New Year, New Home: Tips for Finding Your Perfect Apartment in 2025

With the calendar flipping to 2025, there’s no better time to turn over a new leaf and find the perfect apartment for rent to call home. Whether you’re a young professional chasing new opportunities, a student settling into academic life, a family needing space and comfort, or a newcomer navigating Canada’s rental market, this guide will set you on the right track.

From affordable apartments in Edmonton to downtown Saskatoon apartments for families, here’s everything you need to know to kickstart your apartment search in the new year.

Know what you need as a renter

Before diving into listings, take some time to assess your needs. The “perfect” apartment looks different for everyone, depending on lifestyle and priorities:

• Young professionals: Look for convenience. Prioritize proximity to work or transit, and check for amenities like gyms, coworking spaces, and restaurants or cafes.
• Students: Focus on affordability and location. Choose apartments near your school with easy access to transit and essential services.
• Families: Safety and space are key. Search for family-friendly neighbourhoods, nearby schools, and kid-friendly amenities like parks.
• Newcomers to Canada: Understanding the rental market is vital. Learn about lease terms, tenant rights, and the types of apartments available.

By knowing your priorities, you can streamline your search and focus on options that fit your lifestyle.

Budget smartly to afford rent and utilities

Finding the right apartment starts with setting a realistic budget. Factor in not just rent but also utilities, internet, parking, and potential upfront costs like deposits. In cities like Calgary and Edmonton, rents can vary widely depending on location and apartment size.

Before applying for an apartment, you should budget for the following each month:

• Rent
• Utilities (water, heat, gas, electricity, internet)
• Rental insurance

Tip: In many Boardwalk buildings, heat and water are included in the price of rent.

Research neighbourhoods

Location is everything when apartment hunting. Before committing, research neighbourhoods to find the right fit:

• Calgary: Consider the Beltline for young professionals who love a lively urban vibe. For a quieter atmosphere, look at suburban areas like Seton or Glamorgan.
• Edmonton: The Central Core is great for accessibility, but areas like Riverbend and Royal Gardens offer charm and affordability, especially for students.
• Regina: Apartments in areas like Rosemont or Albert Park South offer a mix of affordability and access to local amenities, making them popular choices.
• Saskatoon: Neighbourhoods like the Central Business District and Nutuna are ideal for students who want easy access to the University of Saskatchewan and downtown amenities

Spend time exploring potential neighbourhoods, and don’t be afraid to visit the area at different times of day to get a feel for the community.

Use rental tools and resources

Technology makes apartment hunting easier than ever. Use rental platforms like bwalk.com to filter options based on location, budget, and preferences. Virtual tours can also help you narrow down choices before scheduling in-person visits.

Don’t overlook social media groups or local forums where renters share tips and listings. These platforms can be particularly useful for finding hidden gems in competitive markets like Calgary and Edmonton.

Be careful when using rental listing sites like Rentfaster, Craigslist, Kijiji, etc., as rental scams are more common than you might think. Read our guide to ensure you can spot the signs of a fraudulent listing.

Prepare your documents early

To stay ahead in competitive rental markets, have all the necessary documents ready:

• Photo ID
• Proof of income or employment
• References from past landlords
• Credit check (if required by landlords)

Being organized shows landlords and property managers you’re a serious and reliable tenant, which can give you an edge over other applicants.

Visit in-person for an inspection

Whether you’re conducting an apartment inspection in person or taking a virtual tour, pay close attention to:

• Condition of appliances and fixtures
• Storage space and layout
• Noise levels inside and outside the apartment
• Security features like locks and intercom systems
• Accessibility to nearby amenities

Taking notes and photos during visits can help you compare options later.

Read the rental lease agreement carefully

Before signing any lease, read it thoroughly to ensure you understand:

• Rent amount and payment schedule
• Policies on pets, smoking, and parking
• Maintenance responsibilities
• Lease termination terms

If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask the landlord or property manager for clarification.

Final thoughts on renting an apartment in 2025

2025 is full of opportunities, and finding the right apartment for rent is the first step toward creating a space that feels like home.

Whether you’re exploring apartments for rent in Calgary, searching for affordable apartments in Edmonton, or prioritizing family-friendly options like Saskatoon apartments for families, the perfect place is out there waiting for you.

Start your search today on bwalk.com with confidence and make this year the start of something new and exciting!