British Columbia is a province on the west coast of Canada. Stretched along the shores of the Pacific Ocean, this province is the westernmost province in Canada.  Sharing a border with the province of Alberta and the Yukon territories and the states of Washington and Montana; the mild climate has made this province a favorite for visitors and residents alike.

The coastal mountains and the several inlets of the Inside Passage afford some of the spectacular scenery in the world!  This Province is known for its beautiful landscapes which drive the outdoor and ecotourism industries. Most parts are mountainous, but the province is still home to many protected areas and parks, ecological reserves, marine parks, heritage sites, national parks and many other historical sites.  Some of the most famous parks in the province include the Glacier National Park, Gulf Islands National Park Reserve and Yoho National Park.  The economy is supported by the forestry and mining industries and plays host to the film industry as many production companies film major motion pictures. 

If you are a young person considering a move to British Columbia, be it for work or studies, you will have a variety of places to choose from at all price points.  You will be able to find affordable studio lofts, 1 or 2 bedroom apartments for rent as well as condos and rooms for rent across the province.  Places rented are generally in good condition and are well-maintained by professional management companies. Complexes are known for their good security and many modern features and amenities.

Cost of living

The cost of living in British Columbia is among the highest in the world!  The mild climate, waterfront shores and stable economy attract tourists and new residents willing to pay great sums of money for a limited supply of real estate, making renting a bit of a difficult and expensive endeavor. Common living expenses, such as groceries and everyday household items are also more expensive here than in other parts of Canada.  If you are considering moving here, expect to pay a healthy premium as compared to what you’re currently paying.  

Negotiate Your Rent

Most people think that you cannot settle for a cut in the rental price. You can ask your prospective landlord to reduce the rental price.  However, if the local area rental market is moving fast, you may not be able to secure a lower rental price. If the local market is moving slowly, try to ask for a price reduction.  You just show the landlord that you are serious and ready to rent. It is advisable to negotiate the cost of the rent before leasing, as it will be infinitely more difficult to negotiate for a rental price reduction after signing a lease.

Publish Your Renting History

Provide any form of financial or previous rental material that shows you pay your rent on time and in full. Many landlords do not like the nightmare of eviction proceedings. Getting recommendation letters from previous landlords can help you qualify for an apartment and will cast you in a much more preferred light if a landlord is considering multiple tenants.  

Ask What Can Be Changed Before You Move In

We tend to think of the rentals as our own after paying the rent. You can end up making significant changes without inquiring first. It is nice to ask for permission if you wish to paint, upgrade fixtures, or want to make minor changes. You can end up in losing your damage deposit or your place altogether if you make unapproved changes.  The best course of action is to speak with your landlord and ask for permission before starting any renovation projects.

Visit in Person Before Signing Any Lease Documents

Visiting rentals needs to be done in person. Although you may receive very qualified expertise from a local professional, there is no substitute for seeing the place for yourself.  Viewing a property before renting it will go a long way in preventing you from being scammed and will add a layer of trust between yourself and your potential landlord from the very beginning.

Get All Terms and Conditions in Writing

Never shake hands to seal a deal. In case anything goes wrong, courts will uphold what’s been written down and signed by both parties. Most landlords will appreciate contract terms in writing as it provides them an extra layer of security in the event of a tenancy dispute.  Tenants also benefit from having a detailed lease agreement that clearly and concisely spells out the terms of their tenancy.