Edmonton Renters Guide

Edmonton Edition

March 08 - 22, 2013 Volume 29 Issue 05

TOP 10

renters complaints

6621 - 96 St, Edmonton

Edmonton Edition

March 08 - 22, 2013 Volume 29 Issue 05

Front Cover

Feature

Vice-President, WAll2WAll mediA Jacqueline Hill editor in chief, reAl estAte Susan Legge nAtionAl Account mAnAger, mediAtiVe Paul Slizys director of sAles, Western cAnAdA Josh Heppner

TOP 10

mAnAger, nAtionAl business deVeloPment Katie Nash mediA consultAnts Carolyn Porteous (on leave), Shelley Balla editor Elisa Krovblit contributors Jane Herman, Gail Vaz-Oxlade senior Production mAnAger Gnanapandithan Bala Production mAnAger Nikki Yarwood Production coordinAtor Bala Menon Art director Lee Cobham design & Production Mike Terentiev, Swinder Jodhka circulAtion Michael Grey 780.822.5402

renters complaints

18 renters’ Help Top 10 renter issues Jane Herman

SeCtIonS 7 North Central

29 West

20 South Central

30 South East

23 North East

32 South West

24 Ft. Saskatchewan

34 Houses, Condos & Duplexes,

28 North West

Executive Homes

eDItorIaL FeatureS

DeaDline Date for VolUMe 29, iSSUe 06 iS Mar. 14, 2013 @ 4:00 pM Address: P.O. Box 458 Station Main, Edmonton, AB T5J 2K1 Tel: 587-784-4044 Email: shelley.balla@wall2wallmedia.com

Published by

22 Copyright covers the contents of this publication and prevents reproduction in whole or in part. Offenders will be prosecuted. We reserve the right to refuse any advertising, to make changes or edit advertising as necessary. Care will be taken to ensure copy accuracy but no warranty is implied or given by the publisher.

Wall2Wall Media is a trademark of Yellow Pages Group Co. in Canada homeTRADER and The homeTRADER & Design are trade-marks of Apax Partners LLP, used under license Disclaimer: The views expressed by the columnists in this publication are not necessarily those of the publication.

26 quick tips

22 Finding the right place finances

26 How credit cards calculate interest Gail Vaz-Oxlade

EDITORS’ NOTES

d

id you know that once you sign a lease and move into your new digs that an inspection is in order? Landlords cannot hold tenants responsible for normal wear and tear, however tenants are expected to fix damage such as stained broadloom and damaged walls or ceilings when they depart.

Since the question of who did the damage may come into play at some point during your occupancy, inspecting the condition of the premises on move-in day is a very important part of the rental process. Be thorough and document everything you notice. The tenant and the landlord should inspect the rental premises together. In some provinces, an inspection report is required by law. This should be a formalized process by which both the landlord and tenant end up with a signed agreement and both parties receive copies of the signed inspection sheet. During your inspection, you’ll review many aspects of the home. Be sure the safety features, such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, are included in the inspection too. It’s the law to have working detectors in the home. Be sure to keep them in working order during your stay by testing their operation regularly.

To protect yourself from unexpected expenses at the end of your term as a tenant, ask if a proper inspection process is part of the leasing agreement before you sign the agreement. Also be sure to go through the inspection process before you take occupancy of your new digs. Doing a formal inspection now could save you time and money in the future.

Susan Legge EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, homeTRADER susan.legge@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/SusanLegge

t

he fact is, it’s not an easy market for renters. There’s a lack of great rental opportunity. While condos continue to go up in rapid succession, new apartment buildings are few and far between. With a growing population, most major urban centres are finding the same bottom line, historically low vacancy rates. What does that mean for you? It means that there are less options and more competition.

When landlords and property managers have a vacancy they often have a waitlist to go to and multiple applications for a single apartment. If there’s a specific community you’d like to live in, it would be to your advantage to go in for a visit and get yourself on that waitlist. It may be word of mouth that helps you find that elusive vacancy – telling friends, classmates and colleagues that you’re apartment hunting may give you some leads that you’d otherwise never unearth. One of the best sources is a magazine – Renters Guide – where our long-standing relationship with landlords and property management companies brings the advertisement of availabilities, allowing you to zero in on available apartments in the right location, size and budget.

Low vacancy rates also mean that you’ve got to be prepared and have the appearance of a good tenant. Have your finances in order, references at the ready and your best foot forward when you go in. Be the perfect option.

With Renters Guide in hand you’ll find that perfect place. Our magazine and website, homeTRADER.ca, offer the best selection of available apartments as well as informative articles and advice, making it easy to make your move!

Elisa Krovblit EDITOR elisa.krovblit@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/ElisaKrovblit Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/TheRentersGuide

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MERIDIAN STREET (0 St.)

Levasseur Rd.

170 St.

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TakeFor a look at the market and see what’s there.

More Information onoutAdvertising, Please Vacancy rates are currently very low – and due to supply and demand, rent may be higher than the last time you looked around the market. Skim through apartments that are available and appeal to you to familiarize yourself with the market.e sure you have trader.ca Check out www.home

Gibbons

Call

28A

587-784-4044

For your online listings We’ve got your bases covered!

Calmar

LOOKING

FOR A NEW

APARTMENT? We think finding a home is a lot more than simply finding the right property.

That’s why we put you right in the middle of the search process.

Search your favorite neighbourhood

Find out about nearby services and amenities

View promotions and specials on rental apartments

Visit the new real estate section on canpages.ca and start looking for that special place.

Powered by

North Central Ki

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Av e

100 St.

102 Ave. Jasper Ave.

82 St.

CHECK OUT DAWSON BRIDGE

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www.homeTRADER.ca

For our online listings We’ve got your bases covered!

LOW LEVEL BRIDGE

100 Ave. Riv er Valley Rd.

97 Ave.

HIGH LEVEL BRIDGE 105 ST BRIDGE

JAMES McDONALD BRIDGE

North Saskatchewan River

DREAM LIVING...

A CONCEPT OF EDMONTON’S FUTURE

• Adult Building • Bright luxurious bachelor, 1 & 1 bdrm Two level & 2 bdrm suites • Sizes ranging from 729-1386 sq. ft.

• On site fitness club including: exercise room, jacuzzi & two squash courts

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• Free cable • Security system in each suite • All window coverings • 6 appliances includes washer & dryer • Each unit air conditioned

Edmonton’s High Rise Living At Its Best 9740 - 106 ST. Phone

448-0322

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• Breathtaking views • On-site corner store & Bistro • On-site office & staff for maintenance-free living

4543909_29/05

Victoria Park Rd.

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104 Ave.

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97 S

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.

Tell Them You Saw It In The “Renters Guide” • PAGE 7

n

NORTH CENTRAL

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Twin Rose Manor 1 & 2 BEDROOMS

• Upgraded unit • Incl. heat, water & parking • Excellent transit • Adult building

5160151_29/05

10320-122 Street

780-918-1352 www.ayreoxford.com

find: spacious

F I N D find your happy place.

PAGE 8 • Tell Them You Saw It In The “Renters Guide”

Y O U R

H A P P Y

P L A C E

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NORTH CENTRAL

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The Mayflower

4848163_2905

Prestigious River View Building

780-800-8966

www.GreatApartments.ca

At Home in a Great Community

• Free power, water, heat • Digital security access system • Swimming pool • Resident social room • Heated underground parking • Balconies • Hardwood floors • Concrete building • Professionally landscaped • Beautiful large suites • Stunning granite lobby • Sorry No Pets • Adult Overlooking the River Valley & Victoria Golf Course N

Jasper Ave.

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11808-100 Avenue

1 & 2 Bedrooms

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APARTMENTS

DOWNTOWN LOCATIONS – YORK HOUSE

10030-114 street

780-488-5151 Bright, Spacious Studio, 1 and 2 bdrms

1

B

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• Modern suites • Hardwood floors • Quiet, secure building

1

B

• Excellent downtown location • Covered & open parking • Sauna, exercise room • Heat, power and water included in rent • Adult building

1

• No pets allowed • Under new management

4

C

F

745

S – YOU’LL BE IMPRESSED...

THE ALBANY

10155 - 116 street • 780-488-6060

Bright, Spacious Studio, 1 and 2 Bdrms

2

• Newly renovated • Hardwood floors • Cover and open parking • Adult building • Sauna, exercise room, pool table, dart board • Excellent downtown location • Heat, power and water included in rent • Quiet, secure building • No Pets Allowed

HI-LEVEL PLACE

11005 - 98 Avenue • 780-482-3717

Bachelor, 1 and 2 Bedrooms

4

• Newly renovated • Hardwood floors • Redecorated suites • Video monitored • Adult building • Quiet, secure building • Exercise room, pool table • Excellent downtown location • No pets allowed

GLOUCESTER HOUSE

10513 - 124 street

1 and 2 bedrooms • Newly renovated • Adult building • Minutes to downtown and westend • Quiet, secure building

3

LANCASTER HOUSE

10025 - 115 street • 780-488-5151 Bright, Spacious Bachelor, 1 and 2 Bdrms

5

• Modern suites • Hardwood floors • Quiet, secure building • Adult building • Covered & open parking • No pets allowed • Excellent downtown location • Heat, power and water included in rent • Exercise room, pool table, dart board

CLOSE TO ALL AMENITIES, WE HAVE IT ALL!

For Your Private Appointment Please Call 74543536_29/05

n

NORTH CENTRAL

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Parklane Gardens 1 BEDROOMS

• Quiet, clean • Close to Kingsway Mall, NAIT & Downtown • Excellent transit • On-site manager 4758123_29/05

11530-124 Street

780-452-1862 115 Ave. & 124 St.

See it Here!

See It Here_24/24

www.ayreoxford.com

Advertise your Property for Rent

Secord House • Very Spacious • 1 & 2 bdrm suites • Downtown Location • Reasonable rents • No pets • Owner managed • Quiet adult building • We Care

Ph. (780)

4543893_29/05

10515 - 99 Avenue

F I N D

423-1302 or (780) 991-5777

PAGE 12 • Tell Them You Saw It In The “Renters Guide”

Y O U R

H A P P Y

P L A C E

In the heart of Edmonton’s downtown core.

all the right angles

onE and two bedroom suites... two bedrooms with two baths.

Luxurious adult living.

• 6 Appliances

Suite 105, 10404-104 Ave

587-400-5195

• Underground heated

• Window coverings • Cozy fireplace • 24 hour exercise room

parking available • Easy access to all amenities

4544100_2905

• Heat & water included

on-site management office hours: Mon, wed 8:00-7:00p.m. I tues, thurs & Fri 8:00-5:00 p.m. I Sat 10:00-6:00p.m.

a fresh perspective on downtown living Professionally owned & Managed By

YMCA of Edmonton

Featuring 150 bachelor, one- and two-bedroom suites, including some barrier-free units, the Melcor YMCA Village at 10350 95 Street is the perfect place to call home.

Affordable & safe quality living in downtown Edmonton!

The village offers a variety of other conveniences including: • All suites come with a stove, fridge, microwave and window coverings.

• Access to child care services and located near the bus, LRT and downtown core.

• Indoor & outdoor play areas, card-operated laundry, bicycle lockups and more!

For current suite rental rates or other information, please cal 780 426-YMCA (9622) or visit our website at edmonton.ymca.ca

Apply today!

MELCOR YMCA

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lamplighter apts.

Large 1 & 2 bedroom suites

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oliver

spectacular city views

heat & water included

• Newly renovated lobby and common areas • In-suite storage • Underground or outside parking available • Secure building w/upgrd security camera’s & FOB entry system • Wrap around balconies with spectacular view • Social room with sauna • SORRY NO PETS Professionally Managed By: Globe General Agencies Ltd.

10333 - 121 Street North Central

Call 587-400-5111

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NORTH CENTRAL

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Glendale Court

4543657_29/05

Families Welcome

• Renovated 1&2 bedRoom suites • • • • • •

2 appliances (fridge & stove) Quiet, well maintained building Covered & open free parking Large balconies Family complex Close to all amenities, schools & parks

Management Corp

9208 - 106 Ave

780-497-7964

Find it here!

Pick up a copy of the Home Renters Guide at Mac’s or Safeway every other Friday

I’M GONNA NEED A BIGGER PLACE!

F I N D

FIND YOUR HAPPY PLACE.

PAGE 16 • Tell Them You Saw It In The “Renters Guide”

Y O U R

H A P P Y

P L A C E

WALK TO WORK

FEATURES FEATURES • Bachelor, Studios, 1, and 2 Bedrooms • All Utilities Included • 3 blocks to Grant Macewan • Walking distance to all amenities • Air Conditioning • Ample Parking

Mon-Fri 8:30-4:30 Call for an Appointment

780.800.5062 10020 103 Ave

• Close to University of Alberta downtown campus, Farmer’s Market, LRT, City Centre Mall, Restaurants, Art Gallery of Alberta • No pets

4544670_29/05

renters’help

Top 10 Renter Issues

By Jane He rman

H

armonious living is all about treating others with respect and consideration. Start by making a concerted effort to avoid these ‘Top 10 Renter Issues.’ When you act with sensitivity to your neighbours, it’s amazing how others will respond.

1. Keep the noise down. Apartment walls are notoriously thin, and people have different sleeping schedules. Remember that many people work at night and might be sleeping when you are heading off to work!

Take off those clicking high heels at the door and don a pair of slippers at home. Likewise, please refrain from vacuuming, power tools or hanging pictures at 10pm.

Avoid exceedingly loud noise at all times, especially

arguing, playing music or watching the television at high volume. (Consider getting a pair of headphones for your home entertainment.) If you’re having a large crowd over, advise your neighbours.

2. The elevator is for everyone. Upon entering the elevator, if you see another resident running down the hall, (or an elderly resident who may not be able to get there that fast) do the right thing and hold it for them.

Likewise, don’t hold the elevator unnecessarily, like while you’re waiting for your spouse/roommate to put their coat on, lock the door, and walk all the way down the hall. You know how annoying it is to wait endlessly for the elevator – especially when you’re in a hurry. And if you have children, never let them play in the elevators (pushing all the buttons and then running out at their floor is not a game).

3. No Smoking. This should be obvious. If smoking is not allowed in your building or on the floor, don’t do it.

4. Consider the environment when cooking. This is one issue that can, unfortunately, be very invasive.

What smells delicious and appetizing to some can be, absolutely unappealing and overpowering to others.

When cooking – especially when it’s something aromatic – please open your window so that it doesn’t smell up the entire floor. This is especially important when you’ve burned something. There is nothing worse than emerging from the elevator and finding the hall filled with offensive smells.

5. Respect and maintain common areas as if they were an extension of your own home. They are, in fact, an extension of your own home. Encountering a pile of garbage in the trash room is particularly offensive.

Always put yours down the chute. And remember to tidy up after yourself in the laundry room, whether it’s used dryer sheets, spills of detergent near the washer or just your used coffee cup or empty water bottle. After using the barbecue, pool area or party room, take out all trash and leave as you found it.

6. Ensure that your pet is a good neighbour too.

To prevent accidents, walk your pet regularly, and stoop’n’scoop. Not is it only the right thing to do, it’s your

obligation. Also, make sure your pet isn’t disruptive to neighbours by howling all day or barking all night.

7. Be a model citizen in the parking lot. Keep the music down. Drive slowly and carefully, anticipating seniors and children. Don’t stop or leave your car idling where it will be in the way of others. Stick to your own parking space and make sure guests only park in designated Visitor Parking spots. Even if you know your neighbour works during the day, stay out of their assigned spot. They may have to come home for a quick break and this is one major pet peeve that can drive a wedge between people.

8. Keep an eye on the time and on your laundry regularly. Don’t leave your stuff sitting in the washer or dryer after it has finished. It annoys other people who are waiting to use the machine. Invest in a drying rack and dry delicate items inside, not on your balcony.

9. Clothing is not optional! Remember to dress appropriately when taking out trash, recycling, picking up mail, doing laundry or getting something from your car.

10. Be aware of your neighbours but also respect their right to their privacy. Be cognizant of and promptly report any crimes or suspicious persons in the building. This is not just a matter of etiquette, but of communal safety. At the same time, be aware of your neighbours, but also respect their right to their privacy.

This means not making their business – like when they leave and enter the building or where they are going – your business.

Creating the kind of community you want to live in means treating your neighbours with the simple respect and courtesy you wish to have reciprocated. As they say, “Begin and the rest is easy.”

Jane Herman is a communications consultant who has worked in the rental property industry. Jane provides communications solutions for a diverse range of clients and has written about food, fashion, apartment living and personal finance for several publications.

SOUTH Central North Saskatchewan River

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90 Ave. 83 St.

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92 St.

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98 Ave.

99 St.

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105 ST BRIDGE

104 St.

114 St.

87 Ave.

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103 St.

Ave. University

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CHECK OUT

www.homeTRADER.ca

101 Ave.

JAMES McDONALD BRIDGE 109 ST BRIDGE

Sas

84 St.

LOW LEVEL BRIDGE

79 St.

106 Ave.

DAWSON BRIDGE

GROAT BRIDGE

CAPILANO BRIDGE

See it Here!

See It Here_24/24

Whyte - 82 Ave.

Advertise your Property for Rent

the view!

10721 – 85 Ave.

Lampliter Apartments

find your happy place.

11251527_2905

• All suites fully renovated • Quiet adult building • Large 1 bedrooms suite available • Walking distance to U of A • Blocks from White Ave. and Kinsmen aquatic centre • Close to major bus routes and river valley walking trails • Pet free building • One bedroom is priced at $850. Two bedrooms are at $950 • Security deposit for the month of March set at $500.

Incentive ends March 31ST, 2013

Contact 780-982-6073 for appointment viewing PAGE 20 • Tell Them You Saw It In The “Renters Guide”

New issue every second Friday

realstar.ca

realstar.ca

Tennyson

Apartments

Park SquareApartments 2 Bedroom Luxury Suites • Air conditioning

1 & 2 Bedroom Suites

• In-suite laundry • Fitness facility • Fireplace • Next to LRT

• Condo-like suites in desirable Terra Losa neighbourhood • Open concept kitchens, fireplaces and in-suite laundry

• Underground parking • Heat and water included Cat Friendly

• Underground heated parking

10001 BELLAMY HILL. 780-423-3540

• Large balconies and patios realstar.ca

• Heat & Water included

Cat Friendly

Macdonald Estates Apartments Bach, 1 & 2 Bedroom Suites • Central downtown location • 1 block to LRT • Bright, spacious suites • Heated enclosed parking • Air conditioned suites, spectacular views • Exercise room & swimming pool • Overlooking the River Valley Cat Friendly

17103, 17104 94A AVE. 780-444-6630

9925 JASPER AVE. 780-990-0339

realstar.ca

realstar.ca

Tennyson

Apartments

Park SquareApartments 2 Bedroom Luxury Suites • Air conditioning

1 & 2 Bedroom Suites

• In-suite laundry • Fitness facility • Fireplace • Next to LRT

• Condo-like suites in desirable Terra Losa neighbourhood • Open concept kitchens, fireplaces and in-suite laundry

• Underground parking • Heat and water included Cat Friendly

• Underground heated parking

10001 BELLAMY HILL. 780-423-3540

• Large balconies and patios realstar.ca

• Heat & Water included

Cat Friendly

Macdonald Estates Apartments Bach, 1 & 2 Bedroom Suites • Central downtown location • 1 block to LRT • Bright, spacious suites • Heated enclosed parking • Air conditioned suites, spectacular views • Exercise room & swimming pool • Overlooking the River Valley Cat Friendly

17103, 17104 94A AVE. 780-444-6630

9925 JASPER AVE. 780-990-0339

realstar.ca

realstar.ca

Wellington under new ownership & management PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS: The Suites • One, one plus den and two bedroom suites • 6 appliances • Laminate flooring • Large balconies

Suite Features • Open concept kitchens with breakfast-bar style counters • Fridge, stove, dishwasher and microwave • In-suite laundry • 9’ ceilings • Walkthrough closets in 2 bedroom suites • Large balconies

Court

Apartments

The Amenities • Exercise room • Underground parking • Storage lockers • Elevators • Secure building • On-site management

Westlawn Village Bachelor, 1 & 2 Bedroom Suites • Large suites • Heat & water included • Close to West Edmonton Mall • Park like setting • Close to schools, parks and public transit Cat Friendly

9535 - 165 STREET 780-484-0760 realstar.ca

Blue Quill

Apartments

1 & 2 Bedroom Suites • Spacious suites, heat & water included • Close to shopping, schools, parks & public transit • Convenient access to Calgary Trail & Whitemud Drive • On site management • Short drive to South Edmonton Commons • Walking distance to Century Park LRT Station

466 & 470 MACEWAN ROAD, 780-430-7879

Cat Friendly

11615 - 28TH AVE. 780-756-7411

realstar.ca

realstar.ca

Wellington under new ownership & management PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS: The Suites • One, one plus den and two bedroom suites • 6 appliances • Laminate flooring • Large balconies

Suite Features • Open concept kitchens with breakfast-bar style counters • Fridge, stove, dishwasher and microwave • In-suite laundry • 9’ ceilings • Walkthrough closets in 2 bedroom suites • Large balconies

Court

Apartments

The Amenities • Exercise room • Underground parking • Storage lockers • Elevators • Secure building • On-site management

Westlawn Village Bachelor, 1 & 2 Bedroom Suites • Large suites • Heat & water included • Close to West Edmonton Mall • Park like setting • Close to schools, parks and public transit Cat Friendly

9535 - 165 STREET 780-484-0760 realstar.ca

Blue Quill

Apartments

1 & 2 Bedroom Suites • Spacious suites, heat & water included • Close to shopping, schools, parks & public transit • Convenient access to Calgary Trail & Whitemud Drive • On site management • Short drive to South Edmonton Commons • Walking distance to Century Park LRT Station

466 & 470 MACEWAN ROAD, 780-430-7879

Cat Friendly

11615 - 28TH AVE. 780-756-7411

d!

SOUTH CENTRAL

n 4543806_2905

n

“A Home With Heart in the Heart of Edmonton”

Unique & Spacious 1 & 2 Bedrooms 8768 - 96 Avenue

Adult & Family Buildings Available

780-469-3080

www.strathearnheights.com

OFFICE HOURS: Monday - Thursday 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Friday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., Closed Sunday

Here’s what you can do to Recycle, Renew and Reuse • Keep your car in good working order. Tune-ups and filter changes cut down on exhaust emissions, and you’ll get better gas mileage. When you change your oil, take your used motor oil to a recycling centre.

• Use available transit alternatives.

• Separate your garbage. Glass, aluminum, paper and even plastic can be recycled. If a recycling program is not directly available to you contact your municipal sanitation department.

• Donate reusable clothing and linens to charity.

Most pick-up regularly in your area.

• Become environmentally active in your community.

KEEP IT CLEAN Please!

NOW IS THE TIME TO ACT!

You can make the world a better place to live... now and for future generations.

Tell Them You Saw It In The “Renters Guide” • PAGE 21

quicktips

Finding the right place

W

hen looking for a new apartment, it’s good to know what you want and what you need. Make a list of priorities and then see how your prospects measure up.

1. Make a list of your top

responsiveness to repair needs and

use of the facilities? Where are the

priorities. Do you need extra

other issues of concern to you. Ask:

facilities located in relation to your

parking spaces? A place that

Would you tell a friend to move into

prospective apartment? Do you

welcomes pets? Thinking through

this building?

really want to live poolside or near the laundry room?

your needs ahead of time can help you find an apartment that meets

4. Examine the lease. A lease

those needs, instead of one that just

is a legal obligation to pay rent

7. Ask about utility costs. Is

strikes your fancy at first glance.

for a specified length of time, and

the water bill paid by the owner

every lease has variations on the

or separately by the tenants? Are

2. Check out the property. In

terms and conditions of tenancy. If

electrical or gas utilities included

addition to examining the condition

the terms of the lease agreement

in the rent? Is there a single

of the for-rent unit, walk through

don’t suit your needs, negotiate or

thermostat for the entire building? If

the property to see whether it

reconsider renting the apartment.

so, who controls it?

the landscaping healthy or dying?

5. Consider security. Does the

8. Take notes. Before you move

Nicely trimmed or growing wild?

building have controlled access? If

in, document the condition of your

Are any windows, steps or railings

so, are the exterior security gates

unit and make note of any non-

broken or dangerous? Do the access

and doors closed? Are the locks in

functioning doors or windows,

doors open easily and shut tightly?

working order? Does your individual

leaking plumbing, missing fixtures,

Walk through at night, too. Are the

unit have secure door locks and

stained carpets and so on. Ask your

parking areas and pathways well

window latches? Does the building

landlord to initial a copy of your

lit? What about the stairwells and

have a security service?

documentation to prevent disputes

appears to be well maintained. Is

when you eventually move out.

hallways?

6. Ask about shared facilities.

Better yet, take pictures or make a

3. Talk to the neighbours. If

Does the building have a swimming

video of the premises before you

you’re serious about a particular

pool? A recreation or fitness room?

bring in any of your furniture or

apartment, knock on a few doors

Tennis courts? Laundry facilities?

belongings.

and ask your potential neighbours

Who is allowed to use those

whether they’re satisfied with the

facilities and during what hours?

building’s amenities, management’s

Is there an extra fee charged for

NorthEAST 195 Ave.

FW Y.

34 St.

ING

d.

20 S

For our online listings We’ve got your bases covered!

Victoria Tr.

Fo 129 Ave.

127 Ave.

Hook Rd. Hermita ge Rd. LO WH EA 121 Ave. DT RA IL

58 St.

120 Ave. 118 Ave. 112

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122 Ave.

95 St.

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132 Ave.

137

CHECK OUT

www.homeTRADER.ca

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137 Ave.

38 St.

87 St.

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82 St.

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104 Ave.

North Saskatchewan River

Found all over the place.

the kitchen!

All Over_24/24

Kuanna Housing Co-Op

find your happy place.

1 bedroom lower suite in 4 Plex Laundry on site $950/month includes utilities Deposit $750

New issue every second Friday

12936-96 Street 780-482-2613

PHONE

Tell Them You Saw It In The “Renters Guide” • PAGE 23

FORT SASKATCHEWAN CHECK OUT

www.homeTRADER.ca

For our online listings We’ve got your bases covered!

ANOTHER LANDMARK GROUP PROJECT

Westwood Terrace

A

75 Woodsmere Close FT. Saskatchewan

R

www.westwoodterrace.ca

11245476_29/05

Brand New Condo Style Apts Adult Building 7 appliances • Heat, water & parking included • Some with underground heated parking • Close to all amenities •

780-992-0243 or Sheila at 780-221-3419

Call Paul at Showsuite

11 FLOOR PLANS TO CHOOSE FROM

PAGE 24 • Tell Them You Saw It In The “Renters Guide”

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fort saskatchewan

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Westland Park

5592194_29/05

8910 - 98 Avenue Fort Saskatchewan

PROPERTY INFORMATION

• 2 & 3 bedroom units • 1 1/2 baths • Professional on site management • Lawn & patios in fenced yards • Full basements • Sorry, no pets This is a great well maintained family community.

Only 10 minutes drive on the Manning Freeway. Now open evenings & Saturday.

Spacious and updated units

780-998-3880

www.GreatApartments.ca

Edmonton Manning Freeway

96 Ave

21

89B St

91 St

St St

89

98 A ve 97 Av e

90 St

At Home in a Great Community

Westland Park Office 99 Ave

89A

ASK ABOUT OUR REMODELED UNITS

Fabulous Rent, Well Maintained...

Move on up to Fort Saskatchewan

15

98 A ve 97 A ve

To Sherwood

Park

finances

How Credit Cards CalCulate interest B y Gai l Vaz -Ox lade

I

f you’re like me and you always pay the amount owing on your credit card by the payment due date, you never have to pay interest, so you may not much care what your interest rate is or how it’s calculated.

But if you carry a balance, or if you ever take cash advances, read on.

finances Interest on a credit card is charged differently depending on the type of transaction on the card. Maybe you made a new purchase. Maybe you’re carrying a balance from last month, which would be a “previous purchase.”

Perhaps you took a cash advance. Or maybe in an attempt to get your interest costs down, you did a balance transfer.

New purchases usually don’t attract any interest unless there’s a previous balance on the card or you end up paying after the due date. At that point, the interest clock clicks on back to the date of the purchase. No grace period! If you carry so much as a penny on the balance, then instead of getting a free ride from the date of purchase through to the date owed the following month, the interest clock clicks on the minute you do the transaction.

The interest-free or “grace” period never applies to cash advances. Yup, the minute you pull that money off your card, the clock clicks on and you start paying interest, usually on your entire balance.

Ditto balance transfers unless you have a special deal going.

The interest you’ll pay is calculated in one of two ways: using the “average daily balance method”or using the “daily balance method”.

While these calculations are different, they often yield the much the same results. If you don’t much care, skip the next two paragraphs. If you really want to know the difference, well, here ya go: Credit cards calculate the average daily balance by adding up the balance at the end of each day and then dividing the total by the number of days in the billing period. The answer is then multiplied by the daily interest rate (the annual interest rate divided by 12). They multiply the result by the number of days in the billing period (30 in June, 31 in July).

The daily balance method calculates interest owed at the end of each day.

They multiply the daily balance by the daily interest rate, adding up the daily interest charges to obtain the amount of interest charged for the month.

Everybody back?

Credit card companies use one of two methods to decide whether the interest-free period applies to your new purchases: On some cards, the interest-free period applies to your new purchases if you pay your current month’s balance in full by the due date. This can be called “method 1” or “one cycle billing”.

But some credit cards want to penalize you when you carry a balance even for one month. In an interest rate grab, “method 2” or the “two cycle” billing was born. With this method, the interest-free period applies to your new purchases only if you pay your current month’s balance in full, by the due date, and you did not carrying a balance from the previous month.

I find it interesting that in all the chatter about cardholder rights and changes proposed by the Feds to protect consumers, two-cycle billing never saw the light of day. And where is the protection for people – students in particular – who are offered credit with no visible means of repayment? And don’t get me started on over-limit fees or any of the other rapacious fees credit card companies use to compensate for all the bad lending they did.

Credit cards can also charge a different interest rate for things like introductory offers, cash advances or balance transfers. Since those rates are often calculated in a different ways than the rates charged for purchases, you need to be careful when you use your cards.

Often, for example, if you do a balance transfer, you should not use that card for any additional purchases. Why? Well, while the balance transfer offer may seem like a gift, the new purchases interest rate can be through the roof. And since all your payments will go to the“balance transfer”pot first, your“new purchases” pot will continue to accumulate at that much higher interest rate.

The recent Fed plans to try to protect consumers from the big bad credit card wolves does address this issue, but nothing has been cast in stone yet.

So sometime in the future consumer payments may have to be assigned to the balance with the higher rate, or they may be spread between the two or more pots based on the relative size of the balance, but who knows.

While it may feel like torture to read your credit card agreement, if you don’t you’re walking blind into something that may bite you in the butt down the road.

And whenever your credit card company sends out a notification that your terms and conditions have changed, pay attention.

It was a lack of attention that allowed the Method 2 calculation or “two-cycle billing”, which was born in the U.S. where credit card companies regularly stick it to their customers, to take hold in Canada. If more people had had their heads up and rebelled, our lenders would never have kept this option. Now it has a strong foothold, it would take a tsunami of customer cancellations to have it reversed. That’s ground we’ve lost as consumers that we’ll never regain.

Gail Vaz-Oxlade is the host of Til Debt Do Us Part and author of Debt Free Forever and blogs daily at www.gailvazoxlade.com.

Follow Gail on Twitter at Twitter.com/GailVazOxlade

NorthWEST Castle Downs Rd.

Campbell Rd.

167 Ave.

162 A ve.

153 Ave.

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124 St

142 St

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111 Ave.

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149 St

118 Ave.

170 St 178 St

184 St

For our online listings We’ve got your bases covered!

127 Ave.

TRA

156 St

199 St.

EAD

WH

www.homeTRADER.ca

132 Ave.

AIL TR RT

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135 St..

137 Ave.

LO YEL

CHECK OUT

97 St.

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113A St.

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127 St.

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121 St.

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See it Here!

See It Here_24/24

Stony Plain Rd.

Lakeland Village 178 Ave & 95 St.

Advertise your Property for Rent

Suzanne Apts

Call

5599472_29/05

• 1 bedroom • Heat, water & parking included • Close to Nait Walking distance to Kingsway Garden Mall

11815-103 St.

780.451.0980

PAGE 28 • Tell Them You Saw It In The “Renters Guide”

Karin

587-520-5552

10460723_29/05

u 3 BEDROOM TOWNHOUSES u 5 appliances u Fireplaces in some units

Find your apartment at Covering all your bases Find Your Apartment_24/25

178 St.

87 Ave.

For our online listings We’ve got your bases covered!

159 St.

.

QUESNELL BRIDGE

69 Ave.

CHECK OUT

www.homeTRADER.ca

Rd

WHITEMUD FWY.

GROAT BRIDGE

142 St.

149 St.

156 St.

95 Ave. 163 St.

170 St.

100 Ave.

175 St.

182 St.

102 Ave.

Stony Plain

sta Vi

ANTHONY HENDAY DR.

Stony Plain Rd.

107 Ave. 124 St.

Ma yfi eld

Rd .

111 Ave.

a en Bu

Callingwood Rd.

See It Here_24/24

North Saskatchewan River

See it Here!

the pool!

Advertise your Property for Rent

INCENTIVES

PARKWOOD

DESIGNER UPGRADES

4543848_29/05

d!

WEST

Must See & Compare!!

• Large 2 bdrm suites • Patios all suites • Walk through closets with 1.5 baths • 3 appliances • Window coverings • Large balconies • Seniors welcome • Heat, water, energized parking included • Beside W.E.M & bus • Excellent on-site manager • Sorry no pets Renovated Building

find your happy place.

New issue every second Friday

ADUlT oNly

18240 - 84 Ave. 780-486-4177

PHONE

Tell Them You Saw It In The “Renters Guide” • PAGE 29

SOUTHEAST North Saskatchewan River 106 Ave. BASELINE RD.

101 Ave.

CHECK OUT

98 Ave.

90 Ave.

Whyte - 82 Ave.

www.homeTRADER.ca

SHERWOOD PARK FWY.

For our online listings We’ve got your bases covered!

86 St.

17 St.

d.

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34 St.

Ar

50 St.

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63 Ave.

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75 St.

99 St.

83 St.

76 Ave.

WHITEMUD FWY.

38 A ve.

39 Ave.

66 St.

Millwoods Rd.

34 Ave. 91 St.

CALGARY TRAIL NORTH

51 Ave.

23 Ave.

ELLERSLIE RD.

I FOUND MY PLACE AT PAGE 30 • Tell Them You Saw It In The “Renters Guide”

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SOUTH EAST

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62 ST & 38 AVE

Y O U R

Woodvale Court

H A P P Y P L A C E

2 BEDROOM TOWNHOMES

d!

• All split levels • 4 appliances including washer/dryer • Quiet family complex • Close to schools and parks 6980276_29/05

30 Woodvale Road

780-448-4984 www.ayreoxford.com

find: Rustic

find your happy place.

Tell Them You Saw It In The “Renters Guide” • PAGE 31

SOUTHWEST GROAT BRIDGE

23 Ave.

104 St. SOUTH

40 Ave.

105 St.

34 Ave.

d. ill R

R abbit H

www.homeTRADER.ca

111 St.

119 St.

WHITEMUD DR.

51 Ave.

CHECK OUT For our online listings We’ve got your bases covered!

CALGARY TRAIL NORTH

122 St.

Belgravia Rd.

Lansdowne Dr.

Terw

Riverbend Rd. illeg ar D r.

North Saskatchewan River

143 St.

Fox Dr.

76 Ave.

106 St.

QUESNELL BRIDGE

113 St. 109 St.

Whyte - 82 Ave.

19 Ave. Saddleback Rd. 9 Ave.

ELLERSLIE RD.

Blackburne Dr.

ineridge ON-SITE MAINTENANCE MANAGER You’ll Be Glad You Called Pineridge The Last Word In Affordable Elegance In A Quiet, Convenient Location

• Newly Renovated 1& 2 bedroom suites some with lofts • Clean & quiet adult building • 3 appliances/smart card laundry/ some utilities • Elevators/outdoor pool • Balconies/patios in all suites • Bus outside building. LRT near by.

• Social Room, Fitness Centre.

• Blackmud Creek Ravine setting, Nature Trails for your enjoyment

2207 - 118 STREET

780.438.0941

• Close Commute to Southgate Shopping Centre, South Common, YMCA, Medical Facilities.

• Sorry No Pets

PAGE 32 • Tell Them You Saw It In The “Renters Guide”

45438

www.globegeneral.ca

north east

huntington place Luxurious Large 2 bedroom suites • 1.5 Baths • Sauna • Storage • 4 Appliances • Close to All Amenities • Includes Heat & Water • Seniors Welcome • No Pets Please Professionally Managed By: Globe General Agencies Ltd.

senior security deposit only $200

south central

5425 - 144B Avenue North East Call 587-400-5109

the southgate Unique Bach, 1 & 2 Bdrm suites

spectacular river valley location

senior security deposit only $200

oliver

• Quiet adult building • Renovated suites • Bus stop in front of building • Near sports facilities, bike & walking trails • On-site friendly staff • Satellite ready • SORRY NO PETS Professionally Managed By: Globe General Agencies Ltd.

10405 Saskatchewan Dr. South Central

Call 587-400-5110

lamplighter apts.

Large 1 & 2 bedroom suites

spectacular city views

heat & water included

• Newly renovated lobby and common areas • In-suite storage • Underground or outside parking available • Secure building w/upgrd security camera’s & FOB entry system • Wrap around balconies with spectacular view • Social room with sauna • SORRY NO PETS Professionally Managed By: Globe General Agencies Ltd.

10333 - 121 Street North Central

Call 587-400-5111

Live Downtown & Love It! Grand Central Manor. Contemporary Chic!

Grand Central Manor 1935 Sq.fT luxuRy PenThOuSe available Please Phone

780-800-8923 10904 102nd Ave Edmonton, AB.

Email: generalinfoGCM@shaw.ca

Executive Furnished Suites Also Available 5 Designer Floor Plans Window Coverings Carpet or Hardwood 6 Appliances Security Systems Concrete Construction On-Site Management On-Site Security Fitness Rooms Media Room Adult Building

Riverside Towers. Spectacular River Valley Views!

Spectacular river Valley Views!

Please Phone

780-800-8921

8610 Jasper Avenue Edmonton, AB. f r E E

u t i L i t i E S

Email: riverside.info@shaw.ca

Huge Suites: Bachelor (660 sq. ft.)

1 Bedroom (865 sq. ft.)

2 Bedrooms (1160 sq. ft.)

3 Bedrooms (1380 sq. ft.)

Fitness Room On-site Management Media Room Night time Concierge Convenience Store On-site Maintenance Families Welcome

Oliver Place. Urban Lifestyle!

Located in the

of Oliver

Call fOR availabiliTy Please Phone

780-800-8924

10130 117th Street Edmonton, AB. f r E E

u t i L i t i E S

Email: oliverplace@shaw.ca

www.devonshire-inc.com

Bachelor Suites One & Two Bedrooms Hardwood Floors Fitness Room Games & Social Room On-Site Management Adult Building On-Site Security Supermarket next door On Bus Route Beside Bank & Stores