Do you seek tenants committed to their apartments for the long term, who prioritize timely rent payments and take good care of their living spaces.
**Refugees aspire to find a permanent place they can truly call home**
Refugees settling in Waterloo Region
In 2023, the Government of Canada anticipates that over 750 refugees will arrive in Waterloo Region, fleeing violence and conflict around the globe. Reception House provides a warm welcome, basic needs, and settlement and integration support, including helping them find their first home in Canada.
But we need your help! We’re looking for local landlords, property managers, and individuals with in-house flats, apartments, and homes who are willing to rent to refugees.
“As Canada continues to welcome refugees, it is important for all landlords to consider how they can play a role in providing a warm welcome for these families.”
Lindsey Bett
Director of Sales & Marketing, Vive Development.Vive Development collaborates with Reception House to rent apartments to refugees in their multi-unit buildings at affordable rates.
“We love Kitchener and are thrilled to welcome new members to our community. Our experience providing affordable housing solutions for refugees continues to be very rewarding. The support provided by local organizations such as Reception House, including tenant communication, language and employment support, as well as ongoing tenancy check-ins certainly makes the landlord-tenant relationship seamless.”
Kathy Elliot
Realtor and LandlordRenting to Refugees Makes Sense
Sometimes Waterloo Region landlords and property managers are nervous about renting to refugees. You want to welcome refugees but you’re also running a business.
It’s possible to do both!
Three reasons why renting to refugees makes good business sense
- Newcomers to Canada are motivated to find long-term housing and employment. They left their countries to escape danger and chaos. They want stability.
- Government-sponsored refugees receive a full-year of financial support from the Canadian government. They can pay rent while they find employment.
- Refugees referred by Reception House learn how to care for a home.
Discover How Reception House Supports Landlords and Property Managers Renting to Refugee Tenants: Four Key Approaches
- Orientation to Canadian Life: We educate refugees on various aspects of Canadian living, including recycling practices, operation of household appliances like stoves and washing machines, and expectations around cleanliness, pet ownership, noise levels, and other neighborly habits.
- Mediation Services: We offer assistance in resolving communication breakdowns between landlords and tenants. Additionally, we provide a communication cheat sheet featuring common phrases related to renting and home maintenance.
- Access to Community Grants: In the event of a rent shortfall, we connect tenants with community grants and other resources to bridge the gap.
- Tenant Referrals: Upon tenant departure, we facilitate referrals to other refugees who are prepared to move in at short notice, ensuring seamless transitions within the community