I totally agree with other forum members, it is not a wise idea to sign a lease before seeing the place ,there is a lot of scams going around here.
One more thing never rent apartments/basements from certain people(I am sure you understoodwhat I meant ,I have mentionedin my post several times), if you are renting single family homes, make sure you do your research thoroughly and meet the owner before you sign the lease,make sure you discusseverythinglike laundry, cutting grass,ploughing snow, maintenence,utilities,privacy (you might think this are basic things, trust me there is where they take advantage of you)etc, certain things you can't tolerate it ,you are moving to a new country you don't want to put yourself through that hassle .I heard certain people are so stinchy they will make your stay living hell.Many landlords I mentioned are just cheap and they will be extra nice to you when they meet you first but there is a lot of traps behind that smile.
Choosing a home is similar to Choosing friends believe me you don't want to make a bad choice on that.I am not exaggerating, I am telling the plain truth.