When searching for a new rental home, touring the units is a key part of finding the perfect fit. However, organizing showings with property managers can be a lengthy process, particularly given our busy lives.
While digital advances have provided listings with lots of photos and virtual tours, these tools can sometimes fall short of giving a full sense of the property. This may be why 83% of renters opt for self-guided tours rather than other options.
While self-guided rental home tours have their advantages, they also have a few downsides. Weighing the pros and cons is important before deciding on a self-guided tour during your rental home search.
Pros
- Convenient for those with busy schedules. In contrast to traditional tours that involve coordinating with a landlord or agent, self-guided tours let you access the property whenever it suits you. You choose a convenient time, receive an access code, and then head to the property when you’re ready.
- For security purposes, self-guided tours are never double-booked ensuring you won’t have uncomfortable interactions with people who might also be interested in the same rental house.
- Freedom to explore the rental home without a landlord or rental agent looking over your shoulder. You don’t have to feel rushed or conceal your true feelings about the property if you don’t like it. Many renters like the fact that no one is there to ask pointed questions or push them into making a quick decision. Hardly anyone wants to be rushed into decisions, particularly when it comes to choosing where they’ll live for the next several months or years.
Cons
- Occupied rentals won’t be available for self-guided tours. This measure is taken to protect the interests of the current tenant. Self-showings are best suited for leasing rental properties that are already vacant. For a rental that’s not yet vacant, you’ll need to be accompanied by the landlord or property manager during the tour.
- Questions will need to wait until after the self-guided tour. You can always send a text or email later, but you may forget certain questions during the tour.
- Potential to miss out on learning a lot of helpful information about the area. These are details that a landlord or professional leasing agent should provide when you tour a property. Without someone present, you may miss out on these details until further along in your search.
If you’re looking for a new home to rent in Auburn or nearby, Real Property Management Excelled offers flexible touring options for great homes near you. Feel free to check out our available rentals for more information and to schedule a viewing.
Originally Published on Aug 19, 2022
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