So what is the best time to look for an apartment? The best days are in the first four to five days of the month – the earlier the better, and here are the reasons why.
SUPPLY AND DEMAND
On the simple basis of supply and demand, these first days of the month provide the best selection and largest amount of suites available. Landlords usually rent on a first come first serve basis so being there sooner than everyone else gives you the best chance of finding that perfect apartment. Existing tenants have to provide 30 days written notice on or before the last day of the month so in the first days of the month, the building managers will be aware of exactly what is coming up for availability on top of anything that is currently vacant. With more suites available this gives you the chance to find the best suite for the money you can afford and not having to settle for less due to the urgency to move.
THE LOGISTICS OF MOVING
If you find a place this early in the month you will also have a much easier time reserving a U-haul, arranging with friends to help and booking with professional moving companies if you choose to use one.
Should you need a day off from work most places of employment prefer if you give them as much advance notice as possible giving you the chance not to have to try to move after work in the dark.
SERVICES
Having a place all lined up early in the month will also result in being able to have all your services such as cable, hydro, phone and internet hooked up for your day of move-in instead of having to go without until the next available appointment after they are booked up with the early renters.
PERSONAL WELL-BEING (aka STRESS REDUCTION)
With everything, above-taken care of so early in the month just think about how much less stressful your move will be and we all know moving can be very stressful in the best of conditions, never mind if you waited until later in the month. So be smart and apartment search early… and be happy.
With all these benefits on the table, it will not get any better than in those first few days so good luck and happy renting!
Mainstreet Equity Corp. is a publicly-traded (TSX: MEQ) residential real estate company in Canada. Mainstreet currently owns and operates properties in Surrey, BC; New Westminster, BC; Abbotsford, BC; Calgary, AB; Cochrane, AB; Lethbridge, AB; Edmonton, AB; Fort Saskatchewan, AB; and Saskatoon, SK. Mainstreet provides affordable, renovated apartment suites to Canadians, and is committed to creating real value without diluting shareholder interests.