First you will have to start by finding out where apartments for rent ads are posted. Most ads will appear in local newspapers and even online. You have to know which the leading newspapers in the area are and which site caters to local news and announcements. Sometimes some landlords will post ads at popular shopping malls so you can also scan their notice boards. Real estate sales offices may also carry apartments for rent as side business. They usually have a big selection at real estate offices you will deal with a real estate broker who may specialise in rentals.
Real estate sales companies like Remax real estate will be happy to help you find rental apartments but may also help clients to find an apartment for sale .Hopefully the client renting today may be a buyer tomorrow. In Canada it is not necessary to engage the services of a real estate lawyer to rent an apartment nor it is it legal to pay deposit fees but if you feel it is necessary you can hire a real estate lawyer for peace of mind. He can represent you at the rental board in case of any problems with your landlord or rental companyif you live in Quebec. This may be more important if you are renting the upper limit of luxury real estate rentals whose values run into millions of dollars. But generally you do not need to as the rental board is quite efficient and fair in the way it deals with disputes for both the landlord and the tenant.