Our Blog

In honour of Earth Day, a close look at the environmentally-friendly corporate philosophy and practices of Mainstreet Equity Corp.

If there's one thing Albertans believe in, it's supporting entrepreneurship. With COVID-19 closing so many businesses, it's more important than ever to support those still going. Fortunately, with so many delivery and takeout options out there, folks in Alberta can stay safe, eat well, AND support our community at the same time. Whether you are living in student housing by NAIT or SAIT, studying hard at the U of L's Dhillon school of business to start your own, cramming by candlelight for midterms at University of Calgary or University of Alberta? Just take a night off to chill inside while the weather is freezing out, order a movie and a meal to your Mainstreet apartment!

COVID-19 has stopped a lot of fun from happening this year, but with time and dedication, many event organizers have adapted to the challenges and are finding new ways to stage events. Here are just a few examples from across Western Canada, there's sure to be something for everyone to let you get out of the house to have some fun in a safe and responsible way! Here are some fun and frightening fall activities to get you out of the house and then scare you back in!

So what do our property taxes pay for? Nearly everything we rely upon in our day-to-day lives!

One very important reason to pay your rent is because we all rely on the services provided for by property taxes which the government takes from the rent you pay your landlord. These are the services that keep our cities running and our communities clean and healthy. It's important that the government charges enough to fund their services, but not so much that people can't afford to live or do business in a city. 

2020 has been a year for the history books. And in an attempt to return to normalcy some professional sports have been given the green light to resume operation and begin play. One of those sports is the NHL. The Playoff season began at the end of July and will continue in the months to come. 

Mainstreet has some very exciting news to announce for the summer of 2020! 

You, your dog, and your family, just like the rest of the world -- are in quarantine, shelter in place or some other form of lockdown, which means that your usual means of entertainment are probably off the table. Keeping yourself busy during these long days can be a challenge, or an opportunity to learn new things and get creative. In this post we are going to list of 10 things you can do, to help keep yourself busy in your Mainstreet apartment during the COVID-19 crisis.

Working from your apartment? The world as we know it has changed drastically in the past few months in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and with that so has the daily operations of many businesses globally.  In this post, we will walk you through some helpful tips to remain productive, positive and sane in a time that the world has transitioned to the WFH model and self-isolation.

From museums to nightlife, to street art. Regina has a lot to offer in terms of entertainment. We hope you take the time to experience it from a different perspective. Get out the door and start exploring, the queen city awaits.

Saskatoon's West Side is defying its reputation and proving that change driven by members of the community themselves is the most effective kind.

Edmonton's ICE District is often associated with Rogers Place, the Casino, the great shopping, and hot nightlife; but there's a more cultivated side to this thriving area of Edmonton, too. We'll focus on three modern places whose architecture is as fascinating as what the buildings host.

New to the City of Calgary? Or a born and raised Calgarian? It doesn't matter we have you covered. In this post, we will discuss some of our favourite events, places and communities to visit in Inner City Calgary. 

In 2019, Canada was the fastest growing country in the G7, with a recorded population growth rate of 1.4%. This was double the per-capita growth of the United States and the UK. Canada also posted over 4x the growth of France & Germany. If this trend continues, Canada could top the United States in Economic Growth this year as immigration being the driving force.

Western Canada's population growth trend continues at a pace exceeding even many of the most liberal projections of only a few years ago.

Canada is really popular right now. Between July and September of this year, Canada added over 200,000 people to our population, the most significant population growth seen since 1971.

With over 700,000 international students choosing to study in Canada each year, the country has seen a surge in demand for residential units. Mainstreet Equity identified this growing niche early on, recognizing that these students represented both significant spending power and long-term rental consumers, possessing the financial wherewithal to study abroad and so committing to one city for at least three to four years as well.

Real Estate Investing can be daunting to newcomers. In this post, we'll explain the differences between the three types of common real estate investments: Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), Real Estate Funds (REFs), and Real Estate Operating Companies (REOCs). We'll also provide a little background on each. 

Getting into investing can seem overwhelming for many people. In this post, we share some tips on how to select the right investment for you, considering and discussing factors such as desired levels of risk and return.

Deciding where to attend college or university is one of the biggest decisions most people will make in their life, this can be especially daunting if you are an international student. This post looks at some key facts and data points on foreign students in Canada.

Whether for financial reasons or to live more sustainability, more people are choosing to ditch their cars for good.

Renting an apartment for the first time? This can be an exciting, yet stressful time. We are here to help your transition into adulting as seamless as possible. This post will shed some light on the additional costs that come with renting an apartment and prepare you for them. 

Mainstreet's 2019 results mark the sixth consecutive quarter of year-over-year double-digit growth in all of our key metrics, solidifying a steady improvement in our operational performance that has continued to deliver non-dilutive value to our shareholders. 

The Government of Saskatchewan released its plans for the province's next decade. Focused on growing both the population and the economy, the plan strives to add 100,000 jobs and 226,000 people to the province by 2030. 

Alberta, Canada has experienced upward population growth over the course of 2018 and 2019. The following is a look at the 2019 Alberta population growth trends and where Alberta stands in comparison to other Canadian provinces.

Canada has seen a surge in property appreciation over recent years, especially in the Vancouver and Toronto areas. The increase in property value has made the dream of homeownership nearly insurmountable for younger generations. With today's property values, many millennials are unable to afford a home in the way that older generations were.

Are you considering purchasing renters insurance? If you are renting an apartment it is highly recommended. Renters insurance is becoming more and more common as many people chose to rent instead of buying a home/condo.

Millennials make up nearly 40% of the workforce in Canada. Homeownership is no longer the end goal for most working adults. Previous generations pursued homeownership, the latest generation of adults (millennials) are choosing to rent rather than own their own homes.

Are you a student looking for the best place to live in Edmonton? If so, you're in luck: there are a lot of great neighborhoods in Edmonton that are perfect for students. The following are the very best Edmonton neighborhoods for students.

If you are looking for a new apartment, then you already know that there is a lot of research that goes into this important decision. Here are 4 important factors to keep in mind when choosing an apartment floor plan.

If you want to make sure that you are prepared when looking for your first apartment to rent, take a look at our first-time apartment renter checklist.

Mainstreet Equity has a number of Calgary apartment buildings situated along the newly established bike lanes. These lanes are designated roadways and individual lanes exclusively for bikers in Calgary's Urban areas.

Not all apartments are pet-friendly, and not all neighborhoods are pet-friendly either. At Mainstreet, the majority of our apartments are pet-friendly, but there are a few things you should watch out for when apartment hunting with pets.

Even if you have a small bedroom, you can spruce things up and make it appear much bigger than it really is – with smart design and creativity. Follow these tips on decorating a small bedroom.

We've compiled a list of the very best tips to follow when apartment hunting to reduce stress and make the process as painless as possible.

The best way to avoid overspending on moving is to set a moving budget and then stick to it. Follow our guide to help you create a moving budget and save on your moving costs.

At Mainstreet, the majority of our apartments and buildings are pet-friendly, allowing our tenants to have their animal companions. Here are some of the newer pet features that are available in the marketplace today.

Are you considering living with a roommate? There are advantages and disadvantages to having a roommate, we compiled a few tips to help tenants find the best possible roommate.

People looking for an apartment these days are more concerned with the amenities in the apartment rather than communal amenities. Here are some of the more popular/in-demand apartment amenities renters are looking for.

Saskatchewan has vibrant communities, job opportunities, affordable cost of living, and plenty of sunshine, making it desirable for immigrants looking to relocate to Canada. What's more - the Canadian Express Entry immigration system makes it effortlessly easy to immigrate to Saskatchewan.
 

Both buying and renting have their own set of unique challenges and advantages. Here are some of the top reasons why renting a place is better than buying a property.

Moving out can be fun, exciting, liberating and give you a sense of freedom and responsibility that you may not have had before. You might also be nervous and there are questions you might have about getting your first place.

In this post, we will be breaking down each room in your apartment and providing you with ideas and strategies to help get your space organized.

You can get creative with your storage, turn it into a project to do on a weekend which will leave you not only cleaner but your storage could also be a visual piece.

Want to get in better shape but don't want to pay for a gym membership? Why not work out in your apartment: you get the privacy you want, and there are lots of ways to get a great workout, no matter your level.

In this post, we outline some helpful apartment tips to provide the ultimate treat for the little ghosts, ghouls, princesses, and pirates on Halloween.

One of the biggest challenges of being a renter can be making an apartment feel like home, designing it the way you want, all while getting your deposit back should you decide to move out.

With a new addition to our family, I have come to the realization that each of our kids requires different childproofing techniques.

Learn how to make the most of your apartments storage space with some of these useful storage hacks for apartment living.

A story from Hanna in Surrey on the value she has experienced being a good neighbour.

These five key pointers can help you when applying for any position and can turn a good interview into a great one.

The kitchen is the heart and hearth of the home – but it gets dirty fast. With the following five tips, you can easily keep your kitchen clean, green and fresh for a fraction of the cost of those yucky chemicals.

Lately, there has been one special family that keeps making the headlines. This family of four is originally from China and is scheduled to move to Calgary, from Toronto. Yes, I'm referring to the giant panda family from China.

Millennials are one of the largest groups of renters today, so if you have properties located around post-secondary institutions or close to city centres, this just might be the profile you are looking for.

If you live in Surrey or plan on visiting the Lower Mainland, BC city we highly recommend checking out these 5 restaurants.

Millennials are the largest segment of the workforce. If you are a millennial, here are 3 steps to take to begin your personal development plan.

Mehran moved from Halifax to Saskatoon. Follow her on her journey between the two Canadian cities.

How can you manage your way through this difficult time, particularly if you have lost your job and are facing difficult financial times? Below are some suggestions that may help.

Learn how plants can purify your apartment or living space in a natural way.

After living in Abbotsford for several years, and being a person who very much enjoys good food, I have eaten at just about every restaurant there is in Abbotsford. Here are what I consider the absolute must-try places.

Mainstreet Equity has helped house several families that were displaced by the Syrian civil wars. Learn more about the conflict and what we are doing to help.

The following interview tips are timeless. Follow these rules and you'll put your best foot forward every time.

Choosing a paint colour can be tough as it sets the appearance of a room. Here are a few myths and mistakes people make when painting their home.

If you live in Surrey, BC or plan on traveling to Surrey use this helpful local guide to discover 8 treasures Surrey ahs to offer.

The City of Surrey has over 6,000 acres of parkland and green space gives it the moniker, City of Parks. There are over 200 parks within the city. 

If you are a student, taking on a roommate is part of life when going to school. Here are some useful information on finding and keeping a roommate. 

We work with a number of organizations in Calgary. Through our work and the work of the organizations we support we aim to end homelessness in Calgary.

Learn from the Mainstreet CFO Trina Cui on how to control your money/spending and prepare for the long-term/future.

Learn how Mainstreet Equity's water conservation strategy and our efforts to save water.

Does your apartment have a balcony? Follow these tips and ideas for gardening on your apartment balcony.

Regional Manager Priyan Khosla shares the essential qualities of a leader.

Are you living in an older apartment? Here are a few tips and tricks to revitalize your apartments and make it look new.

Mainstreet Equity is proud of our team diversity and the diversity we promote in the workplace. We have team members from all walks of life and backgrounds.

Get tips and tricks on how to prepare your apartment for winter. In Canada, winter is part of life, learn how you can winterize your apartment and stay warm this winter.

Leamington Mansions in Edmonton was a heritage property full of character. On October 17, 2015, the building was sadly lost to a fire.

Are you moving to or living in Edmonton? Here are a few tips on where to live in Edmonton, Alberta.

Follow a few tips for decluttering your apartment and/or home. Reorganizing and removing clutter can make your home more relaxing and enjoyable, and help you find your 'Zen' spot.

Are you a student at MacEwan University? Here are a few tips for student housing and accommodations for students attending MacEwan University.

Are you having people over or hosting a dinner party? Here are a few ideas to help make it a success while keeping things affordable and within your budget.

As a Canadian, it is important to vote in elections when you can. Learn about voting and why it is important to you.

There are many benefits to renting. Learn about these benefits and the advantages that are more than just saving money.

Have you recently moved to a new city? If you are new to a city, here are a few tips to meet new people. Get a few tips on how to meet new people in Calgary (or other Canadian cities).

Get a few tips to dress for success and look your best for an interview or in a professional environment.

Mainstreet Head Office has undergone some renovations, adding elements of feng shui to our office, in order to create a positive work environment for our employees during this period of economic recession. Our goal was to maximize the positive energy in the workspace of our 110-year-old office building located in Calgary's beltline.

While it is generally true that older generations prefer to call a person directly, and younger generations tend to send off an email instead, there are pros and cons to both methods of communication in the office.

If you are an international student looking to study abroad (in Canada) follow this helpful To-Do list from a foreign student on our team.

While working at a fast-paced work environment – like Mainstreet's – can feel overwhelming at first, with some time management tips, it can transit into an exhilarating and exciting workplace.

CMHC is a crown corporation of the Government of Canada. A review of CMHC shows its mandate is to help Canadians meet their housing needs. This includes providing support for Canadians, objective research, and advice to Canadian industry stakeholders.

It's 2015, and your business needs to be mobile. Smartphones have seemingly taken over us humans, and thanks to Silicon Valley types that never sleep, the content beamed into these devices is becoming ever more sophisticated, targeted and abundant – you can't afford to miss out on the mobilization of your business.

Mainstreet promotes team members from within. Learn about one of our team members rise in the organization and where he started from.

You live in a Mainstreet apartment and want a have a dog? Worried about the space, neighbours, barking, and commitment? Follow these tips to keep you and your dog happy.

The future is uncertain. The best way to manage the future is neither to hold back on yesterday nor to keep today, but to create the future. An MBA can provide further education and a leg up when growing your career and future.

Here are a few lessons as well as tips from famous celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

Known for its highly debated oil and gas industry, pro-business tax environment, and traditional values, the province of Alberta has long been considered the heart of Conservativism in Canada. In contrast, the province of British Columbia, recognized by its commitment to corporate social responsibility, strong union presence, and progressive social agenda, has always boasted a much more liberal reputation. 2015 has proved to be an interesting year in both provinces, and in many ways, it looks like the political landscape is shifting quickly in both provinces.

Some tips and stories from Sheena Keslick on growing up and career path.

There are many factors that influence the rate of interest a person or corporation pays on its debt. These range from a review of macroeconomics, social, and political issues to micro issues reviewing the person or corporation's ability to repay the debt. Let's review a few factors which influence interest rates.

Yoga is a gift to the universe. A physical, mental, and spiritual gift to humanity that has existed in a variety of forms for over 5,000 years. However, much of its modern origin can be traced back to the Gupta Dynasty of ancient India.

Life and questions with Mainstreet Equity COO Johnny Lam. Learn how Mainstreets COO lives his life and how he deals with the stress of being the company, Chief Operating Officer.

Short selling is a technique used by investors to try to profit from the falling price of a stock. As such, short selling is typically used when an investor believes a stock is overvalued or there is an upcoming event that will trigger a substantial decline in the stock price. An investor may also deploy this technique as a way to hedge overall portfolio risk or balance the risk of one investment relative to another.

One way to invest in Real Estate is through the Stock Market. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and Real Estate Operating Companies (REOCs) are increasingly becoming a larger part of the TSX. This is occurring for several reasons but includes an aging demographic looking for income from a relatively stable source such as real estate.

Mainstreet has built its business model around a strategic counter-cyclical investment strategy. Learn how proper acquisitions create value and have helped lead to Mainstreet's success.

As a publicly-traded company, investor relations is an integral part of Mainstreet's strategy. Ensuring current shareholders, prospective investors and the analyst community are well-informed and engaged with the company is essential to maximizing value for all shareholders. Mainstreet undertakes several initiatives to ensure its investor relations strategy is being optimized.

Welcome to the Mainstreet Equity Blog. We're excited to start sharing with you the insights and expertise that Mainstreet has gained over the many years as leaders in the Western Canadian apartment industry.