The Toronto rental market is presenting a unique set of challenges for newcomers, particularly those accustomed to different standards in their home countries. Even as virtual viewings are readily offered – a stark contrast to the often-rigid practices in London, England – the expectation of securing a furnished apartment is proving to be a significant hurdle.
Jenelle Tremblett, a recent transplant from London, detailed her experience navigating the Toronto rental landscape, noting the scarcity of furnished units. “I’d assumed it would be the same in Toronto, but move-in-ready places were few and far between — and much more expensive,” she wrote in a personal account. This unexpected obstacle forced Tremblett and her partner to arrive with limited possessions and embark on a largely unfurnished apartment.
The search for affordable furniture quickly became a full-time undertaking. Tremblett’s initial attempts to utilize Facebook Marketplace were met with frustration. Despite responding promptly to listings, messages often went unanswered, even for items advertised as requiring immediate pickup. This experience coincided with a severe weather event – a polar vortex that dumped 40cm of snow on the city – further complicating the process.
“Our apartment turned icy from leaving the door open while we ferried a chest of drawers—one drawer at a time—followed by a sofa into the building,” Tremblett recounted. The lack of readily available parking added to the difficulty, requiring multiple trips through slush and snowbanks with each purchase.
Supplementing the limited success on Facebook Marketplace, Tremblett turned to thrift stores like Value Village, finding lamps, glassware, and kitchen utensils at low prices. Desperate measures were also employed, including strategic evening walks to identify discarded furniture placed on curbside for collection. “Honestly, don’t knock it until you try it — that’s how we secured a T.V. Stand and coffee table,” she said.
The challenges faced by Tremblett reflect broader trends in the Toronto rental market. According to a report from Benhams, UK rents hit new highs in 2025, and while availability in Toronto has improved slightly, demand continues to outpace supply. The report notes a trend of tenants extending existing leases, with lease renewals running at 82% in September 2025, up 4% from June, suggesting a reluctance to re-enter a competitive market.
Data from the Ontario government, as referenced in a London rental market report, highlights the importance of understanding the composition of rented properties, cautioning that statistics should be interpreted carefully due to potential changes in quality. Here’s particularly relevant in Toronto, where the availability of furnished versus unfurnished units significantly impacts affordability and the overall tenant experience.
Six weeks into the process, Tremblett and her partner have managed to furnish their apartment with a unique collection of secondhand finds. While acknowledging the time commitment, she expressed satisfaction with the cost savings and the character of their home. Although, the search continues for a desk chair, a testament to the ongoing challenges of establishing a home in a new city.
