Rentably vs RentFaster 2026: Which Calgary Rental Platform Is Better?
If you’re searching for a rental in Calgary — or listing one — you’ve probably heard of RentFaster. It’s been Alberta’s go-to rental site since 2002. But a new challenger, Rentably, is shaking things up with a modern, mobile-first platform built specifically for how people rent in 2026. Here’s how they compare.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Rentably | RentFaster |
|---|---|---|
| Free for renters | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Free for landlords | ✓ Yes (all features free) | ✗ $19.95+ per listing |
| Interactive map search | ✓ Google Maps with boundaries | ● Basic map view |
| Neighbourhood guides | ✓ 5+ detailed guides | ✗ Not available |
| Digital rental applications | ✓ Built-in | ✗ External forms |
| Company profile pages | ✓ Free SEO-friendly profiles | ● Basic company pages |
| Built-in messaging | ✓ Real-time + email notifications | ✓ Email inquiries |
| Listing analytics | ✓ Views, clicks, conversion | ● Limited stats |
| Tenant screening tools | ✓ Included | ✗ Not included |
| CSV bulk import | ✓ With column mapping | ✗ Manual entry only |
| Mobile app | ✓ iOS + Android + Web | ✓ iOS + Android |
| Verified listings | ✓ PM-verified | ● Some verified |
| Saved search alerts | ✓ Email alerts | ✓ Email alerts |
| Cities covered | Calgary + expanding across Canada | Alberta + Saskatchewan |
| Founded | 2025 | 2002 |
| Total listings (Calgary) | 14 and growing | 5,000+ |
For Renters: Why Choose Rentably?
Both platforms let you search for Calgary rentals for free. But Rentably offers a significantly more modern experience:
- Interactive map search — Not just pins on a map. Draw custom search areas, see neighbourhood boundaries, and find nearby transit, grocery stores, and schools.
- Neighbourhood guides — Don’t know Calgary well? Our guides for Beltline, Kensington, Mission, and more help you decide where to live.
- Apply directly — Submit rental applications through the platform — no PDFs, no printing, no guessing if your application was received.
- Real-time messaging — Chat with landlords and property managers directly. No more waiting for email replies.
For Landlords & Property Managers: Why Choose Rentably?
This is where the biggest difference lies. RentFaster charges landlords to list properties. Rentably is completely free during our launch period — and even after, our pricing will undercut RentFaster significantly.
- Free listings — List as many properties as you want, for free. No per-listing fees.
- Company profile page — Get a professional, SEO-optimized profile at
rentably.ca/property-manager/your-companythat ranks in Google. - CSV bulk import — Import your entire portfolio in minutes with our column-mapping tool. No manual data entry.
- Digital applications — Tenants apply through the platform. Review, approve, or reject from your dashboard.
- Analytics dashboard — See exactly how many people view your listings, click through, and apply — data RentFaster doesn’t provide.
- Tenant screening — Built-in tools to evaluate applicants without third-party services.
The Honest Comparison
We’re not going to pretend Rentably is perfect — we’re a young platform. Here’s an honest assessment:
| Category | Rentably Advantage | RentFaster Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Listing volume | Growing rapidly | More total listings (established 2002) |
| Brand recognition | New & modern | Well-known in Alberta |
| Technology | Modern stack, faster UX | Legacy platform |
| Landlord cost | Free | $19.95+/listing |
| PM tools | Full suite included free | Basic features |
| Coverage | Calgary + expanding | Alberta-wide |
Bottom line: If you want the biggest selection of listings right now, RentFaster has more volume. But if you want a better experience, modern tools, and free listings — Rentably is the future of renting in Calgary.
Our Verdict
For renters: Use both platforms to maximize your options. But try Rentably’s map search and neighbourhood guides — you’ll wonder why other platforms don’t have them.
For landlords: There’s no reason not to list on Rentably. It’s free, gives you better analytics, and puts your property in front of a growing audience. List on both if you want maximum reach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rentably free for renters?
Yes. Rentably is 100% free for renters — no sign-up fees, no application fees, no hidden charges. You can search listings, message landlords, and apply to properties at no cost.
How much does RentFaster cost for landlords?
RentFaster charges landlords per listing. Single listings start at $19.95 for 30 days, with premium featured placements costing more. Property management companies pay bulk rates.
Which platform has more Calgary listings?
RentFaster has been established since 2002 and currently has more total Calgary listings. Rentably is a newer platform focused on quality over quantity, with 14 verified listings and growing rapidly.
Does Rentably have a map search?
Yes. Rentably features an interactive Google Maps search with neighbourhood boundaries, nearby amenities, and real-time listing pins. You can search by drawing a custom area on the map.
Can property managers use Rentably?
Yes. Rentably offers free company profile pages, bulk CSV import, listing analytics, built-in messaging, digital rental applications, and tenant screening tools — all included at no extra cost during the launch period.