So, you’ve picked your roommates and decided to live off campus in Montreal – now comes the fun (and sometimes overwhelming) part: finding your apartment. Whether you’re attending McGill, Concordia, or UQAM, this guide breaks down everything you need to know to find a place that fits your budget, your schedule, and your lifestyle.
Start With a List: Set Your Criteria
Before you fall in love with a listing, know what you’re looking for. Base criteria will help you quickly filter out apartments that won’t work. Ask yourself:
- What’s my monthly budget? Consider rent, utilities, transportation, and food
- How many bedrooms do we need? Factor in the size, layout, and storage
- Is the location right? Think beyond price – sure, a less expensive place 30 minutes away may look great on paper, but how often will you skip class? For students, your education is the biggest investment – where you live should reflect that.
- Do I want it furnished? A lot of student apartments in Montreal come fully furnished, saving you the stress (and cost) of buying furniture
Time to Drive In: How to Search as a Student
There’s no “best” website or resource for student housing – every platform has hidden gems. Use multiple sources to maximize your options:
Pro Tip: Join Facebook groups like “Montreal Student Housing Group” to catch listings before they reach the mainstream websites.
Don’t Just Look – Reach Out
Once you’ve found a few promising listings, it’s time to contact landlords. Use a simple message like:
“Hi, my name is [Name], and I’m a student at [McGill/Concordia/UQAM]. I’m interested in your apartment at [Address], and I’d like to know if it’s available for lease starting at [Date]. I’d also love to schedule a viewing. Thanks!”
Don’t overthink it – send messages in batches to boost your chances. The more you inquire, the more likely you’ll find a great fit.
Virtual Tours and Red Flags
Be careful agreeing to a lease without seeing the apartment. If you’re not in Montreal yet, request a virtual tour or video walkthrough. This also gives you a chance to assess:
- Landlord responsiveness
- Building condition
- Realistic size and layout of the apartment
Some listings might look perfect on paper but feel totally different once you see them in real life – or in this case on screen.