A complete guide to viewing a rental apartment

It’s no secret the rental market is fast-paced and tricky to navigate, especially for first-time renters. Property is in high demand and rent is on the rise, so you need to get ahead of the game to make quick, well-informed decisions.

Before signing on the dotted line and getting locked into a lease, you need to be sure you’ve got the right place.

That’s why we’ve put together a no-nonsense guide to help you through every stage of viewing an apartment. We break down the process step-by-step, to make it easier for you to find your dream rental and apartment hunt with confidence.

Whether you’re a first-time renter or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you view an apartment effectively, before you spend your hard-earned cash.

So, don’t start packing boxes or choosing furniture yet, study this guide to land your perfect place.

You’ve saved, set a budget and created Pinterest boards. Finally, it’s time to view some apartments. Sure, you get a feel for a place through photos or virtual tours, but there’s nothing like an in-person viewing. No staged photo will give you that gut feeling.

First off, you need a plan! You can’t jump feet first into this long-term commitment without one. It’s easy to get carried away researching your perfect pad and dreaming about how you’ll put your stamp on it. Before signing on the dotted line, preparation is key. It will save you time, money, and headaches in the long run and help you make more informed decisions. That’s why we’ve rustled up a handy checklist for you.

Invest in a notepad to jot down ideas during the viewing and have a list of questions ready for the landlord or real estate agent, so you’re not caught on the fly. Who knows, your notes could help when negotiating the starting rent.

Pack your phone or camera to take photos of each apartment. The appointments blur into one if you’re seeing several in a day and you might forget the details.

A measuring tape is a must-have tool to take. It’s super handy for checking room dimensions for furniture, so you can visualize how to set up the space. 

And bring your ID just in case as some landlords or agents might ask to see it before viewing. 

Property management companies like Ziprent and RealT are familiar with prospective renter questions. Ask about rent prices and what’s included, security deposits, lease terms, pet policies or parking. Whatever your priorities are, no question is too big or too small. This is going to be your home for a long time, so go prepped and ask away!

It’s not a fashion show, but if you’ve scheduled a few viewings in one day (weekends work well for this), wear comfy clothes and shoes. It can be an exhausting process, pounding the streets all day. Your poor feet will thank you for it. And make sure you have water and snacks to keep your energy up and spirits high.

Stay one step ahead of the pack by researching apartment buildings before viewing them. Read reviews from current tenants, find out neighborhood crime rates, the quality of schools, transport links and amenities.

You could try rental search apps like Zillow and Trulia to search for apartments and find estimated rent prices. And why not explore other rental companies or apps on Trustpilot?

Renting an apartment is a big decision. Follow these simple steps to ensure you make the most out of viewing an apartment. Do thorough research and ask plenty of questions to secure your perfect home.

Get ready to channel your inner detective. It’s time to inspect your potential home!

View rental properties like those at Apartment List and MacKenzie Smith during the day when flaws will be more obvious. Play a game of apartment bingo as you check off your must-haves and deal-breakers while touring the space.

To get you off the starting blocks, we’ve compiled a room-by-room checklist of what to look out for when viewing an apartment, to keep your property consultant on their toes:

• Are there any cracks, structural issues or water damage on the exterior of the building?

• Is the outdoor space clean and common areas well-maintained?

• Are there any outdoor security lights and entry phones?

• If you have a garden, is there enough spacefor outdoor furniture?

• Is there ample car parking?

• Are kitchen appliances clean and in good condition?

• Check cabinetry and countertops for signs of wear and tear. Do drawers open properly? Is there enough countertop space?

• Do faucets have good water pressure? Are there signs of leaks?

• Is there space for a table and chairs if you have them?

• Will the storage space hold all your cookware?

• Are there safety measures in place? Such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide detectors.
  

• Do the sink, shower and tub have optimum water pressure? Are they functional and in good condition?

• Is the toilet functional and does it flush well?

• Are there enough shelves and cabinets for toiletries? If not, is there room to add your own?

• Can you see any sign of damp, mold or leaks?

• Is there enough lighting?

• Is there enough natural light?

• Whether it’s carpet, wood or vinyl, check the flooring for signs of damage.

• Will your furniture fit?

• Check the condition of walls, floors and ceilings for cracks

• Are the windows and doors sealed? Do they open and close properly?

• Will your bedroom furniture fit the room?

• Is there enough natural light?

• How are the noise levels? Would you be able to get a restful night’s sleep?

• Do built-in closets have enough shelves and hanging rods?

• Are there enough outlets for bedside lamps?

• Test all electrical outlets and light switches. How many are there and do they look safe?

• Can you see any signs of pests or infestations?

• Is the decor good throughout the apartment?

• Does the neighborhood and apartment building feel safe?

• What are the neighbors like? Ask current tenants or letting agents for their feedback.

• Check the temperature control for heating and air conditioning systems.

• Is there enough storage for all your belongings?

Take your time investigating the apartment for damage or potential issues to avoid unpleasant moving-in day surprises. Don’t be afraid to ask the landlord or letting agents like Lighthouse questions about the apartment, complex or neighborhood while you’re there.

Now you’re a step closer to finding your dream rental, you can pick your top apartments. There may be a front-runner, but it’s best to have a backup in today’s competitive rental market.

The property you choose needs to fit your lifestyle and long-term plans, so you’ll need to weigh up the pros and cons. Do the amenities meet your needs? Are there good transport connections for your commute? Does the area feel safe? Are the common areas and roads noisy? Ask yourself all the hard questions to ensure you’ll be happy with your pick.

Don’t over-stretch yourself financially. Compare the rent price with apartments in the same area, to check if it’s fair amount. Rental prices can increase each year, so negotiate to get the best deal.

Before finalizing your decision, don’t ignore any last-minute niggles. Contact the landlord or real estate agency to clarify any doubts or uncertainties from the viewing. And if you need a sounding board, get feedback from friends or family who can give you fresh perspectives. 

And there you have it - your step-by-step guide to viewing an apartment to rent. Follow these simple tips and you’ll feel confident as you embark on your apartment-hunting journey.

Trustpilot has a wealth of resources to help guide you through every stage of the rental process, from furniture rental to moving in checklists and all you need to know about renters insurance.

Now it’s time to get your search on. Good luck, have fun and happy apartment hunting!

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