I have co-op for the second semester next year, I was wondering what my best option would be for housing for the first semester when I have classes. I also have 2 friends that are in the same boat and we are looking to get a place together. I've heard West Village Suites does short term rentals and has suites, but I've also seen some terrible reviews for the place. Would my best option be to wait until the summer when short term leases and sublets for houses start coming up? Or are there any good apartments near by that will do this? Are there any residence buildings we could stay in?

Residence is an option. The co-op office has information about this, and housing has some information online.

I'm in my fifth year of a co-op program, and most people I know sign a regular 8 or 12-month lease, and then look for subletters for term 2. Upper year co-op students will be coming back, and there are always exchange students looking for places. However, you might lose some money on rent with a sublet, and there's always the possibility that you can't find a subletter. Also keep in mind that your co-op job might end up being in Hamilton, in which case you would need a place here anyway.

Res is also a good option as you don't have to worry about subletting. I also know of landlords that do short term 4-month leases.