Questions about renting a condo in downtown Calgary

[tvp2003]

Any thoughts as to what is a reasonable rent to pay for a 2 bedroom condo in downtown Calgary? I realize it may vary (on one end, those sketchy high-rise rental buildings; on the other end, the “luxury” furnished suites), but we’re just looking for something reasonable, clean, and (relatively) quiet.

I’ve seen some listings on kijiji, rentfaster, etc. in the $1500 to $1800 range and up (including an underground parking spot and ensuite washer and dryer). Is this pretty much the going rate? Is it pretty easy to find a decent place these days, or do they get snatched up pretty quickly?

Thanks

[Bill Bumface]

I would say $1500 plus for anything decent as I know people paying $1400 for a one bedroom 10 minutes from downtown.

[Rutuu]

Lived in London House 2bedroom for $1400/mo. it was an ok place but kind of a sh*tty building.

Also lived in a 2bedroom/2bathroom in Axxis for $1400/mo. I loved that building. Concrete between the units made it so you couldn't hear a thing. Nice place too.

Look around and you'll find a good deal. Low ball guys renting places out. Missing a month of rent for someone who bought the property as an "investment" will take them months to recupe with a higher rate, so there may be some guys worried about their mortgage payments.

[Rutuu]

Oh yeah...in general the crappier the place the more likely they are to keep your damage deposit, so build that into your budget.

[Ducay]

Stay out of the Pointe of View buildings (Tarjan, Discovery, Riverfront, Vantage, West Pointe etc); they're basically soviet apartment blocks (in quality and finishings). You'll want to hang yourself after 10 minutes of being in one of those buildings.

[Knut]

My place in mission is rented at $1500. That is on the low end for the area. So I would say 1500 to 1800 is about right downtown.

Thinks to make sure of as well is if parking is included and what utilities you are responsible for.