Moving to a new city can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially for renters. With so many factors to consider, such as the cost of living, transportation and differing neighbourhoods, it can be challenging to know where to begin.
To help make the process easier, we have compiled a list of tips for renters when moving to a new city.
Do your research
Before you move, research the city to get a sense of the culture, cost of living and residential areas. This research can be incredibly valuable in terms of making informed decisions about your move and ultimately allowing a smoother transition to your new location.
Every city has its own unique culture and way of life. Investigating the city beforehand can help you understand what to expect in terms of values, traditions and the overall lifestyle. From there, you can better decide if a particular city may be a good fit for you.
We also suggest looking into the cost of living as it can significantly vary from city to city. Knowing the cost of housing, food, utilities and other everyday expenses can assist in determining if living in a particular city can be done within your budget.
Depending on the city, public transportation can be a major factor in daily life. Researching the public transportation system can lead to a better understanding of how to travel within the city and whether you will require a vehicle of your own.
A new city can be exciting to explore, and researching local attractions and events ahead of time can be a major benefit when it comes to planning your free time and getting involved in the community. Overall, researching a city before your move can enable informed decision- making about the entire relocation process.
Set a budget
It is important to set a budget before moving to a new city. Always consider factors such as rent, utilities, food and transportation. You should also factor in other expenses, such as damage deposits, furniture and moving costs. By setting a budget, you can feel confident you will be able to live comfortably in your new city without breaking the bank.
Another significant aspect to consider in your budget is the moving fees for your belongings. Selling or donating a portion of your items before a big move to a new city can save you money. And in addition, you can start fresh in terms of your possessions as part of your new beginning!
If you choose to lease with Avenue Living Communities, you can enjoy the added benefit of not being required to pay your full rent on the first of the month, thanks to our partnership with Zenbase. Think of it as one more way to help balance your budget!
Choose the right neighbourhood
When moving to a new city, choosing the right neighbourhood is of the utmost importance. When considering communities, think about your lifestyle and priorities. If you value walkability and proximity to public transportation, look for neighbourhoods which are easy to get around. For example, Avenue Living Communities has many accessible suites in downtown locations in Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon for convenient and reliable access to local amenities! Check out our map of properties here.
If safety is a concern, find out where you think you would feel most at ease. Also, be sure to consider the proximity to popular amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants and parks.
Each area within a city offers something unique, so it is imperative to factor in what exactly they have to offer when picking a place to call home.
Use a reputable rental service
With a recent rise in rental fraud and untrustworthy websites, it is important to know who you are renting from. So, in order to make sure the process is done right, we suggest using reputable rental companies such as Avenue Living Communities. For instance, we can help you narrow down your search by filtering for specific criteria, including location, price range and amenities.
Furthermore, you can put your trust in us to deliver an honest, trustworthy rental experience with all the information you will need to make a wise selection.
You can always reach out to our Customer Experience team for personalized assistance in your search! Simply call 1.855.247.1492 or visit avenueliving.ca to start a live chat now.
Take a virtual tour
Virtual tours have become more common as of late. Many rental services offer such viewings of properties to help save you time and money by allowing you to get a sense of specific properties from the comfort of your own home.
If a virtual tour is not available, you can always ask for photos or videos to be sent your way to better understand the suite you are interested in. If you are considering leasing with Avenue Living Communities, you can also check out some videos of available suites on our Instagram account!
Read the lease carefully
Before signing a lease, read it carefully to ensure that you understand all terms and conditions. Look for details such as security deposits, lease renewals and move-out procedures. If you have any questions or concerns, ask the Leasing Specialist for clarification.
Explore your new city
Once you have moved in, take some time to fully experience your new city. Visit local attractions, try new restaurants and attend nearby events. This way, you can feel more connected to your new community and see for yourself what your new city has to offer.
Moving to a new city can be an exciting and rewarding experience. By following these tips, we hope you can fully embrace the process and ultimately find the perfect home in your new city.