It has been awhile since I have looked for an apartment on the Lower Mainland, but my brother and his wife just found a place. They looked for almost 3 months before finding something they wanted (they are also having a baby ASAP). I would suggest that you start looking as soon as you can. That way you will not feel forced to take something at the end of the month that you don't like if you haven't found a place you actually like.

You probably already have some idea of where you want to live, i.e. close to work or school. So that will help narrow things down.

I would also ask about the damage deposit required. Someplaces require first and last months rent as a deposit.

In the Lower Mainland I would also ask about the roof. Many of the condos built in the 90's have leaky roof problems, so make sure you don't end up with a leaky roof (look for water marks on the ceiling).

Good luck with everything