Student Housing Options

Royal Metro College > Student Housing Options

Student Housing Options (Housing Assistance)

Royal Metro College does not provide on-campus housing. However, we are committed to supporting students in finding safe, suitable, and affordable accommodation in the local community. This information is made available to prospective and current students before enrolment, upon arrival, and throughout their studies.

Students are encouraged to begin their housing search early and to carefully review all rental arrangements before making any payments or signing agreements. For general guidance, please contact Student Services at studentservices@royalmetro.ca.

Quick Contacts

1) Common Housing Types

  • Homestay – Live with a local host family; often includes furnished room and some meals. Good for newcomers who want language practice and local support.
  • Shared Apartment/House – Rent a bedroom and share kitchen, bathroom, and utilities with roommates. Usually the best value for cost.
  • Apartment and House Rentals
    • Private Suite/Basement Suite – A self-contained unit (often furnished), sometimes attached to a house.
    • Studio/1-Bedroom Apartment – Entire place to yourself; higher privacy and cost.
  • Short-Term Rentals – For students who need temporary accommodation while looking for a long-term place.

Tip: New students often choose Short-Term housing for 2–4 weeks first, then sign a long-term lease after viewing options in person.

2) Typical Costs (Examples Only – verify current market)

Actual prices vary by the neighbourhood, building age, furnishings, and season. Budget for rent, utilities, internet, and transit.

Option What it usually includes Typical monthly range*
Shared room / bedroom in a shared unit Furnished or partly furnished; shared kitchen/bath $700–$1,200
Private room in homestay Furnished + some meals (varies by host) $1,100–$1,600
Basement / private suite Furnished or unfurnished; separate entrance $1,400–$1,900
Studio / 1-bed apartment Private kitchen/bath; higher privacy $1,800–$2,600+

*Rates are based on recent market observations and may change; always confirm the current rate.

Other monthly costs to plan for:

  • Utilities: $50–$150 (depending on usage & number of roommates)
  • Internet: $40–$100 (plan/speed dependent)
  • Transit: Check current Compass Card rates; many students use monthly passes.
  • Renter’s insurance: ~$15–$30 (recommended)

3) Where and How to Search

*Students should contact providers directly to confirm availability, pricing, and services.

  • Apartment and House Rental listings platforms

*Students should bring a friend to viewings when possible and exercise caution and verify listings carefully before making any payments.

*Students should verify identity and exercise caution and verify listings carefully before making any payments.

  • Short-Term Rentals

Important: Royal Metro College does not place students in housing and has no affiliation with third-party platforms. Do your own due diligence before paying any fees.

4) Safety & Scam-Prevention Checklist

  • Never send money or copies of ID before you’ve verified the landlord/agent and viewed the unit (in person or live video).
  • Meet at the property and confirm the person has authority to rent it (ask for proof if unsure).
  • Avoid cash; use traceable payments; get a receipt.
  • Be cautious of “too good to be true” prices, pressure to decide immediately, or requests to wire money overseas.
  • Trust your instincts—if something feels off, walk away and seek advice at studentservices@royalmetro.ca.

5) Understanding Leases & Deposits

  • Read your lease fully before signing: rent amount, term (fixed vs. month-to-month), included utilities, rules on guests, subletting, etc.
  • Damage/Security deposit – Typically up to half a month’s rent (varies by law); get a receipt.
  • Condition inspection – Do a move-in inspection with photos/videos and keep copies of the report.
  • Notice to end tenancy – Learn proper notice periods and penalties to avoid disputes.

6) Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

Students renting in British Columbia should understand their rights and responsibilities under provincial tenancy law. Information about tenancy rules, rental agreements, deposits, repairs, notice requirements, and dispute resolution is available from the Province of British Columbia.

For more information, please visit:

7) Roommates & House Rules

  • Agree on house rules in writing: quiet hours, cleaning, guests, shared purchases, bill-splitting, and how to handle damages.
  • Decide who sets up and pays for utilities & internet, and how reimbursements are tracked.

8) Move-In Essentials

  • Utilities & Internet: Ask the landlord what’s included; if not included, set up accounts before move-in.
  • Furniture: Many rentals are unfurnished—plan for a bed, desk, and kitchen basics.
  • Renter’s Insurance: Protects your belongings and liability—strongly recommended.

9) Accessibility & Special Considerations

  • If you require accessible housing (elevator, step-free entry, accessible bathroom), mention this early in your search.
  • For shorter leases (co-op terms, practicum), look for flexible terms or furnished options.

10) Need Help?

Disclaimer: Royal Metro College provides housing information for general guidance only. The College does not own, manage, or inspect third-party housing and does not endorse specific providers. Students are responsible for making their own housing arrangements and decisions.

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