5 Reasons Students Like Living at KOTO and Cornerstone

5 Reasons Students Like Living at KOTO and Cornerstone

Finding secure and convenient student housing near Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Burnaby is a top priority for students in 2026. With the rental market remaining highly competitive and the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Burnaby reaching approximately $2,187 per month, SH Burnaby provides two premier options for SFU students: KOTO and Cornerstone. By offering fully furnished suites, comprehensive amenities, and a location steps from campus, these properties allow students to focus entirely on their academics. Here are the five primary reasons students are drawn to these residences.

1. Unbeatable Proximity to the SFU Campus

The most significant advantage of living at Koto and Cornerstone is their location within the UniverCity community on Burnaby Mountain. Both properties operate on the five-minute rule, meaning residents are within a five-minute walk of the SFU campus. This immediate proximity eliminates the need for a 20 to 45-minute commute via bus or SkyTrain that students living at the base of the mountain typically face. Living directly on the mountain allows students to easily access the Bennett Library, the SFU Aquatic Centre, and late-night study sessions without worrying about transit schedules or long travel times.

2. Move-In Ready: Fully Furnished and All-Inclusive Living

The turnkey housing model is highly valued in 2026, particularly by international and out-of-province students who want to avoid the high costs and logistical challenges of furnishing an apartment. KOTO features modern, Scandinavian-inspired interiors that provide a welcoming and balanced aesthetic, while Cornerstone offers comfortable, well-equipped spaces designed for student life. Both properties provide all-inclusive rates that cover high-speed Wi-Fi, electricity, heat, and water. This financial predictability protects students from the hidden costs of private rentals, which can easily add $150 to $250 per month to a student's budget. Additionally, these suites include full modern appliances, such as a fridge, oven, microwave, dishwasher, and highly sought-after in-suite washers and dryers.

3. The UniverCity Lifestyle: Convenience at Your Doorstep

Living at KOTO or Cornerstone places students in the heart of a master-planned community designed specifically for walkability and convenience. Residents are just steps away from University High Street, which hosts essential services including a Nesters Market grocery store, Scotiabank, and various local restaurants. Furthermore, residents of these properties are eligible for the UniverCity Community Card, granting them free or discounted access to SFU's recreation facilities, art gallery, and library. For trips into downtown Vancouver or Brentwood, both buildings are situated near major transit loops, providing seamless access to the Millennium Line.

4. Student-Focused Living and Community Support

Unlike the shadow market of private basement suites or condos, SH Burnaby properties are managed specifically for the student demographic. This focus translates into practical services that enhance the university experience. Professional roommate matching services are available, reducing the social and financial risks of finding co-tenants in a new city. The properties also feature 24/7 on-site support staff and social programming designed to foster community and academic success. Additionally, recent reports in May 2026 have highlighted concerns regarding extreme heat in older SFU residences. Modern PBSA buildings offer updated building standards that provide a more controlled, comfortable, and secure living environment regardless of the season.

Conclusion

For SFU students navigating the BC rental market in 2026, KOTO and Cornerstone represent more than just a place to sleep. By combining unbeatable proximity to campus, all-inclusive financial simplicity, and student-focused amenities, SH Burnaby has positioned these properties as the gold standard for off-campus student living. Whether prioritizing the Scandinavian-inspired design of KOTO or the long-term lease security of Cornerstone, students can find a secure and supportive environment tailored to their academic journey.