Find a place in Ottawa within 4 weeks

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An English-speaking Home Finder, based on-site

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Shortlists properties and visits them for you

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Backs your application and negotiates the lease

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Every step protected, no hidden surprises

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Personalised support from C$810

You only pay after approving your quote

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Why choose a home finder ?

Aude, ou un autre de nos chasseurs à Ottawa, prendra en charge votre recherche

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Adrienne, or one of our other home finders in à Ottawa, will take care of your search.

Reliability of listings
Your hunter is there to select the goods, he visits them, alone, with you in person, or with you by video. And above all, he knows how to rely on reliable business partners who only present him with quality goods.
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Market access
Your hunter can offer you his own goods, he also has access to all the offers published on the market, and even to quite a few off market offers
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Scam risk
At Remoters, we no longer count the number of French people who have signed a rental contract abroad, without understanding it. Some unscrupulous sellers take advantage of this to insert conditions that are disadvantageous for the tenant. This cannot happen when the contract is reviewed by our hunter.
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Access to local prices
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When you search alone, about 85% of the time is spent on research, and 15% on visits. With a hunter, you only do the visits
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Application accepted
In areas where homeowners have plenty of candidates to choose from, they rarely choose foreigners first. Your hunter will use his influence (and his mastery of the language) to put your case before others.
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Satisfaction
Only 20% of satisfied buyers according to the 2018 Crédit Foncier study. For its part, Remoters gets a score of 4/5 or 5/5 in 95% of cases
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Browsing online listings

Weak
Weak
Elevated
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Uncertain
20%

Finding with Remoters

Total
Total
Weak
Inclus
Very likely
95%
Ottawa
Ottawa, Canada's capital, offers a competitive long-term rental market with a vacancy rate of just 2.6% as of 2024 (CMHC). Average rents range from approximately 1,575 CAD/month for a studio to 2,400 CAD/month for a two-bedroom apartment (Zumper, June 2026). Key rental neighbourhoods include Centretown, Westboro, The Glebe, Sandy Hill, and the more affordable Vanier and Orléans. All residential tenancies in Ottawa are governed by Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act, which mandates the use of a standard provincial lease and limits deposits to one month's rent. The city is served by the O-Train light rail network and is home to major institutions including the University of Ottawa, Carleton University, and the National Gallery of Canada.

Ottawa in brief: Canada's capital has a tight rental market (2.6% vacancy, CMHC 2024) with average rents of approximately 1,900 CAD/month for a one-bedroom and 2,400 CAD/month for a two-bedroom (Zumper, June 2026). Key neighbourhoods for renters include Centretown, Westboro, The Glebe, and the more affordable Vanier and Orléans. All tenancies are governed by Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act; landlords must use the provincial standard lease and may only collect a last-month's-rent deposit. Start your search at least 60 days early and have your rental application documents ready.

Ottawa is Canada's capital city and one of the country's most liveable urban centres. Home to federal government institutions, world-class universities such as the University of Ottawa and Carleton University, and a thriving technology sector, the city attracts professionals, students, and families from across Canada and abroad.

The city offers a high quality of life: extensive green spaces including the Rideau Canal (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Gatineau Park just across the river in Québec, and over 800 kilometres of cycling paths. Ottawa is officially bilingual, with a strong francophone community alongside its anglophone majority, making it particularly welcoming to French speakers.

Compared to Toronto or Vancouver, Ottawa offers a more manageable pace of life and relatively more affordable rents. The city's public transit network — including the O-Train light rail system — connects major neighbourhoods and employment hubs. Cultural institutions such as the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian Museum of History, and the Canadian War Museum are all accessible to residents.

Day-to-day life in Ottawa is shaped by its four distinct seasons, bilingual character, and status as a federal capital. Here is what to expect when settling in:

  • Transport: Ottawa's O-Train light rail network (Confederation Line and Trillium Line) connects the city centre with suburbs including Kanata and Orléans. OC Transpo buses complement the network. Cycling is popular year-round, with over 800 km of paths.
  • Utilities: Electricity is supplied by Hydro Ottawa. Average monthly utility costs (electricity, heating, water, internet) total approximately 310 CAD/month (Numbeo, August 2024). Ottawa winters are cold, which can push heating costs higher from November to March.
  • Groceries: Major supermarket chains include Loblaws, Metro, Farm Boy, and Costco. Basic food items such as dairy, eggs, and vegetables are not subject to GST/HST in Canada.
  • Healthcare: Ontario residents are covered by OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) after a three-month waiting period. Newcomers should arrange private health insurance for the interim period.
  • Language: Ottawa is officially bilingual. English is the dominant language in most neighbourhoods, while French is widely spoken in areas such as Vanier, Orléans, and across the river in Gatineau, Québec.
  • Culture & leisure: The Rideau Canal, Major's Hill Park, the ByWard Market, and the National Gallery of Canada are among the city's most iconic landmarks, all accessible to residents year-round.

Ottawa's rental market is one of the tightest in Ontario. The vacancy rate for purpose-built rental apartments stood at just 2.6% in 2024, according to the CMHC Fall 2024 Rental Market Report, reflecting sustained demand driven by population growth, international migration, and limited new supply accessible to middle-income renters.

Rents have risen consistently in recent years. The average two-bedroom purpose-built apartment reached 1,880 CAD/month in 2024, a 5% year-over-year increase — the highest annual rise since 2020 (CMHC, Fall 2024). Units turning over to new tenants saw rents surge by an average of 23.8%, compared to just 2.2% for renewed leases, creating a strong incentive for existing tenants to stay put.

New rental completions have been concentrated in specific areas — notably Chinatown, Hintonburg, and Westboro North — temporarily increasing vacancy in those pockets. Meanwhile, neighbourhoods such as Alta Vista have seen supply stagnation and tighter conditions. The overall market remains competitive, and well-priced units in desirable areas are typically rented within days of listing.

Ottawa's neighbourhoods each offer a distinct character and rental profile. Here is an overview of the main areas to consider when searching for a long-term rental:

  • Centretown: The urban core, close to Parliament Hill and Bank Street. A mix of apartments and condominiums, popular with young professionals. Average rent approximately 1,755 CAD/month (SquareYards, 2025).
  • Westboro & Hintonburg: Trendy, walkable districts west of downtown, known for boutique shops, cafés, and galleries. Among the most sought-after rental areas, with rents typically above 2,000 CAD/month for a one-bedroom.
  • The Glebe: Tree-lined streets along the Rideau Canal, farmers' markets, and a strong community feel. Popular with families and professionals. Rents are among the highest in the city.
  • Sandy Hill: Located near the University of Ottawa, this neighbourhood is popular with students and young professionals. Offers a range of apartment sizes at relatively accessible prices.
  • Vanier: An up-and-coming neighbourhood close to downtown, undergoing revitalisation. Offers more affordable rents than central areas.
  • Orléans: A bilingual east-end suburb with family-friendly amenities, access to Petrie Island, and more affordable rents than central Ottawa.
  • Kanata: A western suburb popular with tech-sector employees, offering suburban living with good schools and parks.
  • New Edinburgh: A quiet, walkable neighbourhood near Rideau Hall and the embassies. Offers upscale rentals and a village atmosphere.

Ottawa's rental market is considered mid-tier within Canada — more affordable than Toronto or Vancouver, but with rents that have risen steadily in recent years. The overall median rent sits at approximately 2,099 CAD/month (Zumper, June 2026), placing Ottawa roughly 7.6% above the national median of 1,950 CAD/month.

Renters on a tighter budget should focus their search on neighbourhoods such as Vanier, Orléans, or Alta Vista, where rents tend to be lower than in the city centre. Those seeking a more central location — near Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, or major employment hubs — should budget for one-bedroom rents of at least 1,900 CAD/month and two-bedroom rents of at least 2,400 CAD/month.

It is important to factor in additional monthly costs: utilities average approximately 310 CAD/month (Numbeo, August 2024), and most leases do not include heating or electricity. Searching during the off-season (November to February) may yield lower rents or landlord incentives such as a free month's rent.

Rental prices in Ottawa vary significantly depending on the neighbourhood, unit size, and whether the building is purpose-built or a condominium. According to Zumper (June 2026), studio apartments rent for approximately 1,575 CAD/month, one-bedroom units average around 1,900 CAD/month, and two-bedroom apartments reach roughly 2,400 CAD/month. The overall median rent across all unit types sits at approximately 2,099 CAD/month.

The CMHC Fall 2024 Rental Market Report recorded an average monthly rent of 1,880 CAD/month for a two-bedroom purpose-built apartment, reflecting a 5% year-over-year increase. Newly turned-over units command a significant premium — rents for units changing tenants surged by an average of 23.8% compared to just 2.2% for renewed leases, according to the same CMHC report.

Condominium apartments tend to be priced higher, with two-bedroom units averaging around 2,170 CAD/month (CMHC, Fall 2024). Utilities — covering electricity, heating, cooling, water, and internet — add an average of approximately 310 CAD/month to your total housing costs (Numbeo, August 2024).

Renting a long-term apartment in Ottawa follows a structured process governed by Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act:

  1. Define your search criteria: Determine your budget, preferred neighbourhood, unit size, and desired move-in date. Start searching at least 60 days in advance.
  2. Search listings: Use platforms such as Kijiji, Rentals.ca, Zumper, PadMapper, and property management company websites. The Ottawa Community Housing website lists affordable rental options.
  3. Visit properties: Always visit in person or request a virtual tour. Check the condition of appliances, heating systems, windows, and common areas.
  4. Submit a rental application: Landlords typically use OREA Form 410 (Ontario Rental Application). You will need to provide valid photo ID, proof of income (pay stubs, employment letter, or tax returns), a credit report, and references from previous landlords.
  5. Sign the standard lease: Ontario law requires landlords to use the provincial Standard Lease template for most residential tenancies. Review all clauses carefully before signing.
  6. Pay the deposit: In Ontario, landlords may only collect a rent deposit equivalent to one month's rent (last month's rent deposit). No additional security deposit is permitted under the Residential Tenancies Act.
  7. Set up utilities and services: Arrange electricity (Hydro Ottawa), internet, and any other services not included in the rent before your move-in date.

When searching for a long-term rental in Ottawa, several common mistakes can cost you time and money:

  • Not reading the lease carefully: Ontario law requires landlords to use the provincial standard lease template for most residential tenancies. Read every clause — particularly those relating to rent increases, subletting, and early termination — before signing.
  • Underestimating total costs: Many listings quote rent excluding utilities. Always confirm what is included; utilities can add approximately 310 CAD/month to your budget (Numbeo, August 2024).
  • Starting the search too late: Ottawa's rental vacancy rate was just 2.6% in 2024 (CMHC). Begin your search at least 60 days before your intended move-in date, especially for a September move.
  • Ignoring the rental application requirements: Landlords in Ontario typically require proof of income, a credit check, and references. Arriving unprepared with these documents can cost you a desirable unit.
  • Accepting a verbal agreement: Always insist on a written lease. Verbal agreements are difficult to enforce and leave both parties unprotected.
  • Overlooking neighbourhood fit: Ottawa's neighbourhoods vary greatly in character, transit access, and price. Visiting in person before committing is strongly recommended.
  • Start your search early: With a vacancy rate of 2.6% (CMHC, Fall 2024), desirable units go fast. Begin at least 60 days before your target move-in date.
  • Search off-season: November to February typically sees lower demand, which can translate into lower rents or landlord incentives such as a free month's rent.
  • Prepare your rental file in advance: Have your photo ID, proof of income, credit report, and previous landlord references ready before you start visiting properties.
  • Understand Ontario rent rules: For most buildings constructed before November 2018, annual rent increases are capped by the provincial rent increase guideline. Buildings completed after November 15, 2018 are exempt from rent control.
  • Verify what is included in the rent: Many Ottawa rentals do not include utilities. Always confirm whether heating, electricity, water, and internet are covered before signing.
  • Use the standard lease: Ontario law requires landlords to provide the provincial Standard Lease for most residential tenancies. Never sign a lease that omits mandatory clauses.
  • Know your rights: The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) of Ontario handles disputes between tenants and landlords. Familiarise yourself with the Residential Tenancies Act before signing any agreement.
  • Consider transit access: Ottawa's O-Train Confederation and Trillium lines connect key neighbourhoods. Proximity to an O-Train station can significantly reduce commute times and transport costs.

Finding a long-term rental in Ottawa from abroad — or while managing a relocation — can be a complex and time-consuming process. A rental search specialist can help you navigate the local market, identify suitable listings across all neighbourhoods, prepare a strong rental application file, and coordinate viewings on your behalf.

This type of support is particularly valuable in a tight market like Ottawa, where the vacancy rate stood at just 2.6% in 2024 (CMHC) and well-priced units are rented within days. Having an experienced local contact who understands Ontario lease requirements, tenant rights under the Residential Tenancies Act, and neighbourhood dynamics can significantly reduce the stress and risk of your move.

What our clients say

Aude
Paul
Aude
Trustworthy person and good support, I recommend
Jean Christophe
Vlad
Jean Christophe
Super satisfied. Very efficient and friendly agent 👍😀 …
Aude
Kayllian
Aude
I am very happy. Aude was able to find a place that perfectly matches my criteria while respecting my budget. Moreover, she was very responsive to my requests and my questions, even with the time difference. I highly recommend her.
Sandrine
Giovanni
Sandrine
A chance to have been able to obtain the expertise of the Remoters team. Commitment, knowledge of the market, attentive and respectful of criteria are to be highlighted in an environment where the market is tight. An achievement and delighted with this collaboration. We can finally, through the qualities deployed by Sandrine, only recommend the Remoters structure. Thank you to you,

Buying property in Ottawa from abroad comes with significant challenges: time zone differences, language barriers, limited local market knowledge, and the inability to visit properties in person. A property hunter based in Ottawa acts as your trusted local expert, handling every step of the search on your behalf.

They attend viewings for you, provide detailed video tours, analyze neighborhoods, and negotiate the best price. With a property hunter, you avoid costly mistakes and save precious time, all while having peace of mind that a professional is protecting your interests on the ground.

The Ottawa real estate market has its own unique dynamics, including bilingual requirements (English and French), specific neighborhood characteristics, and local regulations that can be difficult to understand from overseas. A property hunter has in-depth knowledge of all Ottawa districts, from Centretown and the Glebe to Kanata and Orleans.

They can advise you on the best areas based on your lifestyle, budget, and investment goals. They also have an established network of notaries, mortgage brokers, and inspectors, ensuring a smooth transaction even when you are thousands of kilometers away.

Absolutely. Whether you are relocating to Ottawa for work, a government posting, or family reasons, finding a rental from abroad is extremely stressful. The Ottawa rental market moves fast, and the best properties are often taken within days of being listed.

A property hunter specializing in rentals will search the market proactively, visit apartments on your behalf, verify lease terms, and even negotiate rental conditions to suit your needs. They ensure you arrive in Ottawa with a home already secured, avoiding the stress of temporary accommodation and rushed decisions upon arrival.

International students arriving in Ottawa face fierce competition for quality housing near universities like the University of Ottawa or Carleton University. Without local contacts or the ability to visit in person, many students end up in overpriced or unsuitable accommodations.

A property hunter who specializes in student housing in Ottawa knows exactly which neighborhoods offer the best value, safety, and proximity to campus. They handle all communications with landlords, verify the legitimacy of listings, and ensure the lease protects your rights as a tenant under Ontario law. Starting your studies in Ottawa with secure, suitable housing makes all the difference to your academic success.

What are you looking for in Ottawa?

One of our home finders will look for the ideal property for you
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Long-term rental

standard lease, for 12 months or more
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Short-term rental

for periods of 1 to 12 months
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Colocation

a room in an existing shared flat
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Long term rental

classic lease, for periods of 12 months and more
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Short rental

seasonal contract, for periods of 1 to 12 months
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Colocation

a room in an existing shared apartment

How does it work?

1

First contact:Your home finder offers a free call to understand your needs.

2
Quote: If you’re ready to move forward, you’ll receive a personalized quote via Remoters.
3
Mission start: Once approved and paid, the housing search begins.
4
Support: Your home finder assists you through to the lease signing and your arrival.
5
Feedback: Share your review — your satisfaction is our priority !
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We are recruiting new home finders everywhere, do not hesitate to apply
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