Canada’s 2026 rental landscape is defined by high overall rents, more supply coming online, and landlords using stricter screening to choose among many applicants. Even though vacancy rates have risen compared with earlier years, lower‑rent units still have very low vacancy and remain hard to secure, so renters with modest incomes continue to feel intense pressure.

Housing is often the biggest barrier to settlement and stability for newcomers, immigrants, and refugees in Canada. CNAP’s Housing Readiness program is designed to move people from “searching and overwhelmed” to “informed, prepared, and confident” before they sign a lease. Through a practical checklist, guided worksheets, and live workshops, we help participants: