You’ve found a place that looks like it could work. It’s got decent photos, the rent’s in your budget, and the location seems fine on the map. Tempting, right?
But here’s the thing: there’s a long list of details that often get overlooked when people hunt for an apartment. And these details? They’re the difference between loving where you live and counting down the days till your lease ends.
Let’s talk about what really matters when renting an apartment. Not just the square footage and the view, but the small, hidden things that can make or break your living experience.
Go Beyond the Basics
Most listings highlight the obvious: the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and whether there’s parking. But that’s just surface-level. To make a smart choice when looking at apartments for rent in Ottawa or any other city, it’s worth going beyond the basics during your visit.
Before you even get to the viewing, think about how you actually live. What’s non-negotiable for your daily comfort? What’s been a problem in past places? If you’ve never taken the time to reflect on that, now’s the moment.
Pay Attention to Natural Light
Light changes everything. An apartment that gets good natural light will feel warmer, more open, and more comfortable to live in. It can also help cut down on your electricity use during the day.
When you’re walking through the space, notice where the windows are and how the light moves through the rooms. South-facing windows usually get the most consistent daylight, while north-facing ones can feel a bit dimmer. If there’s a large building next door, that could block light at certain times of day, even if the apartment itself has big windows.
Try to view the unit at a time that matches when you’ll actually be home. Morning viewings can make a place seem brighter than it really is if you’re rarely there before sunset.
Think About the Neighbourhood in Practical Terms
A good neighbourhood means different things to different people. Don’t just go by general reputation. Instead, think about what you actually need nearby.
Ask yourself: how easy is it to grab groceries? Is there a reliable transit option if you don’t drive? Will the local spots you like to visit be walkable, or are they a hassle to get to?
If you have time, swing by at a couple of different times; once in the day, and once at night. That gives you a better sense of how the area feels in real life, not just on paper.
Test the Water and the Power
Small things like weak water pressure or awkward power outlets can quickly become daily annoyances. During the viewing, it’s worth doing a few simple checks.
Turn on the taps in both the kitchen and bathroom. Notice how quickly hot water comes through and whether the pressure feels consistent. Try the shower too, if possible. A poor shower might seem like a small issue, but it’s the kind of thing that wears thin fast.
Glance around for plug sockets. Are there enough? Are they where you’d naturally want to set up a desk, TV, or bedside lamp? Sometimes, a great-looking space is frustrating to use simply because it wasn’t designed with everyday living in mind.
Storage Space: Look Closely
A room might look big, but if there’s nowhere to put your stuff, it’ll get cluttered fast. Storage is one of those things that’s often underplayed in listings, but it makes a huge difference once you’re settled in.
Open every cupboard and built-in wardrobe. Take note of how deep the shelves are and whether there’s any hidden storage, like above closets or under counters. Look in the bathroom and kitchen too. Are there drawers for smaller items, or just big empty spaces?
If you already own bulky things like a vacuum, sports equipment, or seasonal clothes, mentally walk through where they’d go. If there’s no clear spot, that’s a flag worth considering.
Don’t Ignore Noise Levels
Some noise is inevitable in apartment living, but there’s a big difference between occasional background sounds and constant disruption.
Pause during the viewing and just listen. Can you hear footsteps from the unit above? Is traffic noticeable with the windows closed? Are there construction sites or train lines nearby?
Also, consider what’s outside the building. A ground-floor unit beside the garbage bins or loading area will come with a very different noise profile than one tucked at the back on a higher floor.
Understand What You’re Actually Signing
Lease agreements aren’t all the same. Some are simple and clear, others are packed with fine print you’ll want to read closely. Before you commit, check a few key things.
Make sure you understand how long the lease lasts and what happens if you need to leave early. See if there are any rules about renewing, whether rent can go up, and by how much. Look at the conditions around maintenance; will the landlord handle small repairs, or are you expected to?
It’s also a good idea to clarify any policies around guests, painting walls, hanging shelves, or keeping a pet, even if you don’t have one yet.
How Does the Space Feel?
This one’s not technical, but it matters. Try to picture yourself actually living in the apartment. Is there enough space to move comfortably? Can you imagine working, relaxing, cooking, and sleeping without feeling boxed in?
Some apartments feel functional but cold. Others might be older or smaller, but have a layout that just works. Don’t ignore that gut feeling.
It’s easy to get caught up in checking all the logical boxes, but how you feel in a space counts too.
Ready for the Keys?
It’s easy to rush into a lease when you’re stressed, tired of searching, or just over it. But this isn’t just a financial decision; it’s your home.
Take a beat. Think it through. Go back for a second viewing if needed. Sleep on it. Because the goal isn’t just to rent a place. It’s to find one you’ll be happy to come home to every day.