Moving from Halifax, NS to Victoria, BC

[Flip]

Hi guys,

I just found out that I got a postdoctoral fellowship (yay!) at the University of Victoria. I am currently living in Halifax, and am a bit nervous about the move. I've heard that the Victoria rental situation is not very pet-friendly, so I am desperate to find a pet-friendly place for me, Mr. Flip, and two cats. I am not quite sure about how I am going to move across the country and have a place for Kiwi as soon as I get there. It seems like it's going to be really stressful. I'm sure many people have done this sort of thing in the past, so if you have any suggestions about cross-country moves, or if you live in Victoria and could point me in the right direction for housing, I would be extremely grateful!

Thanks :)

Meagan (and Kiwi & Mr. Flip & the cats)

[Enko_chan]

Congrats! That's quite an achievement!

Victoria is in a beautiful area. If I could move anywhere on this continent, it would be there. I lived a short distance south of there, and spent a lot of time in the area. I know someone who used to own property in Victoria and Vancouver, I will get in touch with him and see if he still has any connections. No promises, but I may be able to help.

[LovelySydney]

Congrats on the fellowship, thats great news!!! Definitely look online, there are always places that post rental properties and a lot of them time they post what they want and dont want in their properties as far as pets go. I know there is probably some one on this board who can help you also. I always have looked online when I've moved - one time I even left a place because when I got my Maggie, who was only 4 pounds, they said no dogs allowed, even though they had no idea I had her for 6 months!

I hope you can bring all your pets with you - there is always someone who will allow it, don't get stressed over it!!! You will find something, I know it!!

[FuzzyAga]

Congratulations. I've moved three times across the US with two cats. I used movers, flew, and the cats went cargo. Got better with each move because I traveled light, and lighter, and lighter still. LOL. It's stress--no denying that. No reason why you can't survive it, though. :)

Here're some moving advice at och101 dot com/moving. This is the Off Campus Student Housing Rentals site. I think this is in Victoria, BC. Not sure. Lots of good info under Moving Advice.

Good luck.

[Flip]

Thanks for the input guys. And thanks Enko_chan. Right now I am looking for a place for July or Aug 1. It's a bit early to be looking, but I want to get a head start. I'm a little nervous about the move...

[Chickobee]

Unfortunately, the rental market fluctuates all the time and very often finding a place that is available when you want it can be difficult, and a matter of luck. Looking way ahead of time will give you information on the area so you know what to expect.

My suggestion would be to contact the university housing office and work through them.

The very best places off campus may have a waiting list or are snapped up as soon as they become available. Being at the right place at the right time is the key.

In a university town it is a good idea to be looking for housing in June when the graduating seniors are leaving, but before the fall influx of new students.

Housing in Victoria is very tight, and tends to be expensive. With pets you will have an even more difficult time finding what you want, or can afford. You may need to live farther from the university, but public transportation in Victoria is very good. Parking at the university can be a problem, so many students use bicycles.

(I also have a relative who lives in Victoria.)