Searching for a new rental home involves touring units, which is a big part of finding the perfect fit. Arranging showings with property managers, however, can be quite time-consuming, particularly in our hectic lives.
Digital technology advancements have brought us listings filled with photos and virtual walk-throughs, but these tools sometimes aren’t sufficient to fully experience the property. This might explain why 83% of renters favor self-guided property tours over any other options.
While self-guided rental home tours have many advantages, they come with a few disadvantages as well. Before choosing a self-guided tour for your rental home search, it’s essential to consider both the pros and cons.
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 suitable time, receive an access code, and visit the property whenever it works for you.
- 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. There’s no need to feel pressured for time or hide your genuine reaction if the property doesn’t appeal to you. Some renters also prefer not having anyone around to ask prying questions or make them feel rushed into a 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 is in place to safeguard the current tenant’s interests. Self-showings are only suitable for leasing properties that are unoccupied. To tour a rental that’s still occupied, you’ll need to be accompanied by the landlord or property manager.
- Questions will need to wait until after the self-guided tour. Though you can text or email someone later, you might forget to ask some questions during the tour.
- Potential to miss out on learning a lot of helpful information about the area. These are points that a landlord or professional leasing agent should cover when you view a property. If no one is with you, you may only discover these details later in your search process.
If you’re looking for a new home to rent in Lowell or nearby, Real Property Management NW Indiana 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.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.