’ve learned my lesson – twice. While size, location, style and budget will always be top priorities in my apartment search, vetting the landlord and/or property management company will always be a crucial element. With this in mind, you’re ready for a move and we’re here to help. Our magazine and website, TheRentersGuide.ca, offer the best selection of apartments, informative articles and advice, making it easy to make your move!
Elisa Krovblit EDITOR elisa.krovblit@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/ElisaKrovblit Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/TheRentersGuide
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All copyright and other intellectual property rights in the contents hereof are the property of Wall2Wall Media and not that of the customer. The customer has purchased the right of reproduction in Renters Guide only and does not have the right to reproduce the ad or photo in any other place or publication. Contents of this publication are covered by copyright and offenders will be prosecuted under the law. Copyright 2013. Wall2Wall Media. All rights reserved by Wall2Wall Media, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Reproduction, storage in a retrieval system or transmission, in any form or by any means, whether electronic, mechanical or otherwise, in whole or in
part, without the prior written permission of Wall2Wall Media is strictly prohibited. Published every Saturday in Toronto by Wall2Wall Media. Terms: Advertisers and The Renters Guide are not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or misprints. Payment in full must accompany the Insertion Order by cheque, money order, Visa or Mastercard. Please check your ad for accuracy the first issue it appears. If you find an error, report it immediately. The Renters Guide will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion. Errors and Omissions Excluded (E.&O.E).
Brantford-Hamilton-Niagara Edition Serving: Hamilton, Burlington-Waterdown, Brantford, Niagara and St. Catharines
Bronte
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G:CI6AH 7N 6G:6 LOCATION
HAMILTON BURLINGTON/WATERDOWN ST. CATHARINES/NIAGARA CLASSIFIEDS
GLOSSY SECTION PAGE
NEWSPRINT SECTION PAGE
2G-7G, 12G 5G, 9G 11G
1 15 20 16
Price Range
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HAMILTON Effort Trust
Inquire
Effort Trust - Various Locations
Inquire
Kingswood Place-6 Kingswood Drive
Inquire
Kings Forest Manor-288 Mount Albion Rd.
Inquire
Kently Towers-543 Queenston Rd.
Inquire
Homestead Land Holdings Limited - Various Locations
Inquire
Precise Capital Management - 150 Sanford Avenue North
Inquire
Camelot Towers
Inquire
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Medallion Corp - 235 Rebecca Street
Inquire
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Medallion Corp - 195 Wellington Street
Inquire
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40 Grandville
From $695
70 Glenburn Court
$539-$719
Centennial & Barton
From $675
First Place
From $450
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Medallion - 235 Rebecca St. & 195 Wellington St.
Inquire
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Parkdale & Barton - 221 Melvin
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The Renters Guide makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of our index, however availability and prices change daily. Please refer to the specific ad and call the advertiser for more details.
Complex
Price Range
Renaissance Towers
From $610
Wellington & Main - 140 Wellington S.
From $609
John & Charlton - 129 Bold St.
Inquire
St ud 1 io/ Be Ba d c 2 ro he Be om lo r 3+ dro B e om U dr til oo i Pa ties m rk In i c Ai ng lud r ed Co Ba n lco di t ny io Po /Pa nin tio g ol /S Fi ol tn ar iu es m s La un d St r y or a Fu ge rn N ish ea e r d Tr Pa an ge sit N o.
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BURLINGTON Homestead Land Holdings Limited - Various Locations
Inquire
Cumberland Village-3270 Prospect Dr.
Inquire
478 Pearl & 477 Elizabeth Street
Inquire
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Brant & Lakeshore - 478 Pearl St.
Inquire
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Guelph Line & Prospect - 3270 Prospect
Inquire
Ontario & Maple - 1285 Ontario
Inquire
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Panoramic Properties - Various
Inquire
Panoramic Properties - Various
Inquire
Tremont Apts. & Yorkshire Apts.
Inquire
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The Renters Guide makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of our index, however availability and prices change daily. Please refer to the specific ad and call the advertiser for more details.
renters’help
LOSS PREVENTION
Insurance is great, but prevention is better
T
hey say that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Think of insurance as the cure (sort of) to a number of bad things that could happen to you or your family. Yes, if you have a fire or a theft, insurance will help you pick up the pieces. But most people who have lost their homes in a fire — even those with great insurance coverage — will tell you that they would prefer if it had never happened in the first place.
Insurance gives you financial peace of mind. If you have the right coverage, no theft, fire, accident or hurricane can leave you broke. However, there are certain things that insurance cannot fix. For example: If your wedding ring or a priceless family heirloom is stolen in a break-in, insurance may cover the actual market value of the item, but the sentimental value cannot be replaced. If you suffer a fire and all your family photos are destroyed, you will feel a tremendous loss, even though the photos have no TheRentersGuide.ca monetary value. Insurers are in the business of compensating people when they suffer losses. Being so close to so many human tragedies,
TheRentersGuide.ca
insurers are passionately committed to loss prevention. They know that it is better to avoid suffering than to try to make up for it. If your home is uninhabitable for a period of time, you may need to move to a hotel or even a new, likely furnished, apartment. Some tenant’s policies will cover additional living expenses you incur during this time, such as meals (if you are in a hotel) and extra rent or room charges. Be sure to ask your insurance representative if you have this type of coverage, so that if disaster strikes you can focus on putting your life back together without worrying about the added costs. For more information talk to your insurance representative about your tenants’ insurance needs. The Insurance Bureau of Canada offers information for consumers to help make them aware of their insurance needs and assist them in understanding the types of insurance available. They are the national industry association representing Canada’s private home, car and business insurers. Its member companies represent 90 per cent of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. For more valuable information from the Insurance Bureau of Canada TheRentersGuide.ca please visit www.ibc.ca. Courtesy of the Insurance Bureau of Canada
TheRentersGuide.ca
LARGE 2 BEDROOMS
$745
ONLY $250 DEPOSIT!
01693
Hamilton
ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED! – HEAT, HYDRO, PARKING & WATER
Super convenient location Breathtaking views of Lake or Escarpment Convenient location – only 850 steps to Eastgate Mall, Lake Ave. Elementary School & Riverdale Rec. Centre
40 GRANDVILLE
Call
905-561-1106
Email:
violettowers@hotmail.com Hamilton
129 Bold Street HAMILTON
Your complete rental source. January 4 - 18, 2014
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
01606
Clean & Spacious
Centrally located near St. Joe’s Hospital. Juniors $670 + Hydro 1 Bedrooms $770 + Hydro 2 Bedrooms $870 + Hydro Parking $30 FOR RENTAL INQUIRIES please call 905-920-8810 11
Hamilton
AFFORDABLE &
Convenient
-BSHF #FESPPN
675
01680
GSPN $
IODMVEFT IFBU IZESP QBSLJOH
t SNBMM XBML UP &MJ[BCFUI #BHTIBX FMFNFOUBSZ BOE #JTIPQ 3ZBO 4FDPOEBSZ TDIPPMT
t 0O 4JUF $IJMESFOT "DUJWJUZ $FOUSF t 4FBTPOBM 1PPM GPS ZPVS GBNJMZ UP FOKPZ t 1BSLJOH GPS .VMUJ DBS GBNJMJFT 55 TINDALE COURT
Call today
905-578-6365
Looking for an apartment home where quality assurance makes a difference, then choose a Certified Rental Building!
Why live anywhere else?
12
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
January 4 - 18, 2014
03934
Hamilton
January 4 - 18, 2014
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
13
Hamilton
Follow the editor on Twitter at Twitter.com/ElisaKrovblit
Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/TheRentersGuide 14
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
TheRentersGuide.ca January 4 - 18, 2014
Burlington/Waterdown
1, 2 & 3 BDRM. SUITES t 6UJMJUJFT BOE XJOEPXT DPWFSJOHT JODMVEFE t *OEJWJEVBMMZ DPOUSPMMFE IFBU BOE " $ t *OEPPS IFBUFE QPPM TBVOB m UOFTT $FOUSF t 0VUEPPS TVOEFDL UFOOJT DPVSUT ##2 BSFBT QMBZHSPVOE t 3FDSFBUJPOBM BDUJWJUJFT t $MPTF UP UIF (0 TUBUJPO 2&8 )XZT +PTFQI #SBOU )PTQJUBM 4QFODFS 4NJUI 1BSL t 1BSLJOH BWBJMBCMF
905-639-8583 1285 ONTARIO STREET
(At Maple Avenue) Burlington, ON
burlingtontowers.com
Ontario Street Lakeshore Road
Joseph Brant Hospital
Unfurnished
To Hamilton
Furnished
407 Brant Street
QEW
nue e Ave Mapl
To Toronto
Mapleview Shopping Centre
BURLINGTON TOWERS
Lake Ontario
corporatesuites.ca Burlington/Waterdown
PRIME DOWNTOWN LOCATION BURLINGTON AA walk walk to to shops shops r r lake lake r r park park r r public public transportation transportation
478 Pearl St.
477 Elizabeth St. O Upgraded Windows
O Upgraded Suites/Utilities Incl.
O Outdoor Heated Pool
O Garden Terrace (Pearl)
O Newer Laundry Machines
O Indoor Parking Available
O In-house Maintenance Staff
O On-site Management
O Beautifully Maintained Buildings
O Spacious 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms
O Spacious 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms
(subject to availability)
478 PEARL ST.
(905) 632-1643
01555
O Modern Elevators
(subject to availability)
477 ELIZABETH ST.
(905) 634-9374
After more than 40 years of apartment management ... STELLEN knows how to make you feel RIGHT AT HOME. January 4 - 18, 2014
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
15
Hamilton
11282336_1.JPG
401 Main Street -East 1 bdrm apts $735/mo & 2 Bdrm apts $850/mo Hydro extra. Underground prkg included. Security cameras. Keyless entry. Close to all amenities,shopping & Bus Routes Call Kevin at (905)317-9885 Owned & operated by Rainco Inc
Hamilton APARTMENTS (EAST HAMILTON) -- Near Mount Albion. Spacious 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms from $595 Clean, well kept building, close to schools & shopping. No pets. Call (905)573-7813
Your complete rental source.
TheRentersGuide.ca is your FREE apartment guide. Pick one up today from over 4000 locations in the GTA.
16
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
January 4 - 18, 2014
Burlington 01553
January 4 - 18, 2014
$1,200
Three-bedroom without garage
$1,300
Three-bedroom with garage
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
17
CMHC
Renting a Home KNOW YOUR RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
W
hether you’re a firsttime renter or an experienced tenant, when it comes to renting a home, it’s important to make sure you understand your rights and responsibilities.
The first step in looking for a home is to identify your needs as a renter. What’s your budget? Which neighbourhood do you want to live in? How many bedrooms do you need? What amenities are important to you? If you haven’t already created a list of your needs and preferences, CMHC’s Rental Search Worksheet can help give you a head start.
To help you through each stage of the rental process, Canada
When you look at a prospective rental, have a list of questions ready to ask the landlord. For example, you may want to know if the rent includes parking or utilities, what type of lease will you be asked to sign, whether or not you can make any changes
Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) offers the following tips on how to find the right place to call home, and what you need to know after you move in:
Once you’ve identified what you’re looking for, it’s time to start looking for your new home. There are a number of resources available to help you find a place to rent. These can range from newspapers, apartment listing websites and bulletin boards in local libraries or community centres, to asking friends for recommendations or simply visiting neighbourhoods you like and looking for signs that say“For Rent.”
TheRentersGuide.ca TheRentersGuide.ca TheRentersGuide.ca TheRentersGuide.ca
to the premises, and whether pets or smoking are allowed. When meeting a landlord, try to make a good impression. Dress neatly and arrive on time. Respect the current tenant’s privacy. And make the landlord’s job easier by bringing your rental history and references, a letter from your current employer, and a cheque so you can leave a deposit in case you’re interested in the home. If you will be viewing more than one apartment, write down the key features of each place so you can compare them later. CMHC’s Rental Unit Evaluation Worksheet can help you evaluate your options and make an informed decision. When you rent a place, the landlord will usually ask you to sign a rental agreement, commonly known as a“lease.”Rental agreements vary from one province or territory to another, but they generally include the names of the landlord and tenant, the address of the property, the amount of the rent and what it includes, the date when the rent is due each month, the amount of any security or damage deposits, the term of the rental period, as well as things like who is responsible for maintaining the property, whether there are any restrictions on the tenant, and when and how the landlord can enter the premises. Once you’ve signed your lease, it’s time to move in! Moving can be a hectic time. A planning checklist, such as CMHC’s Three Weeks to Moving Day, can help you keep track of all the details, and help make sure your move goes as smoothly as possible. Before you move in, you and your landlord should inspect your new home together. Use an Initial Inspection Worksheet to document everything you notice, so you won’t be held liable for any preexisting damage when you leave. Once you’re living in your new home, make sure you and your landlord are clear on who is responsible for what, TheRentersGuide.ca especially with issues such as emergency or regular repairs, rent increases, or how to handle any complaints that might arise. In the event of an emergency (such as a
TheRentersGuide.ca
leaking roof or broken furnace on a cold winter day), try to contact your landlord or emergency contact at least twice, and give them a reasonable amount of time to respond. If you can’t reach your landlord and have to authorize emergency repairs yourself, make sure to document and keep all paperwork related to the repair for later reimbursement. If a problem arises that you can’t work out directly with your landlord, check with your provincial or territorial rental authority to find out if there are any tenant advocacy groups in your community. Do not withhold rent to pay for repairs, as this can be grounds to have you evicted. When your lease expires, you may sign a new lease, or you might shift to a monthto-month lease. Depending on where you live, your landlord could also give notice that they will be increasing your rent. For more information on renewing a lease and rent increases, read the CMHC Provincial and Territorial Fact Sheet for your area. Eventually, the time will come when you’re ready to end your tenancy and move out. When this time comes, you
and your landlord will again inspect the property together, to see if any repairs are needed above and beyond the usual “wear and tear.”Your landlord will also have to return any damage or security deposits you paid when you moved in, plus interest. Remember: you may need your old landlord to give you a reference in the future. So do your best to leave under good terms. Give them the proper amount of notice in writing. Make any necessary repairs. Allow the landlord to show the home to potential new tenants. And leave the place in as good a condition as you found it, so the next tenants will be able to enjoy their new home as much as you did. To find out more about renting a home in Canada, visit CMHC’s online Guide to Renting a Home or call 1-800-668-2642. For over 65 years, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has been Canada’s national housing agency, and a source of objective, reliable housing information.
TheRentersGuide.ca
03861
St. Catharines
20
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
January 4 - 18, 2014
St. Catharines
1 BEDROOM FROM $795 2 BEDROOM FROM $895
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TREMONT APARTMENTS
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Call to arrange a showing
1-888-636-3582
w w w. e f f o r t t r u s t . c a January 4 - 18, 2014
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21
moving
Blizzards, Black Ice
and moving BY CHUCK RESNICK
M
oving when ice and snow are in the daily forecast isn’t a popular choice for many Canadians. It’s cold and slippery; but with some extra safety precautions, winter moving also has many advantages.
TheRentersGuide.ca TheRentersGuide.ca TheRentersGuide.ca TheRentersGuide.ca
moving
Moving last minute? No problem, if it’s during the cold months. Choosing to move in the “off season� – sometime between November and March – can save you time and money. Summer is the busiest season for moving companies. This means you must be well prepared, booking six to eight weeks in advance to ensure your preferred moving company is available. Not only are they higher in demand but generally their rates are also more expensive. Some companies may be more willing to negotiate their rates during the winter months as they’re competing for business during the slow season. Likewise, less rush and stress for companies in the winter means you get their best employees resulting in a higher quality of service. With everything booked, now comes the packing. Follow these tips for a relaxed and toasty move – no matter what’s going on outside those frosted windows. t )BWF B DPOUJOHFODZ QMBO ,FFQ VQ to date with local weather forecasts and change your plans accordingly. If a big snowfall or freezing rain is expected the morning of your move day, don’t risk it if you have an alternative. t ,FFQ DP[Z $BSSZ FYUSB XBSN DMPUIFT for you and your family – including hats, gloves and snow pants. Pack these ahead of time and clearly label them so you can locate them immediately. t 3FNFNCFS ZPVS JUFNT XJMM CF JO B non-heated environment for a while. Ensure your plants, electronics and liquids are properly packed and protected from the cold. t "MMPX FYUSB UJNF PO UIF NPWF EBZ – cold weather slows things down. "EEJUJPOBMMZ SVTIJOH JO UIF XJOUFS can lead to accidents and injuries.
TheRentersGuide.ca
t )BWF ESJWFXBZT BOE TJEFXBMLT cleared of snow before the movers
TheRentersGuide.ca
arrive. Lay plywood down on muddy or slushy areas. Slipping can not only lead to dropped boxes and broken possessions but also personal injury. t 2VBMJUZ NPWFST XJMM VTF nPPS SVOOFST UP QSPUFDU ZPVS nPPST JO IJHI USBGmD area but for extra protection inside, DPWFS ZPVS nPPST UP QSPUFDU UIFN from tracked-in snow, mud and salt. You don’t want to be responsible for a mess in your building’s common areas – both in the one you’re leaving and the one you’re moving to. t %SJWF TBGF .BLF TVSF NBJOUFOBODF and service on your vehicles is current. Check the air pressure on your tires and ensure the trunk is equipped with emergency kits NBUDIFT nBTIMJHIU GPPE CMBOLFUT
BOE TIPWFMT %SJWF TMPXMZ XJUI FYUSB caution. t #F DFSUBJO UIBU ZPVS IFBUJOH DPNQBOZ for your new home is aware of your move in day. Wintertime moving doesn’t have to be wet and miserable. With these reminders, you’ll be packed up, moved and basking in the warmth of your new home before you know it.
Chuck Resnick is vice president Marketing and Operations for Two Men And a Truck - Canada, a division of Heron Capital Corporation. Visit www.twomen.ca
TheRentersGuide.ca
CMHC
CANADA’S Rental Vacancy Rate Increases
in Toronto ($1,752) and lowest in Québec City ($980). As Canada’s national housing agency, CMHC draws on more than 65 years of experience to help Canadians access a variety of high quality, environmentally sustainable and affordable housing solutions. CMHC also provides reliable, impartial and up-to-date housing market reports, analysis and knowledge to support and assist consumers and the housing industry in making informed decisions. For more information, visit www.cmhc. ca or call 1-800-668-2642. CMHC Market Analysis standard reports are also available free for download at CMHC Housing Market Information. Follow CMHC on Twitter @CMHC_ca
T
he average vacancy rate in the primary purpose-built rental apartment market in Canada’s 35 major centres1 increased slightly to 2.7 per cent in October 2013, from 2.6 per cent in
October 2012, according to the fall Rental Market Survey2 released recently by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). “An increase in the supply of purposebuilt rental apartments was partially offset by increasing rental housing demand across the country. Demand for rental housing was supported by both higher levels of full-time employment in the 15 to 24 age group, and a rise in net migration. Meanwhile, demand for rental condominium apartments remained strong,” said Mathieu Laberge, Deputy Chief Economist at CMHC’s Market Analysis Centre. The results of CMHC’s fall survey reveal that, in October 2013, the major centres with the lowest vacancy rates in the primary apartment rental market were in Calgary (1.0 per cent), Edmonton (1.4 per cent) and Toronto (1.6 per cent). The centres with the highest vacancy rates were in Saint John (11.4 per cent), TheRentersGuide.ca Moncton (9.1 per cent) and Charlottetown (7.9 per cent). Overall, the average rent for twobedroom apartments in existing structures across Canada’s 35 major TheRentersGuide.ca centres increased 2.5 per cent between
October 2012 and October 2013. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in new and existing structures was $920 in October 20133. The highest average monthly rents for two-bedroom apartments in new and existing structures in Canada’s major centres were in Vancouver ($1,281), Calgary ($1,224) and Toronto ($1,213). The lowest average monthly rents for two-bedroom apartments in new and existing structures were in Trois-Rivières ($555), Saguenay ($571) and Sherbrooke ($591). CMHC’s October 2013 Rental Market Survey also covers condominium apartments offered for rent in 11 large urban centres, including Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal. In this particular segment of the secondary rental market, rental condominium vacancy rates ranged from a high of 5.9 per cent in Québec City to a low of 0.7 per cent in Saskatoon, holding steady in most centres from October 2012. Average monthly rents for two-bedroom condominium apartments were highest
1 Major centres are based on Statistics Canada Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs), with the exception of the Ottawa-Gatineau CMA, which is treated as two centres for Rental Market Survey purposes, and Charlottetown, which is a Census Agglomeration (CA). 2 CMHC’s Rental Market Survey is conducted twice a year, in April and October, to provide vacancy, availability and rent information on privately initiated structures in all centres with populations of 10,000 and more across Canada. Reports are released in June and December.
The fall survey covers apartment and row structures containing at least three rental units and, unlike the spring survey, reports information on: a) Smaller geographic zones within centres; b) The secondary rental market (rented condominium apartments, single detached, semi-detached, duplexes or accessory apartments). 3 Year-over-year comparisons of average rents can be slightly misleading because rents in newly built structures tend to be higher than in existing buildings. Excluding new structures and focusing TheRentersGuide.ca on structures existing in both the October 2012 and October 2013 surveys provides a better indication of actual rent increases paid by tenants.
TheRentersGuide.ca
Picture Yourself Here!
Camelot
TOWERS
WEST HAMILTON Live in Hamilton and work in the GTA • Walk to school and the Hospital • Bus stop at your door • Mature treed setting • Large bedrooms, suitable for roommates • Outdoor pool • GO bus stop at our front door • Easy access to Highway 403
Main St. W. Exit
Longwood
Camelot Towers
McMaster University Hospital
McMaster Innovation Park + Research Centre
Main St. W. 403 Entry from Main
Hwy 403 403 West Ramp
Aberdeen
403 East Ramp
JR 1, 1, 2 & 3 BEDROOMS
665
$
FROM
905-522-5246 or 905-528-6922 avcanmanagement.com Proudly Managing for Over 40 Years
* applicable to all new approved application
7G
inthenews
Norquay Property Management
All the information about your new home in just a quick click
N
orquay Property Management is online with a new website, ndev.ca, making it easier for you to click your way to a new home. Realizing the potential of technology to simplify the home search, the easy-to-use website, designed by Wall2Wall Media, offers exceptional function in an attractive and userfriendly package. The wonderful thing about being able to search for your new apartment online is that you can do it at your own convenience, from the comfort of your own home. Offering extensive information about each rental community as well as the surrounding neighbourhood and city, you can narrow your search down to communities that best fit your needs, lifestyle and budget. No more complicated appointments with multiple sites, only to find that it’s not what you’re looking for, Norquay offers all of the information you need to make your decision.
But more than just information, their modern and easy-to-navigate website confirms that this property management company truly responds to the needs of its clients. Norquay looks ahead, manages and puts the best resources to work – exactly the kind of customer service all residents want. By creating an accessible website, they make it easier to find a new home with them, so that you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying life. Putting residents first has earned them a well-deserved reputation for quality and customer service.
With attractive communities in Woodstock, London, Goderich and Chatham, you can decide between townhome, low-rise and highrise living. Each offers a variety of amenities and conveniences, as Norquay has prime locations in each city. With the option of one-, two- and three-bedroom suites, as well as townhomes, there’s sure to be one that accommodates your needs perfectly. TheRentersGuide.ca
To find out more about Norquay Property Management and the opportunities they offer TheRentersGuide.ca in London, Woodstock, Chatham and Goderich just visit www.ndev.ca where you’ll find all of the information you need in just a quick click.
TheRentersGuide.ca
8G
The informative website includes more than just information on their rentals, it also offers a variety of articles and insights on rental community living, like tips for a successful move as well as the importance of Renter’s Insurance.
TheRentersGuide.ca
$1,200
Townhouse 3 bedroom without garage
$1,300
Townhouse 3 bedroom with garage
9G
LOOKING
FOR A NEW
APARTMENT? :H WKLQN À QGLQJ D KRPH LV D ORW PRUH WKDQ VLPSO\ À QGLQJ WKH ULJKW SURSHUW\ 7KDW·V ZK\ ZH SXW \RX ULJKW LQ WKH PLGGOH RI WKH VHDUFK SURFHVV
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e m o c l e W Home
St Catharines, Niagara Falls, Welland Apartments & Town homes • Beautifully Renovated • Five appliances included • Excellent neighbourhoods close to all amenities • Private courtyards and garden walk-out balconies • Outdoor inground pool
ST. CATHARINES
NIAGARA FALLS
THOROLD
196 Cushman 246 Lakeshore Rd. 30 Bradmon Dr. 473 Linwell Rd. 349 Queenston St.
7591 Scholfield Rd. 3401 Weinbrenner Rd. 6635 Thorold Stone Rd.
40 Front St.
WELLAND 155 Hagar St.
info@panoramicproperties.ca
905-371-1201 Toll free#
1-855-371-1201
www.panoramicproperties.ca *Prices, specifications and availabilty subject to change without notice. E&O.E.
11G
Welcome to the neighbourhood 235 Rebecca St.
REBECCA & WELLINGTON
Downtown Location
Walking distance to Jackson Square
Wellington St. N.
Cathcart St.
Wilson St. Ferguson Ave. N.
• On bus route • Underground parking • Friendly staff • Secure building • Laundry on Smart Cards
Rebecca St.
King William St.
$650* 2 Bedrooms from $850* 3 Bedrooms from $1000* 1 Bedrooms from
905-540-8086 Hamilton@medallioncorp.com
195 Wellington St. S. Affordably Priced
*plus hydro
CHARLTON & WELLINGTON
Quality Family Living in Hamilton
Forest Ave.
ss
Charlton Ave. E.
Wellington St. S.
John St. South
Main St. E.
Claremo nt A c ce
James St. South
King St. E.
Wellington St.
• We offer a clean, well-maintained, secure home for you and your family • Enjoy the convenience of schools and shopping • Large finished suites • On-site management • Base of the mountain • Beside park • Family surroundings • Laundry on site • Video cameras at doors & door fobs for additional security
Victoria Ave. W.
Quality Family Living in Hamilton
St. Joseph's Hospital
$680* 2 Bedrooms from $780* 1 Bedrooms from
905-522-7599
195WellingtonSite@medallioncorp.com *plus hydro
medallioncorp.com