is not easy in Calgary as it turns out. The good ones get taken within a day and the not so good ones increase prices. My mornings have started with reviewing the alerts I’ve got overnight and then going through the existing rental websites to see whether something new has arrived. First few days I was writing e-mails but quickly realized that the best is to call as well and try to get a viewing in as soon as possible. We’ve seen highrises that are basically dormitories for workers who have come to stay for a few years – there are common areas downstairs – gym, pool, room to view movies, common room. A few private condos – some nicer some not so nice, but nevertheless gone quickly.

We have honed on to one that is across the hall from our current temporary quarters. There are still a lot of hurdles to be crossed – the application has to be approved by the owner. But you’ll need to hand over a check or pay cash or do a wire transfer for the deposit before. Canada is still one of the countries where checks are used and therefore they charge for electronic transfers extra. This is weird, but it is what it is. I haven’t used checks since I lived in the States. Oh, actually, London as well – 10 years ago.

We have seen 6 different flats/appartements over the past week and really liked one of them because of the location and size. It comes unfurnished though, so the next step is to figure out how and where to rent the furniture and what furniture to buy. They did increase the price from one day to another as well. I must admit it is not my ideal solution at least, but unless a furnished flat with a suitable location and price comes on the market, we’ll have to take what is there.