October 12, 2025
No Comments on Moving to Toledo? Here’s What Renters Need to Know
Welcome to Toledo, Ohio – a city known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful Metroparks, growing job market, and incredibly friendly community!
As you plan your move, you probably have a lot of questions.
At Buckeye Northwest Realty, we’re not just about properties; we’re about helping you find your place in our community. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what renters need to know when moving to Toledo, covering everything from the rental application process to local laws and essential contacts.
1. Finding Your Perfect Toledo Rental
Toledo offers a diverse range of rental options, from historic homes to modern apartments. Knowing what to look for can make your search much smoother.
- Affordability is Key: Toledo boasts a significantly more affordable rental market than many major U.S. cities. The average rent in Toledo is approximately $975 per month, offering excellent value for your money.
- Diverse Neighborhoods:
- Downtown: Ideal for those seeking an urban lifestyle, close to restaurants, entertainment, and the Maumee Riverfront.
- Old West End: Famous for its historic architecture, perfect for those who appreciate charm and community.
- Ottawa Hills/West Toledo: Known for good schools and family-friendly environments, offering a suburban feel within city limits.
- What to Look For: Prioritize your non-negotiables: pet-friendly options, in-unit laundry, parking, and specific bedroom/bathroom counts. Be realistic about your budget and needs.
2. Your “Ready-to-Apply” Guide (Buckeye NW Standards)
To avoid delays in a competitive market, organize your documents and ensure you meet the key criteria. Having this information ready signals to the property manager that you are a serious, prepared applicant.
Buckeye Northwest Realty’s Key Screening Criteria
To be eligible for one of our properties, applicants must meet the following minimum standards:
- Credit & Background Check: A minimum 600 credit score is preferred.
- Income Verification: Net take-home income should be 3x of the rent amount.
- Rental History: Positive and verifiable references from past landlords.
- Eviction History: No evictions filed in the past 7 years.
Application Fees & Validity
- Fee: There is a non-refundable application fee of $50 for each rental applicant over 18 years of age. This fee covers the cost of running credit and background checks.
- Validity: Applications are good for 90 days.
Detailed Income Verification
We evaluate net income over 12 months to ensure lease affordability. Applicants must be prepared to submit documentation to verify the following income sources:
- Pay stubs with year-to-date earnings (current & prior year)
- Social Security or disability benefits
- Unemployment income
- Welfare benefits (excluding food stamps & WIC)
- Alimony or child support payments
- Profit/Loss statement + tax return (for self-employed applicants)
- Section 8 Voucher / Rental Assistance Approval Letter
Document Checklist
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Document Category
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Item Required
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Purpose
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Identification
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Government-Issued Photo ID (Driver’s License, Passport)
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Verifies your identity.
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Financial Proof
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Recent Pay Stubs or P&L Statement
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Verifies stable income and ability to meet the 3x rent requirement.
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Credit/Background
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Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN
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Required for running credit and background checks.
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Rental History
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Contact information for previous landlords
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Demonstrates a positive rental track record.
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3. Setting Up Your New Toledo Home: Financials & Utilities
Understanding the true cost of living goes beyond rent. You must have funds ready for the security deposit, as this amount (typically one to two months’ rent) is due upon lease signing.
- Electricity: Toledo Edison (FirstEnergy) is the main provider. The average residential electric bill in Toledo is approximately $116.73 per month, though this can vary greatly with the size of your unit and efficiency.
- Water & Sewer/Refuse: These services are managed by the City of Toledo Utilities. An average household pays about $85.80 per month for water, sewer, and refuse collection combined.
- Natural Gas: Columbia Gas of Ohio.
- Internet/Cable: Spectrum, AT&T, Toledo.net (local providers).
- Renter’s Insurance: This is crucial! Renter’s insurance protects your personal belongings from theft, fire, and other damages, and it often includes liability coverage. Many landlords now require this coverage.
4. Your Rights to Privacy: Landlord Entry
Understanding your rights as a tenant in Ohio is essential for peace of mind.
- Your Right to Notice: Ohio law provides tenants with a right to privacy. For non-emergency reasons (inspections, repairs, showings), your landlord must give you at least 24 hours’ notice before entering.
- Emergency Exception: In case of a true emergency (fire, burst pipe, gas leak), your landlord can enter immediately without prior notice.
- Buckeye NW Commitment: We respect your right to privacy and ensure all entries are documented, scheduled during reasonable hours, and comply with Ohio law.
5. Key Toledo Contacts & Enjoying Life
Transportation (TARTA): The TARTA (Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority) offers bus services throughout the city and surrounding suburbs. The fixed route bus fare is $1.50 per ride; a 31-Day Pass is $45.00.
Key Toledo Contacts:
- Non-Emergency Police: (419) 255-8443
- City Services (Water, Potholes, General Inquiries): Call Engage Toledo 24/7 at 419-936-2020. (Always dial 911 for crimes in progress or life-threatening emergencies).
Local Attractions: Explore stunning natural beauty at Toledo Metroparks and enjoy culture at the Toledo Museum of Art.
- Toledo Metroparks: Explore stunning natural beauty at places like Oak Openings, Wildwood Preserve, and Maumee Bay.
- Toledo Zoo: A nationally recognized zoo with incredible exhibits.
- Toledo Museum of Art: World-class art collections with free admission.
- Community Events: Check local Toledo event calendars for festivals, farmers markets, and cultural happenings throughout the year.
Your Smooth Move to Toledo Starts with Buckeye Northwest Realty
Moving to a new city is an exciting adventure, and we’re here to make your transition to Toledo as smooth as possible. With our local expertise and commitment to excellent tenant services, we can help you find the perfect rental and feel right at home.
Ready to find your next home in Toledo?
Browse available rentals at: buckeyenw.com/rentals 📞 Or call us today at (419) 385-5555 to discuss homes for rent in Toledo, Ohio!
