I'm thinking about moving to calgary, but i'm not sure how to do it?

Question

this is my first time moving out on my own so i'm not sure what to do first regarding a place to stay. Do i stay at a motel while i look for an apartment shared or single? Secondly do i look for a job first then an apartment? i'm currently living in vancouver. thanks for your answers

Answer 1

It's Alberta so you will probably fall into a job by accident while walking down the street.  Apartment you might have to look for.  You can stay at a motel while you look.  Last time I moved, I had to get a hotel for the first night and found an apartment and moved in next day but the vacancy rate was a bit better then.  

Answer 2

Job first would be nice unless you have lots of money saved up. In reality, though, it's much easier to find any old place to stay when you get there, then find a job, then decide where to live after you see what parts of town you like or can afford and are easy to get to work from. Motels can get expensive if you have to stay in one for any length of time but usually you can ask for a cheaper rate if you plan on staying for a week or a month.  

Answer 3

With the huge labour shortage, you could probably find a job online from Vancouver. Most are willing to wait for you to relocate (depending on your chosen field). Some will also assist you with finding housing.

Overall you will probably want to find your job first, so that you can find a house nearby. Also you will need to factor in travel-will you be taking transit to work or driving? You'll want to be near the transit lines, or have a place with available parking.

If you can afford, stay in a motel, or if you're bringing a car, you could probably find a short term room rental. If you're open to roommates you'll hit a goldmine; as housing prices came down a bit, it seemed like everyone bought a house, but everyone is now trying to find roommated to help diffuse costs.