Shawn Slaght, DiscoverMooseJaw.com

A new report from Rental Housing Saskatchewan suggests more people are choosing to rent for longer periods, with affordability and flexibility helping make rental housing a long-term option for many residents.

The Saskatchewan Rental Population Report, released by Rental Housing Saskatchewan, examines who is renting in the province, the demographics of renters, and the amenities they value when choosing a home.

Landon Field, CEO of Rental Housing Saskatchewan, said the organization commissioned the report to better understand the people it serves and help rental housing providers meet changing demand.

“Our organization wanted to put together a bit of a report and analysis to really understand how we can meet the needs of the communities and residents we serve,” Field said.

One of the report’s key findings is that 64 per cent of people who have immigrated to Canada within the past five years are renters in Saskatchewan.

Field said professional landlords and property managers play an important role in helping newcomers find housing after arriving in the province.

The report also found 80 per cent of property operators have seen more residents choosing to rent for longer periods of time.