As the next semester approaches, thousands of students across Canada are preparing for another exciting term of classes, friends, and new experiences. But before the textbooks and study groups come, the real challenge approaches: finding the perfect apartment.
Whether you’re a returning student or new to town, securing a great place to live doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, a bit of research, and the support of a trusted rental provider, you can find a home that fits your lifestyle, budget, and academic needs all before the semester begins.
At Boardwalk, we understand what students are looking for: affordable rent, great locations near campus, comfortable amenities, and a welcoming community. Here are some helpful tips to guide you through your apartment hunt for the upcoming semester.
Start Your Search Early
One of the biggest mistakes students make is waiting until the last minute. The best apartments near universities and colleges are often leased months in advance. Ideally, you should begin your search 8–12 weeks before your move-in date. This gives you plenty of time to explore different neighbourhoods, compare prices, and secure your top choice before it’s gone.
Pro tip: Many Boardwalk communities offer online virtual tours, so you can explore from anywhere—whether you’re finishing exams or away for the summer.
Know Your Budget and Stick to It
Before diving into listings, take a close look at your finances. Beyond rent, remember to factor in utilities, transportation, groceries, and internet. Creating a monthly budget helps you stay realistic about what you can afford.
It’s also a good idea to set aside a small buffer for unexpected expenses, such as repairs, move-in costs, or seasonal changes in utility bills. If you’re moving to a new city, research the average cost of living to better understand how far your income will go. You may also want to compare different neighbourhoods — some might offer lower rent but higher transportation costs, or vice versa.
Choose the Right Location
Your apartment’s location can make or break your student experience. Consider proximity to your campus, public transit, grocery stores, and social spots.
Boardwalk communities are thoughtfully situated across Canada in safe, vibrant areas with easy access to major schools, downtown amenities, and transit routes, perfect for students who want convenience without compromising comfort.
If you’re studying late or heading home after evening classes, living close to campus or along a bus route can make life much easier (and safer) when winter weather rolls in.
Roommates or Solo Living?
Decide early whether you want to live alone or share an apartment with roommates. Roommates can help lower costs and make the experience more social, but it’s important to set expectations about cleaning, noise, and shared spaces.
Boardwalk’s 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom layouts are designed with flexibility in mind, perfect for sharing or creating your own personal study retreat.
Check What’s Included
Not all rentals offer the same perks. When comparing apartments, look at what’s included in your rent: uilitites, parking, Wi-Fi, and on-site laundry can add up quickly if not covered.
At Boardwalk, many of our communities feature on-site laundry facilities, secure parking, fitness centers, and community rooms, plus our Resident Members benefit from maintenance support and dedicated on-site management teams.
Don’t Skip the Walkthrough
Whether in-person or virtual, always take a walkthrough before signing a lease. Check for natural light, noise levels, water pressure, and heating. A quick visit can tell you a lot about the space and the professionalism of the management team.
When you visit a Boardwalk community, our friendly Associates will walk you through every detail, from move-in checklists to Resident Member programs designed to make your stay comfortable and stress-free.
Understand Your Lease
Your lease is a legal agreement, so take the time to read it thoroughly before signing. Make sure you understand the terms around rent payments, security deposits, maintenance responsibilities, and notice periods for moving out.
PIf anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask your leasing team for clarification—it’s better to confirm before signing than to face surprises later.
Make It Feel Like Home
Once you’ve secured your apartment, take the time to personalize it. A few plants, cozy lighting, and your favourite posters can make all the difference. Many Boardwalk communities even host social events and community activities, helping you meet neighbours and feel part of something bigger than just four walls.
Plan for the Semester Ahead
Think about your schedule and study habits. If you’re someone who studies late, choose a quiet area. If you love being social, look for a community that encourages connection. Boardwalk communities are designed with balance in mind — comfortable, quiet spaces to study, and warm, welcoming environments to unwind.
Choose Boardwalk — Where Students Feel at Home
Finding the right apartment shouldn’t be overwhelming. At Boardwalk, we make it simple. With communities across major student hubs like Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Regina, London, and more, our goal is to help students focus on what really matters—their studies, their friendships, and their future.
Our Resident Members enjoy the peace of mind that comes with living in a professionally managed, community-oriented environment. From move-in day to graduation, Boardwalk is here to make your student experience the best it can be.
Ready to start your search?
Visit our website to explore available suites, book a virtual tour, and discover why thousands of students choose Boardwalk every year. At Boardwalk, you’re not just renting an apartment—you’re joining a community built on comfort, care, and connection.