Buying near Fanshawe College

Last reviewed October 30, 2026

Fanshawe College's main campus is in London's east end, off Oxford Street East near Highbury Avenue, and the college also has a campus downtown. Fanshawe programs vary in length, from one-year certificates to multi-year diplomas and degrees, and that matters a lot when deciding whether to buy. This site isn't affiliated with Fanshawe College.

Program length comes first

Before looking at areas, check how long your student will actually be in London. A one-year certificate rarely justifies buying. The costs of buying and selling usually outweigh any savings. A three- or four-year program, or several programs back-to-back, or a younger sibling who might follow, can change the math. See buy vs rent.

Areas near the main campus

The neighbourhoods around Oxford Street East and Highbury Avenue

The residential areas immediately around the main campus include established neighbourhoods such as Huron Heights and nearby streets with houses, townhouses and some low-rise buildings. Many homes here are rented to students, and the area is convenient for walking or a short bus ride to class.

Townhouse complexes in the east end

The east end has many condo townhouse complexes, some popular with students and young families. They can be a practical option for a student plus one or two roommates, with the corporation handling exterior maintenance. Check condo fees, reserve funds and rental rules.

Along bus routes

Fanshawe students generally have a transit pass included in their fees, so areas along direct bus routes to campus, including parts of the north-east and east, are worth considering. They're sometimes quieter and better value than the streets closest to campus.

Near Fanshawe's downtown campus

If your student's program is at the downtown campus, a downtown condo puts them within walking distance of class, the market, restaurants and the main transit hub. Downtown condos also appeal to young professionals, which can widen your options when you sell or rent the unit later.

What to check

• Program and campus: confirm which campus your student's classes are on, for every year of the program.
• Commute: test the walk or bus ride at class times.
• Licensing and zoning: if roommates will pay rent, check the City's licensing rules and any bedroom limits for the property.
• Condo rules: rental permissions, occupancy limits, parking.
• Condition: many east-end homes date from the 1960s–80s. Inspect roofs, furnaces, windows and electrical carefully.
• Safety: smoke and CO alarms, secure entry, lighting, and basement bedroom egress.

Value and resale

Parts of the east end have some of London's more accessible price points, which can make the numbers work better for a student purchase. When you eventually sell, think about the broader buyer pool: first-time buyers, young families and investors all look in these areas. Properties with good layouts, parking and updated systems tend to sell more easily.

Shorter programs: alternatives to buying

For one- or two-year programs, renting is usually the better choice. Look for licensed rentals, read the lease carefully (Ontario's standard lease applies), and consider renting in a purpose-built building with on-site management for added peace of mind.

Questions for the seller

• Has the property been rented to students before, and is it licensed?
• What are typical utility costs per month?
• When were the roof, furnace and water heater last replaced?
• Are there current tenants, and when do their leases end?