For short terms - Airbnb is awesome!
Play with the filters and locations and you'll find something in your price and date range.
For longer terms - May I suggest you try kijiji or similar sites which have the section - "short term rentals" and look for ads with 3-6 months term.
These options are great (esp if they are furnished) while you're job hunting and you have not decided on a place yet. The best bet will be 10-20 kms within the downtown area pref not far from
A bus or subway or streetcar stop.
With short term rentals the subletters/landlords are not that strict with references or credit checks etc. It's a fixed period up for rent.
Do however excercise caution while dealing on kijiji or the likes. Meet in person, check out the place, checkout the area, the community, the building management (if there is), talk to the landlord and iron out the details before handing over your cheque.
As always, better to be safe.
This is how I found a place for the next 6 months (without job or references or credit history) after staying in an airbnb initially for a month.
Also, post a "wanted" ad on kijiji (it's free) with your requirements & details. People do reply and seek out to rent/sublet their place.
