Finding the perfect apartment for rent in London, Ontario, can be daunting, especially with the diverse options available. However, you don’t need to figure everything out from scratch — our tips can help you navigate the London market.

We put together some crucial tips to help you find your dream apartment, whether you're a student looking for housing near your university, a young professional seeking a vibrant neighbourhood, or a family searching for a comfortable home. 

These essential tips will help you navigate the rental market in London and secure your ideal apartment. So, let’s explore our key tips to help you find your perfect apartment.

Understanding the Rental Market in London, Ontario

Before diving into the search for rentals in London, it's important to familiarize yourself with the local rental market. Evaluating a high-level view helps you take the first steps toward narrowing the options.

London offers a range of rental options, from downtown high-rise apartments to suburban townhouses. The city's rental market is dynamic, with varying prices and availability depending on the neighbourhood and type of apartment.

Understanding your needs, budget, and preferences lays the groundwork for navigating the vibrant rental market in London.

Tips for Finding the Right Rentals in London for Your Needs

Finding the perfect apartment for your needs and preferences can take some time, but moving into your ideal apartment makes it all worth the effort. 

Fortunately, you don’t have to start from square one — we’ve got you covered with some important tips to help sort through listings and hone in on your perfect rental.

Research Neighbourhoods

London is known for its diverse neighbourhoods, each offering unique characteristics and amenities. Some of the popular neighbourhoods in the city include the following:

• Downtown London: The bustling heart of the city, Downtown London offers a mix of commercial, cultural, and entertainment venues, including Covent Garden Market and Budweiser Gardens.
• Old North: Known for its beautiful heritage homes and tree-lined streets, Old North is a historic neighbourhood that exudes charm and character. This neighbourhood contains the popular Doidge Park and is fairly close to St. Joseph’s hospital. It’s also home to the North London Athletic Fields and Ross Park.
• Old South (Wortley Village): This vibrant area is celebrated for its eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes, and community events, often cited as one of the best neighbourhoods in Canada. This neighbourhood contains no shortage of schools, the Landon Branch Library, a YMCA, and has connections to the Thames Valley Parkway.
• Westmount: A primarily residential neighbourhood, Westmount features a variety of shopping centres, parks, and schools, making it a popular choice for families. It’s also home to parks like Jesse Davidson Park, Basil Grover Park, Southwest Optimist Park, and many soccer fields and baseball fields.
• Byron: Located near the Thames River, Byron boasts scenic parks, trails, and a tight-knit community feel, with Springbank Park being a notable highlight. Byron is also home to Storybook Gardens and five elementary schools.
• Masonville: Home to the popular CF Masonville Place shopping mall, this neighbourhood offers a blend of residential areas, retail outlets, and dining options. Carriage Hill Park is the main park in this neighbourhood. Meanwhile, it also is home to St. Kateri Catholic School, Stoneybrook Public School, A.B. Lucas, and Mother Teresa.
• Argyle: Known for its affordability and diverse population, Argyle provides a mix of residential and commercial spaces, including the East Lions Park and Argyle Mall. Major parks include the Kiwanis Park and East Lions. This neighbourhood is also home to the Argyle Arena, Family Centre Argyle, and even contains the Pottersburg-FIDO Off-leash Area. 
• Hyde Park: A rapidly growing suburban area in London’s northwest. Hyde Park features new residential developments, shopping centres, and amenities catering to young families and professionals. The main parks in Hyde Park include Maple Grove, Coronation North, and Cantebury Park.
• Oakridge: This established neighbourhood offers a mix of older and newer homes, ample green spaces, and convenient access to schools and recreational facilities. This neighbourhood’s main park is Oakridge Optimist, which is home to an outdoor pool, splash pad, baseball fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, and a newly renovated arena. You’ll also find the Thames Valley Golf Course here.
• Uplands: A newer residential area in the north, Uplands is known for its modern homes, family-friendly atmosphere, and proximity to parks and trails. Popular parks in this neighbourhood include Heron Haven, Northbrook, and Virginia. Nearby schools include Jack Chambers Public, St. Kateri, and St. Catherine of Siena.

Researching these neighbourhoods further will help you identify which area aligns best with your lifestyle.

Set a Budget

Setting a budget is a crucial step in your apartment search. Consider your monthly income, expenses, and additional costs such as utilities, parking, and internet. Keep groceries and your other existing bills in mind as well.

Be realistic about what you can afford to avoid financial strain. Generally, it's recommended that your rent should not exceed 30% of your monthly income. Some property owners require proof of income that indicates you meet income requirements based on this rule.

Determine Your Must-Haves

Before you start searching for an apartment for rent in London, make a list of your must-haves. 

Having a clear list of priorities will help you narrow your options and find an apartment that meets your needs, such as:

• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
• Proximity to work or school
• Access to public transportation
• Parking availability
• Pet-friendliness
• Amenities such as laundry facilities, fitness centres, and outdoor spaces

Write down your must-haves, which you may need to expand as you look at apartments. Having a physical list, or one on your phone, can make sure you remember all the factors you’ll need to consider.

Leverage Online Resources

There are several valuable resources for finding apartments in London and learning more about specific neighbourhoods. Sites like AreaVibes can help you drill down into a range of statistics related to specific areas, from crime to economics.

The neighbourhood you choose is just as important as the specific apartment, so take the time to investigate each prospective area before making your decision. 

Visit Apartments in Person

While online listings provide a good starting point, visiting apartments in person is essential before deciding. Schedule viewings to see the apartment's condition, layout, and surrounding neighbourhood firsthand. Pay attention to details such as natural light, noise levels, and the property's overall maintenance.

During your apartment viewings, don't hesitate to ask questions. Ask about lease terms, utilities, maintenance procedures, and additional fees. Understanding the terms and conditions of your lease will help you avoid surprises later on.

If you’re moving from another city or province, it may be worth taking a weekend trip to view several properties to help make your decision. Signing a lease before seeing an apartment in person should be a last resort.

Consider Student Housing in London

For students, finding the right housing near Western University, or Fanshawe College is crucial and will affect your time in school. London offers various student housing options, including on-campus residences, off-campus private apartments, and shared houses.

On-campus residences provide convenience and a built-in community, while private apartments and shared houses offer more independence and flexibility. Making your decision is one of the first steps to getting into university after acceptance.

Let SPM Help You Find the Perfect Place

Finding the perfect apartment in London, Ontario requires careful planning and research. You can confidently navigate the apartment search process by understanding the rental market, setting a budget, and prioritizing your needs. 

Leverage online resources, visit apartments in person, and ask questions to ensure you find a comfortable and convenient place to call home. These essential tips will help you find the ideal apartment that meets your lifestyle and preferences, whether you’re a student, professional, or family.

SPM is a leading property management company with dozens of listings to consider. We can also help you navigate the overall market to hone in on your perfect apartment. Ready to get started finding your dream apartment? Reach out to us today to speak with an expert in London, Ontario rentals.