Our Blog

It doesn’t matter what time of year it is; people are always moving. There are definitely times of year when moving is more common: when school begins and ends, summertime when the weather is nicer, etc.; but at Mainstreet we happily move people into their new homes every day. We wanted to put together this simple resource to help you plan your move to your new Mainstreet place.

Mainstreet buildings are always strategically located in clusters for multiple reasons, but one of the most important is that we believe in providing quality, affordable apartments in the best locations people want to live. A big part of that affordability comes from our belief that people shouldn’t pay extra for amenities they won’t use. Think about it: If only three neighbors are hitting that building’s gym every day, it’s not great that everyone else in the building is still being charged for it.

For that reason, we prioritize acquiring and improving buildings in areas with close proximity to gyms, yoga studios, dog parks, open green spaces, and much more. We make it easy to enjoy these amenities if you want to, not charging you for them even if you don’t. So this will be the first in a series of blogs focusing on the amenities nearby MEQ buildings we think you should be taking advantage of:

There are few birds that don't migrate south for the brutal Canadian winter. They're indeed a rare breed, but these hardy creatures are here to stay, no matter how dark and cold the season gets.

The work of addressing our Canadian history – a history which includes as much sorrow as joy, a history whose victims far outnumber its heroes – is not a simple or easy task, but a necessary one.

The benefits of a deep spring cleaning are far more than many people realize. Check out our checklist for all those cleaning items that are usually missed throughout the year.

Looking after our physical health is crucial in these difficult times, but during this national week focusing on mental health, we need to take some time out to check in on ourselves and those we care about.

In honour of Earth Day, a close look at the environmentally-friendly corporate philosophy and practices of Mainstreet Equity Corp.

Ahead of Mainstreet Equity Corp.'s 2021 Annual General Meeting, InvestMainstreet takes a closer look at what an AGM is all about.

If there's one thing Albertans believe in, it's supporting entrepreneurship. With COVID-19 closing so many businesses, it's more important than ever to support those still going. Fortunately, with so many delivery and takeout options out there, folks in Alberta can stay safe, eat well, AND support our community at the same time. Whether you are living in student housing by NAIT or SAIT, studying hard at the U of L's Dhillon school of business to start your own, cramming by candlelight for midterms at University of Calgary or University of Alberta? Just take a night off to chill inside while the weather is freezing out, order a movie and a meal to your Mainstreet apartment!

With COVID-19 closing the doors of so many community establishments, it's more important than ever to support our local businesses so we can kick Saskatchewan's economy back into gear. Fortunately, whether you are living in our student housing by the University of Saskatchewan or the University of Regina; if you're enjoying that City Park apartment life in one of our heritage buildings, or anywhere else? With so many delivery and takeout options available you can stay safe, eat well, AND support your community at the same time. Here are our top picks for pandemic takeout in Saskatoon and Regina.

COVID-19 has stopped a lot of fun from happening this year, but with time and dedication, many event organizers have adapted to the challenges and are finding new ways to stage events. Here are just a few examples from across Western Canada, there's sure to be something for everyone to let you get out of the house to have some fun in a safe and responsible way! Here are some fun and frightening fall activities to get you out of the house and then scare you back in!

So what do our property taxes pay for? Nearly everything we rely upon in our day-to-day lives!

One very important reason to pay your rent is because we all rely on the services provided for by property taxes which the government takes from the rent you pay your landlord. These are the services that keep our cities running and our communities clean and healthy. It's important that the government charges enough to fund their services, but not so much that people can't afford to live or do business in a city. 

2020 has been a year for the history books. And in an attempt to return to normalcy some professional sports have been given the green light to resume operation and begin play. One of those sports is the NHL. The Playoff season began at the end of July and will continue in the months to come. 

Mainstreet has some very exciting news to announce for the summer of 2020! 

Explore one of the most up and coming neighbourhoods in Calgary! Read our take on why Inglewood is such a radiant location in Inner City Calgary. 

You, your dog, and your family, just like the rest of the world -- are in quarantine, shelter in place or some other form of lockdown, which means that your usual means of entertainment are probably off the table. Keeping yourself busy during these long days can be a challenge, or an opportunity to learn new things and get creative. In this post we are going to list of 10 things you can do, to help keep yourself busy in your Mainstreet apartment during the COVID-19 crisis.

Working from your apartment? The world as we know it has changed drastically in the past few months in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and with that so has the daily operations of many businesses globally.  In this post, we will walk you through some helpful tips to remain productive, positive and sane in a time that the world has transitioned to the WFH model and self-isolation.

From museums to nightlife, to street art. Regina has a lot to offer in terms of entertainment. We hope you take the time to experience it from a different perspective. Get out the door and start exploring, the queen city awaits.

Saskatoon's West Side is defying its reputation and proving that change driven by members of the community themselves is the most effective kind.

Edmonton's ICE District is often associated with Rogers Place, the Casino, the great shopping, and hot nightlife; but there's a more cultivated side to this thriving area of Edmonton, too. We'll focus on three modern places whose architecture is as fascinating as what the buildings host.

Find out why Bowness was just ranked in Calgary's top three neighbourhoods

New to the City of Calgary? Or a born and raised Calgarian? It doesn't matter we have you covered. In this post, we will discuss some of our favourite events, places and communities to visit in Inner City Calgary. 

In 2019, Canada was the fastest growing country in the G7, with a recorded population growth rate of 1.4%. This was double the per-capita growth of the United States and the UK. Canada also posted over 4x the growth of France & Germany. If this trend continues, Canada could top the United States in Economic Growth this year as immigration being the driving force.

Western Canada's population growth trend continues at a pace exceeding even many of the most liberal projections of only a few years ago.

Here are some great tips for getting the most out of your apartment during the winter seasons in Western Canada!

Canada is really popular right now. Between July and September of this year, Canada added over 200,000 people to our population, the most significant population growth seen since 1971.

With over 700,000 international students choosing to study in Canada each year, the country has seen a surge in demand for residential units. Mainstreet Equity identified this growing niche early on, recognizing that these students represented both significant spending power and long-term rental consumers, possessing the financial wherewithal to study abroad and so committing to one city for at least three to four years as well.

Real Estate Investing can be daunting to newcomers. In this post, we'll explain the differences between the three types of common real estate investments: Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), Real Estate Funds (REFs), and Real Estate Operating Companies (REOCs). We'll also provide a little background on each. 

Getting into investing can seem overwhelming for many people. In this post, we share some tips on how to select the right investment for you, considering and discussing factors such as desired levels of risk and return.

Deciding where to attend college or university is one of the biggest decisions most people will make in their life, this can be especially daunting if you are an international student. This post looks at some key facts and data points on foreign students in Canada.

Whether for financial reasons or to live more sustainability, more people are choosing to ditch their cars for good.

Renting an apartment for the first time? This can be an exciting, yet stressful time. We are here to help your transition into adulting as seamless as possible. This post will shed some light on the additional costs that come with renting an apartment and prepare you for them. 

Mainstreet's 2019 results mark the sixth consecutive quarter of year-over-year double-digit growth in all of our key metrics, solidifying a steady improvement in our operational performance that has continued to deliver non-dilutive value to our shareholders. 

According to the Conference Board of Canada, the province of Alberta is expected to rebound in 2020 & 2021. Factors attributing to this include; a new government, and strength in investments fueled by the Trans-Mountain Expansion.

The Government of Saskatchewan released its plans for the province's next decade. Focused on growing both the population and the economy, the plan strives to add 100,000 jobs and 226,000 people to the province by 2030. 

Alberta, Canada has experienced upward population growth over the course of 2018 and 2019. The following is a look at the 2019 Alberta population growth trends and where Alberta stands in comparison to other Canadian provinces.

Canada has seen a surge in property appreciation over recent years, especially in the Vancouver and Toronto areas. The increase in property value has made the dream of homeownership nearly insurmountable for younger generations. With today's property values, many millennials are unable to afford a home in the way that older generations were.

If you are a current student or upcoming student who will be living in the Saskatoon area, then you are no doubt wondering where the most affordable and student-friendly neighborhoods are located. The following guide will help you find the best communities to live in.

Real estate trends and statistics are an important measure of the current health and state of the real estate market. Alberta as a province has seen years of recession, which has altered real estate values and the number of transactions taking place.

The Surrey-Langley SkyTrain will help to improve local transportation as it looks to extend the SkyTrain line to the communities of Surrey and Langley and improve the commute and transportation of residents in Lower Mainland BC. 

Are you considering purchasing renters insurance? If you are renting an apartment it is highly recommended. Renters insurance is becoming more and more common as many people chose to rent instead of buying a home/condo.

Millennials make up nearly 40% of the workforce in Canada. Homeownership is no longer the end goal for most working adults. Previous generations pursued homeownership, the latest generation of adults (millennials) are choosing to rent rather than own their own homes.

There are many different neighborhoods and communities in Calgary, each with their own unique traits and vibes that may appeal to a wide range of people and potential renters.

Are you a student looking for the best place to live in Edmonton? If so, you're in luck: there are a lot of great neighborhoods in Edmonton that are perfect for students. The following are the very best Edmonton neighborhoods for students.

If you are looking for a new apartment, then you already know that there is a lot of research that goes into this important decision. Here are 4 important factors to keep in mind when choosing an apartment floor plan.

Edmonton is filled with natural sights, entertainment attractions, cultural and historical destinations, and so much more; so if you're visiting Edmonton soon, take a look at these 15 things to do in Edmonton for your next trip.

If you want to make sure that you are prepared when looking for your first apartment to rent, take a look at our first-time apartment renter checklist.

Mainstreet Equity has a number of Calgary apartment buildings situated along the newly established bike lanes. These lanes are designated roadways and individual lanes exclusively for bikers in Calgary's Urban areas.

Apartment hunting can be time-consuming and frustrating, whether you're new to the area or have been living in Edmonton for a while. Here are 3 tips for finding your perfect apartment in Edmonton.

Whether you are visiting or live in the city of Regina, there is no shortage of year-round and seasonal activities. Regina has something for everyone: historical sites, cultural landmarks, arts and entertainment, festivals, shopping and so much more.

Before you move to Edmonton, there are a few things you need to know about living in the city as well as tips on how to move there without breaking your bank account.

Moving to Regina can cost a fortune, especially if you currently live far away from the city. Thankfully, it is possible to move to Regina on a budget as long as you are careful with your expenses and follow these essential tips.

Not all apartments are pet-friendly, and not all neighborhoods are pet-friendly either. At Mainstreet, the majority of our apartments are pet-friendly, but there are a few things you should watch out for when apartment hunting with pets.

Even if you have a small bedroom, you can spruce things up and make it appear much bigger than it really is – with smart design and creativity. Follow these tips on decorating a small bedroom.

We've compiled a list of the very best tips to follow when apartment hunting to reduce stress and make the process as painless as possible.

The best way to avoid overspending on moving is to set a moving budget and then stick to it. Follow our guide to help you create a moving budget and save on your moving costs.

At Mainstreet, the majority of our apartments and buildings are pet-friendly, allowing our tenants to have their animal companions. Here are some of the newer pet features that are available in the marketplace today.

Are you considering living with a roommate? There are advantages and disadvantages to having a roommate, we compiled a few tips to help tenants find the best possible roommate.

Real estate experts in Calgary say that the east and the northeastern regions show good promise. The areas that have long been desired to live are lagging a bit behind in price momentum. What are the top Calgary neighborhoods to put in your money?

Finding accommodations and student housing as a student can be a headache.  Here are a few tips to help you find accommodation faster and more cost-friendly options.

The average home value is $414,000 with a maximum average price of $831K and a minimum average price of $250K seen in the last year. 86% of the homes in Edmonton are below $500K. Which are the top neighbourhoods to put your money in?

People looking for an apartment these days are more concerned with the amenities in the apartment rather than communal amenities. Here are some of the more popular/in-demand apartment amenities renters are looking for.

There is a revival going on in downtown Edmonton and the ICE district is in the middle of it all. The two office tower being built (Stantec Tower & JW Marriott) as part of the project has seen 90% occupancy. The towers are a mixed-use development which is hoped to breathe fresh life into downtown Edmonton.

Canada consistently attracts tens of thousands of foreign students a year. The culture, way of life, education system and roll in the international community are all factors that drive students to Canada. Here are a few tips and guidelines to study and live in Canada.

If you're looking for a postcard-perfect place to live, work or play in Alberta, look no further than Calgary. Here are some of the 7 most popular neighbourhoods worth renting in Calgary.

Are you planning to move to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan? If you are, it is important to find the right community. Here are some of the most popular neighbourhoods to choose from in Saskatoon.

Most people dread the thought of having to live in an itty bitty bachelor-style apartment. While everything is crammed in a large, open space, that doesn't mean that you cannot decorate your bachelor suite. Follow these decoration tips to add more character, oomph, and style to your bachelor suite apartment.

Finding the right apartment at the right price in a large city like Edmonton is no picnic. But, apartment hunting doesn't have to be that way. Consider the following ways so you can efficiently find an apartment in Edmonton

Finding the 'perfect apartment' is far from a walk in the park, and can often be rushed. Here is a quick ten-step guide that's poised to make your hunt for the best apartment a breeze.

Wondering what to do to cut your utility bills? Heating and cooling account for nearly 50 percent of all energy an average Canadian household uses. Here are 6 tried and true ways to save on your next utility bill.

Here are five reasons why Saskatchewan is a top choice for foreign students who want to make the most out of their education and school years in Canada.

Saskatchewan has vibrant communities, job opportunities, affordable cost of living, and plenty of sunshine, making it desirable for immigrants looking to relocate to Canada. What's more - the Canadian Express Entry immigration system makes it effortlessly easy to immigrate to Saskatchewan.
 

Both buying and renting have their own set of unique challenges and advantages. Here are some of the top reasons why renting a place is better than buying a property.

Regina has an array of sought after communities. If you are looking to rent in Regina the first consideration should be location/community. Here are some of the best rental communities in Regina.

Over recent years the province of Saskatchewan has seen a surge in population and economic growth. The province has become a destination for immigrants and business. Here are some of the top 5 reasons why more and more people are flocking to the province.