Cheap rent

Sidney Towers Coop is a not-for-profit, so rent is super cheap. Everyone has to help with cleaning, repairs, snow removal, gardening etc.

When I first moved it, there were a lot of elderly residents and it was nice and quiet. When I left, there were some really loud people who would have parties until 4am and/or have screaming matches pretty often. There was also a lot of construction noise due to the new condo being built across the street (will be the tallest in Ottawa).

The apartments are spacious, and the bathrooms were recently renovated. The kitchens are pretty outdated, but have lots of cupboard space.

Water and heat is free. There were a few occasions where the heat would stop working in the wintertime. Otherwise, it can be a bit sauna-like on the upper floors when everyone has their heat on. You'll also want to install a window a/c unit in the summer.