Living on campus in your first year of university is one of the most exciting and fun times of most people’s lives at university, but as we all find out, you can’t live on campus forever. Moving into your first apartment as a student is a big and exciting next step towards independence. However, it requires preparation to ensure a smooth transition. Whether you're exploring apartments for rent in London, Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatchewan, or anywhere else you might be at school, here are 10 tips to help you get ready for off-campus living.
Before you begin hunting for a lease to sign, set a realistic budget. Factor in rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, personal expenses and how many people you might want to live with to split those costs. Knowing your financial limits upfront helps you narrow your options to affordable student rentals.
Many cities and provinces offer resources and financial supports specifically for student renters, including:
Exploring these resources can help you find out if you're eligible for additional financial support while studying.
Look for rentals managed by Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) like Boardwalk! These communities often cater specifically to students, providing safe, affordable accommodations with convenient amenities and reliable maintenance included. These are luxuries we don’t usually think about that professionally managed communities provide at a standard you just won’t find anywhere else.
Carefully review your lease before signing. Ensure you understand the terms, including duration, payment schedules, maintenance responsibilities, and any penalties for early termination. Clarify uncertainties with your leasing office.
Sharing your space with roommates significantly reduces costs, but it’s important to choose compatible individuals. Discuss expectations about chores, bills, and guest policies in advance to minimize conflicts.
Consider proximity to your university or access to reliable public transit as well as places like grocery stores. Apartments slightly further from campus can offer substantial savings as well as easier access to non-university services if they're near public transportation options such as:
Some apartments include certain utilities in the rent, simplifying budgeting. REIT apartments typically offer additional services like maintenance, landscaping, and snow removal at no extra cost. Make sure you know what’s included in your monthly payment.
Always inspect the space in person or via virtual tours if physical visits aren't feasible. Check for cleanliness, safety features, proximity to amenities, services, and overall comfort.
Familiarize yourself with your provincial tenancy laws. Knowing your rights and responsibilities helps you handle disputes confidently and ensures fair treatment by your landlord. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has great guides to renting and tenant rights, linked above for your convenience.
While often overlooked by students, renters’ insurance protects your belongings from theft, fire, or other damages. It's usually affordable and provides significant peace of mind. Boardwalk require renter’s insurance
Make a detailed checklist of essential items such as kitchenware, furniture, bedding, and toiletries. Coordinate with roommates to avoid duplicate purchases and streamline costs.
Boardwalk provides various affordable student housing options close to major universities across Canada. With professional management, maintenance, and student-focused amenities, Boardwalk’s apartments ensure a comfortable and stress-free living experience during your studies. Here are a few examples:
We here at Boardwalk understand how stressful first-time renting can be at times; that’s why we believe that proper preparation can simplify your transition into student living. We are committed to making your first rental experience as enjoyable and straightforward as we can. With careful planning and informed choices, you’ll be ready to enjoy your independence, succeed academically, and confidently embrace your new home away from home. If you’d like to explore our offerings further, feel free to check out our website at bwalk.com.