Across the nation, rents are climbing, creating a challenging environment for many. On average, rent prices have increased by 8.8% year over year. However, in some cities, the situation is even more staggering with increases as high as 29% for one-bedroom apartments. It's a squeeze particularly felt by students and new immigrants, who are already balancing life's challenges on limited budgets. 

Several elements contribute to this issue. Population growth outpacing available housing, an influx of immigrants, and hesitant potential homebuyers stymied by high interest rates—each of these are pieces of our complex puzzle. These factors create a cycle where demand heavily outweighs supply, leaving both renters and property owners in a tight spot. Now, government bodies have promised solutions, such as new housing projects, but these measures are often slow to materialize. Just like solving a complex puzzle requires a clear strategy, so does addressing the multifaceted issues of the rental market. As always, who you work with matters.