posted November 18, 2025

Quick Summary for Landlords

Before listing your rental property in Ottawa, taking the right steps is essential to reduce vacancies, attract quality tenants, and maximize income. The Ottawa rental market is competitive, and tenants expect clean, safe, modern units with responsive management. Here are the seven most important things landlords should do before listing in 2025.

1. Research Current Ottawa Rental Prices

Compare your unit to others in your neighborhood. Rent prices vary significantly between areas such as Centretown, Sandy Hill, Kanata, Barrhaven, Orleans, and Vanier. Gather data from platforms like Rentals.ca, Zumper, Facebook Marketplace, and the Rent In Ottawa website.

Key things to evaluate include:

  • Size and number of bedrooms
  • Parking availability
  • Interior upgrades
  • Proximity to transit
  • Pet-friendly features

Setting your price too high can lead to long vacancy periods; too low, and you lose monthly income.

2. Complete Essential Maintenance

Tenants form an opinion within the first 30 seconds of viewing a property. Make sure to:

  • Fix broken fixtures
  • Repair damaged walls or flooring
  • Replace burnt-out bulbs
  • Ensure doors and windows operate properly
  • Check plumbing and electrical systems
  • Confirm smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functional

A well-maintained home attracts better tenants and supports stronger rental pricing.

3. Add High-Impact, Low-Cost Upgrades

You don’t need a full renovation to increase your rental’s value. Small improvements can make a big difference:

  • Repaint walls in neutral colors
  • Update lighting fixtures
  • Install new cabinet handles
  • Replace old faucets
  • Upgrade window coverings
  • Add small modern touches like a backsplash

These upgrades photograph well and attract long-term tenants.

4. Take Professional-Quality Photos

Listings with strong photos get more views, applications, and faster tenant placement. Tips if you can’t hire a photographer:

  • Shoot during the day for natural lighting
  • Turn on all lights
  • Capture every room from multiple angles
  • Include photos of the exterior and neighborhood features

High-quality images make your listing stand out in Ottawa’s crowded market.

5. Understand Your Legal Responsibilities

Ottawa landlords must comply with the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). Review:

  • Repair and maintenance obligations
  • Rules for rent increases
  • Entry notice requirements
  • Lease agreement rules
  • Local safety standards

Compliance avoids conflicts and ensures you attract responsible tenants.

6. Set Your Tenant Screening Process

A clear screening process prevents future issues. Prepare:

  • Rental application forms
  • Employment and income verification requirements
  • Reference check questions
  • Credit check procedures
  • A consistent approval system

Strong screening reduces risk and prevents problem tenancies.

7. Decide If You Will Self-Manage or Hire a Property Manager

Determine how you plan to handle:

  • Tenant placement
  • Communication
  • Repairs
  • Rent collection
  • Emergencies
  • Legal issues

If you prefer a hands-off approach, hiring a professional property manager in Ottawa can save time and reduce stress. The Rent In Ottawa team can help with pricing, marketing, and full-service management.

Conclusion

Properly preparing your Ottawa rental property reduces vacancy, attracts higher-quality tenants, and increases rental income. Following these seven steps before listing positions you for success in 2025.

For assistance with pricing, marketing, or managing your rental, contact the Rent In Ottawa team today.