It’s nearing that time of year when summer is coming to a close, and college life is around the corner. Whether entering the post-secondary world for the first time or continuing your schooling, you might feel that one of the biggest challenges is finding the perfect student housing. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some tips and tricks to help you avoid rental pitfalls and ensure your housing hunt is as stress-free as possible.

Start Early

Four months of summer vacation may seem like a lot of time, but when it comes to finding the best rental for the next school year, it’s essential to start the hunt early. Begin looking at the beginning of summer to scope out ideal locations and put in some inquiries. Give yourself time to explore options, ask questions, and take tours. This way, you won’t feel rushed into making a hasty decision when September rolls around.

Set a Budget (and Stick to It)

Money is often a never-ending challenge for students. Before you even start browsing listings, set a realistic budget. Consider the rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, tuition, loans, and extra expenses, like entertainment. While it may be tempting to opt for a high-class living option, weighing your priorities is crucial to ensure you can still live comfortably during the school year.

Location, Location, Location

When searching for student housing, consider proximity to your classes, campus facilities, and local hangouts. A short walk to class might seem insignificant, but you’ll be grateful for those extra minutes of sleep on a chilly Canadian winter morning.

Research the neighbourhood that you’re interested in. Consider these questions:

• Is it full of fellow students? 
• Does it have plenty of family-friendly amenities like schools? 
• Do you want to live somewhere with a vibrant nightlife or on the quieter side?

Knowing what you want before you move in is key to finding the perfect neighbourhood. If you’re living in student housing, mention your preferences to the organizing body when you apply to get the best chance at finding the right fit.

Roommates: Friends or Strangers?

This is the age-old dilemma. Should you room with your best friend since kindergarten or take a chance on a random roommate? Both options have their merits, but remember that compatibility is key. Living habits, schedules, and cleanliness can make or break the situation. If you’re going the stranger route, don’t hesitate to chat or meet beforehand to ensure you’re on the same page.

Alternatively, if you prefer to live alone, keep in mind that this means you’ll have to shoulder the responsibility for all your bill payments. While the quiet may be nice, ensure you’ll be financially comfortable before taking this on by yourself.

Inspect Prospective Places

So, you’ve found a place that seems to check all your boxes. But before you sign that lease, take the time to inspect the property. Check for any signs of disrepair, pests, or malfunctioning appliances. Document all your findings and ensure your landlord is aware of them before moving in to avoid conflicts down the road. 

When searching for places in Ottawa, it’s important to look at the windows and doors to ensure they open and close easily. When closed, they should have a solid seal around them. Heating costs can get high in the Winter, so ensuring that the heat you’re paying for stays inside your home—and that the cold isn’t leaking in—is key.

Read the Fine Print

When it’s time to finally sign your lease agreement, read the document thoroughly. Ensure you’re clear on your responsibilities and rights and the landlord’s obligations. If something seems off or you’re unsure about a clause or term, clarify this before you make it official.  A few essential questions to ask include:

• What are the rules for non-tenant access? 
• How are maintenance requests handled?
• Are there any rules about guests? (This is especially important in student residences)
• To what extent can the unit be personalized? (Are you allowed to paint the walls or hang photos)

These questions, along with others, will help you understand your rights and responsibilities and the rules of your new residence.

Finding Your Living Space for Next Semester

With early planning, budgeting, and a keen eye for detail, you’ll be well on your way to securing the perfect student housing without falling into pesky pitfalls like time constraints, poor location, or roommate debacles. Finding the right place might take a little time and effort, but the payoff is a cozy, stress-free haven that lets you focus on what truly matters during your college experience: Your studies, friendships and unforgettable adventures. 

At CLV Group, we have many rental options for students in prime locations near post-secondary institutions in British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec. Explore your possibilities today.