Apartment for Rent in Halifax

Halifax, NS is among the most picturesque places on earth.  Located along the eastern shore of the province of Nova Scotia, the city attracts thousands upon thousands of tourists each year.  With expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean, lush forests and plenty of open spaces, the city brings tourists, students, retirees and working professionals from around the world.  Home to many accredited post-secondary institutions including Dalhousie University and Saint Mary’s University, the city of Halifax is known for its diverse culture which is primarily comprised of thousands of students from all around the world.  Those seeking cheap apartments and rooms for rent while attending university are sure to find many qualified complexes offering a range of modern finishes and many features and amenities.  

The cost of living in Halifax is low, especially considering the high quality of life that area residents enjoy throughout the year.  There is an increasing supply of higher-paying full time jobs in the financial and business services sectors, but many area residents work in tourism or tourism related capacities such as restaurants and hotels. 

Thanks to a significant student population, groceries and other everyday items are priced to market making them affordable for renters in all price brackets.  If you are considering renting in the community, prospective tenants are encouraged to budget a little extra for meals and entertainment expenses as the city has an active and vibrant nightlife which can offset the low cost of rent enjoyed by those renting across the city.

The Area

Spend some time researching the city and identifying certain areas that are likely to dovetail your way of life. If you enjoy having lunch in the park or long walks with your dog, place emphasis on locations near green spaces or with direct access to walking trails and paths.  Students are well-advised to focus on areas of the city that are near campus.  Working professionals are encouraged to focus their search on the downtown core.  Having chosen a couple preferred areas in the city, now begin your search and find the home for rent of your dreams!

Consider Pet Policies

If you have a pet or if you are seriously considering getting a new pet, it is in your best interest to inform the landlord as early as reasonably possible.  Landlords are generally accommodating with regards to pets, but some landlords will limit the size of the animal permitted in your building. Knowing your rights, as defined in your lease agreement, will also help you to make a smart decision when bringing a pet into your home.  Some landlords will charge a pet fee so it is best to make sure to budget accordingly.  Unfortunately for those with a pet, the number of potential locations for rent in Halifax is reduced as some Halifax rentals will not allow pets.

Meet and Speak with The Landlord

Moving into a new rental is an exciting time, but it is important that prospective tenants take measures to ensure their own safety.  Insist on meeting with the landlord in person.  Phone and email correspondence is perfectly reasonable when negotiating the terms of the lease, but insist on a personal showing as a way of proving they have ownership of the unit and to develop your relationship as early as possible so that you have a healthy rental environment.