8/6/2019 From Residence to Roommates
1/2
> Monday, May 30, 2011 > News > From Residence to
roommates
From Residence to roommates
Jaymin ProulxInterrobangClick here to read more Interrobang
articles written by Jaymin Proulx
Published: Monday, May 30, 2011
When the last day of exams is over, initial feelings of
excitement and relief mix together. However, the next underlying
worry is pressure to find accommodation
in the summer or fall.
Fanshawe operates The Off-Campus Housing Service in F2010. They
have copies of the Renting in London guide available at the office,
and have posted it online at
www.fanshawec.ca/housing.
What can I afford?Renting in London suggests you need to know
how much rent you can afford and when your income will be available
(i.e. summer income, OSAP, bursaries, parttime income or any time
of government assistance). Rent for apartments can include
utilities (heater, hydro, water, telephone, cable, and internet) or
the utilities can be added on top of the rent for the month. In, an
"inclusive" rent, you can use as much water and electricity as you
want for a flat amount that does not change month to month.
Glenn Matthews, Housing Mediation Officer for Fanshawe and
U.W.O. students, reassured students who fear they will not be able
to find a place to live. "London has one of the highest vacancy
rates in the province, so there are a lot of houses available in
the city. Houses closest to Fanshawe will be more expensive and the
first to go. There is a premium for houses closest to school."
Rental rates vary depending on the size and location of the
residence. "Most bachelor apartments are $535 inclusive; a
one-bedroom is $650 plus utilities; and a
two-bedroom apartment is $940 plus utilities. Living in a
two-bedroom house will be cheaper than living in a one-bedroom
apartment because you are sharing theutilities," Matthews
added.
Should I live with roommates?Living with roommates can be
rewarding, but you need to discuss potential problems with your
roommates before they occur. Set out guidelines: who washes the
dis
hes each night, who cleans the bathroom each weekend or who will
manage the bills each month. It's also important to discuss other
rental aspects like chores, personal property, privacy, etc.
Communication and respect are important when you
live with people and to prevent fights or court battles over
unpaid bills.
Matthews has been very involved with helping students solve
housing disputes, especially issues involving money, guests or
personal property.
What am I looking for in accomodations?Newspapers like the
London Free Press or Metro are good sources for apartment listings.
Websites like kijiji, Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace are great
for students looking for roommates.
When looking for a place to live, visit the area and think about
the buses you will take to get to school. If you will have a
vehicle, think about how much time
are you willing to drive back and forth.
