Blog Post

What to Look For During an Apartment Showing

July 6, 2020
Before signing a lease or putting down a deposit on a new apartment, it is important that you get a thorough tour of the property. When going in for an apartment showing, there are several steps that you should complete before moving forward with an apartment.

Especially when you are navigating the apartment hunting process for the first time, it is easy to become overwhelmed. This could potentially cause you to overlook details that could be major inconveniences in the future.

Consider the following when touring an apartment (you can take this along as checklist):

Safety

Safety is a crucial factor in apartment hunting that should not go unnoticed. In addition to researching the safety of the apartment’s surrounding location, you should be thorough in checking safety features within the apartment.
  • Ask if there is a security system in place.
  • Test the locks on each of the doors in the unit.
  • Open and close all windows in the unit and test the window locks.
  • Locate carbon monoxide detectors within the unit.
  • Locate fire safety features including smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and/or sprinklers.

Functionality

Evaluating the functionality within an apartment is the most important goal to accomplish when touring an apartment. Not only should you make sure that the apartment is equipped with the essentials, but also that the amenities are in good working condition. Prospective renters should leave no stone unturned when determining whether or not an apartment is safe and well-maintained.
  • Check for all of the essential kitchen appliances: refrigerator, stove/oven, etc. Test that they are all working properly.
  • Test all of the sinks and faucets on the property. Make sure that they all have satisfactory water pressure and temperature.
  • Check that all of the toilets in the apartment flush properly.
  • Test all of the lights and light switches for functionality.
  • Search throughout the apartment for evidence of current or recent pest control problems. Ask neighbors if they have experienced issues with pests.
  • Check windows and doors for openings and drafts.
  • Locate all of the electrical outlets throughout the apartment. Are these outlets located conveniently throughout the apartment?
  • Check that you receive adequate cell phone service throughout the apartment.
  • Locate the circuit breaker for the unit.
Although important, functionality concerns are not always deal-breakers. If you notice fixable issues with appliances or light fixtures, be sure to document them with photographs to ask about later.

Amenities

When touring an apartment, evaluating functionality and determining amenities go hand-in-hand. Try to get answers to the questions you have as you tour the apartment and write down notes to help you later on in the process.

  • Determine laundry procedure. If there is not a washer and dryer in-unit, ask if there is a shared laundry space for tenants and if this comes at an extra cost per use. Ask to see the shared laundry area if there is one. Is there an adequate amount of washers and dryers for the number of residents? Do the appliances appear to be well-maintained and working properly?
  • Ask about the pet policy. If you currently have a pet or may want one in the future, this is a crucial factor in your apartment search. This is also important if you have pet allergies that may be affected if roommates or neighbors have a furry friend.
  • Determine whether or not there is a dishwasher and/or garbage disposal.
  • Ask if there is a parking lot or designated parking area for residents. If there is not, evaluate street parking in the surrounding area.
  • If your prospective apartment is in a building or complex, tour common areas as well as your specific unit.
Everyone has different needs when it comes to an apartment — factors that are deal breakers for one renter may be unimportant to another renter. Determine your wants and needs in an apartment and amend this list as necessary.

Remember that you are touring an apartment so that you can determine whether or not the property is a good fit for you. Do not rush through an apartment tour because you may run into some major problems down the road! Take your time touring an apartment and ask questions freely.

Share this post

Tips For Transforming Your Rented Living Space

By 1948337 • September 23, 2024
Discover creative, budget-friendly tips for transforming your rented living space into a cozy and personalized home without breaking lease agreements or upsetting your landlord.

Experience The Ultimate Philly Food Tours You Can't Miss!

August 14, 2024
Explore Philly’s vibrant culinary scene with the best food tours, from cheesesteaks to international delights. Book now!

Find The Perfect Pet-Friendly Apartment In Philly

July 26, 2024
This article will explore the benefits of pet-friendly apartments, and we’ll provide pet-friendly apartment listings in Philadelphia that are ideal for living with animals.
Show More
Share by: