Check the corridor and lift situation. If it’s a common corridor, people pass right by your door or window, affecting privacy. Corner units are quieter. Also see if the lift stops on your floor (some older blocks don’t), as you might need to take stairs if not.
Having a private attached bathroom is convenient – no sharing with others. You can use it anytime without waiting. However, you’ll be responsible for keeping it clean (there’s no one else using it). Check that the ensuite has good ventilation or a fan, since moisture can build up. Ensure the drainage slope, water pressure and hot water in the shower are good when you inspect. Overall, an ensuite adds comfort and privacy, but comes with the task of sole upkeep.
Condos have by-laws residents must follow. Common rules cover noise (quiet hours), visitor sign-ins, proper garbage disposal, and use of shared facilities. Ask your landlord about any specific condo rules. Abiding by them will keep you out of trouble with management and neighbors.
A master bedroom (with an attached bathroom) is ideal if you value extra space and privacy. It’s great for couples or individuals who want more room and their own bathroom. You get a larger area to yourself, which is nice if you work from your room or just like having a private bathroom and more storage. If your budget allows and you prefer not to share a bathroom, a master bedroom is a good choice.
Usually, yes. Many 4-bedroom homes have at least 3 bathrooms (e.g., an en-suite master bath plus one or two other full bathrooms). That gives a big family multiple toilets/showers to use, reducing wait times. It’s good to check the exact count, but typically a 4-bedder is designed with enough bathrooms. You should have far fewer queues than in a smaller unit.
Consider your work-from-home needs versus how often you have guests. A dedicated office provides better work-life separation and productivity, while a guest room offers hosting flexibility. Some people use convertible furniture to serve both purposes, though this requires more setup and organization.
Save the signed agreement, inventory, payment receipts, and all maintenance chats. Store dated photos of existing defects and meter readings. Keeping a single folder prevents disputes and speeds up deposit discussions at the end.
Make sure all friends are named on the lease so everyone is equally responsible. Agree clearly on how to split rent and bills, and set basic house rules early on to avoid misunderstandings. Also decide what happens if someone moves out before the lease ends, since you’re all responsible together.