Apartments for Rent in Grande Prairie

The city of Grande Prairie is in the northwest of Alberta and is approximately 450 kilometers away (about a 4.5-hour drive) from the province’s capital city of Edmonton. There are many apartments for rent in the city and are available at all price points. The abundant supply of good quality place for rent has attracted many from the millennial generation looking for affordable homes as well as working professionals and growing families in need of larger living space at a fraction of the cost as compared to major cities like Calgary and Edmonton.

Living in Grande Prairie is a paradise for those seeking an active outdoor lifestyle.  Many open green-spaces, parks and golf courses have all made the community a very desirable place to live.  Part of the Peace River Country, which is mainly an agricultural area, the city is known to have a mild climate with longer summers attracting many vacationers seeking memorable camping trips and family getaways. There are cultural arenas available like the Bowes Family Crystal Center, the Grande Prairie Museum and theatrical productions that have created an arts and cultural scene uncharacteristically strong in the province of Alberta and is engaging with many young people from across the province. 

The cost of living in Grande Prairie is in line with expectation of a city of this size.  There are many reasonably priced location for rent in area and a good number of high-paying jobs making for a balanced and stable economy. Those considering moving up north are going to enjoy a high standard of living and can reasonably expect to save on the cost of everyday household items affording residents plenty of discretionary spending money and retirement savings.

Complexes in the city are known to be in good-condition and reasonably priced.  That said, tenants considering a move up north are encouraged to keep the following points in mind during their search:

Research and Budget Appropriately

Set a limit on how much money you’re willing to spend each month on rent.  As a guide, your monthly rent should be less than half of your after-tax net income. While it is exciting and fun to scour online listings of multi-million dollar homes and luxury apartments, focus your rental efforts on places you can afford. Use your monthly budget as a guide, reference multiple locations for rent and conduct comparisons before making any decisions.  Pay special attention to additional costs such as parking and utilities which will add to your monthly cost base and need to be budgeted for accordingly.  Before signing a lease on any rental unit make sure you fully-understand your financial obligations and that you can afford the rent, in its entirety, each month.  

Carefully Read All Lease Documents

While some renters give a high-level read of the main points of their lease agreement, it is in your best interest to give it a complete read and pay attention to all the terms and conditions. Make sure you understand and agree to all the terms before signing the lease.  If you are unclear on certain language or the definition of any term, ask the landlord to clarify it for you and get their clarification in writing. Note any comments regarding fees and pet policies.  

Inspect The Unit Before Moving In

You have a right to inspect your new home and request that any existing issues be resolved prior to your taking possession of the property.  Remember, once you move in and begin living in the space you are responsible for the upkeep of the property so it is in your best interest to have the space in good condition from day one.

Prepare Rental Documents In Advance Of Viewing Place For Rent

Rental space is in high-demand in the city.  When you see a place that meets your wish list of modern finishes and fun features and amenities, act quickly by submitting a complete and comprehensive rental application flush with references and other relevant documentation.  Having your files prepared and ready to present to landlords will cast you in a positive light when being considered as a tenant by the landlord and will increase the likelihood of you securing a home.