Whether it’s your first time looking for an apartment rental or the 10th, it’ll always be a stressful process. It starts with finding out your budget and preferred neighbourhoods and deciding if you want to live alone or with roommates. In Kingston, you’ll find a variety of options, including studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom apartments, with newer buildings offering more amenities. In this blog, we’ll give some easy tips to remember when finding your dream apartment in Kingston. Let’s talk more…
Here are 6 tips for finding the perfect apartment in Kingston:
Think About What You Really Need
Are you looking for a cosy studio or a two-bedroom space with room to spread out? Will you be living alone or with your family? Then, make a list of amenities you’ll need, including in-unit laundry or underground parking. You’ll find everything from modern buildings to charming older homes in Kingston. Modern buildings offer better amenities but come with higher rent, while older homes provide extra space and are lower in rent.
Check for Student and New Grad Discounts
If you’re a student or just finished school, you might score some discounts on rent. Many landlords and apartment rentals in Kingston offer deals like discounted rent, free 12 months of internet, or free parking to students. You can also check with your school’s housing office for these specific discounts. Even if it’s not advertised, a quick conversation with the landlord could save you some money.
Set a Practical Budget
A good rule of thumb is to keep rent under 30% of your monthly income. But let’s be honest, you’ll probably be spending up to 60% on rent because of how expensive rent has gotten in these last few years. To keep it under 30%, look for flatmates. Don’t forget about extra costs like utilities, internet, and parking, which will add another $200 to your monthly expenses.
Understand the Cost of Rent
A one-bedroom apartment in Downtown Kingston might run you between $2,200 and $3,500 per month, while similar units in quieter neighbourhoods like Rideau Heights and Balsam Grove could be more affordable.
Start Looking Early
Kingston’s rental market gets the busiest during summer. That’s when you’ll have more options to choose from and apply for an early move-in. But that’s not the case during fall and winter. Start your search at least two months before you plan to move. Websites like Kijiji, RentBoard, and local Facebook groups are good starting points for your search.
Prioritise Must-Have Amenities
If you don’t have a car, being close to public transit becomes your top amenity. That also means, you’ll need a grocery store within walking distance. On the other hand, if you have kids, you should look at neighbourhoods with the best schools, parks and community centres, and doctors’ offices. Make a list of your must-haves and focus on apartments that meet those needs. It’s all about finding a place that fits your daily life, not just your budget.
Looking for an apartment rental in Kingston? Check out our current properties on rent by Barr Developments here.
