Do I need a real estate agent to lease my property?

No—but professional representation helps ensure the property is properly positioned, the tenant is qualified, and the lease is structured to protect your interests.

How do you screen tenants?

Tenant screening involves more than reviewing income and credit. It includes:

• employment and income verification
• credit history
• landlord references
• consistency and reliability patterns

“The goal is not just qualification—but suitability for your property.”

What is the biggest risk when leasing a property?

The biggest risks are:

• selecting the wrong tenant
• unclear lease terms
• lack of enforcement structure

Most issues arise from how the lease is set up—not the property itself.

How is rent determined?

Rent is based on:

• current market conditions
• comparable properties
• property features and condition
• timing and demand

Proper pricing is critical to balancing tenant quality and vacancy risk.

What should be included in a lease agreement?

A properly structured lease should clearly define:

• rent amount and payment terms
• maintenance responsibilities
• permitted use of the property
• occupancy limits (residential)
• default and enforcement provisions

Can I choose any tenant I want?

You can screen tenants based on financial and suitability criteria, but must comply with Ontario human rights legislation.

Discrimination based on protected grounds is not permitted.

What is the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)?

The RTA governs most residential rental agreements in Ontario and outlines the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants.

What does the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) do?

The LTB handles disputes such as:

• eviction applications
• rent issues
• maintenance concerns

It is the formal process for resolving residential tenancy matters.

What is a fixed-term lease vs month-to-month?

• Fixed-term lease: set duration (e.g., 12 months)
• Month-to-month: continues after the term ends

Understanding this affects flexibility and stability.

What happens if a tenant doesn’t pay rent?

There is a formal legal process through the LTB.

“This is why proper screening and lease structure are critical before the lease begins.”

Are commercial leases different from residential leases?

Yes.

Commercial leases are:

• fully negotiable
• more complex
• longer-term

“They require careful structuring and review.”

What is TMI (Taxes, Maintenance, Insurance)?

In commercial leasing, tenants often pay additional costs such as:

• property taxes
• maintenance
• insurance

These can significantly impact total cost.

What is the biggest mistake landlords make?

Treating leasing as a simple transaction instead of a structured decision.

“A well-structured lease and the right tenant protect your income—not just the property itself.”