Whether you're a first-time renter or a seasoned apartment dweller, it's worth taking the time to decide what's most important to you in where you live and to plan your search strategy accordingly. With that in mind, here are a few tips to consider:

Make a list of your top housing priorities:
Do you need extra parking spaces? A place that welcomes pets? A large kitchen or linen closet? A balcony or the ability to use a BBQ? Thinking through your needs ahead of time can help you find an apartment that meets those needs, instead of one that just strikes your fancy at first glance.

Check out the property:
In addition to examining the condition of the for-rent unit, walk through the property to see whether it appears to be well maintained. Is the landscaping healthy or dying? Nicely trimmed or growing wild? Are any windows, steps or railings broken or dangerous? Do the access doors open easily and shut tightly? How is the security on the building and the unit you are looking at? Walk through at night, too. Are the parking areas and pathways well lit? What about the stairwells and hallways?

Talk to the neighbors:
If you're serious about a particular apartment, knock on a few doors and ask your potential neighbors whether they're satisfied with the building's amenities, management's responsiveness to repair needs and other issues of concern to you. Ask: Would you tell a friend to move into this building?

Examine the lease:
A lease is a legal obligation to pay rent for a specified length of time, and every lease has variations on the terms and conditions of tenancy. It is normal to see 1 yr leases for most apartments in BC. Month to month means there is no lease per se, however if you move in less then 6 months you usually pay a penalty of around $250. How much notice must you give before moving at the end of the lease term? A full month, with notice given in writing, is customary. See if the rent be increased? Are pets allowed? What provisions cover your security deposit and end-of-lease cleaning costs?

Consider security:
Does the building have controlled access? If so, are the exterior security gates and doors closed? Are the locks in working order? Does your individual unit have secure door locks and window latches? Does the building have a security service? If so, what exactly is the service?

Ask about amenities:
Does the building have a swimming pool? A recreation or fitness room? Tennis courts? Laundry facilities? Who is allowed to use those facilities and during what hours? Is there an extra fee charged for use of the facilities? Where are the facilities located in relation to your prospective apartment? Do you really want to live poolside or near the laundry room?

Ask about utility costs:
'Heat and hot water' are usually included in the cost of most apartments. The Hydro (electrical), telephone and TV cable are generally not included in the rent price. Do you have your own thermostat? Who do you call if there are problems?

Take notes:
Before you move in, document the condition of your unit and make note of any nonfunctioning doors or windows, leaking plumbing, missing fixtures, stained carpets and so on. Ask your landlord to initial a copy of your documentation to prevent disputes when you eventually move out. Better yet, take pictures or make a video of the premises before you bring in any of your furniture or belongings.