When searching for a new rental home, touring different units is an essential part of finding the perfect match. 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.
Self-guided rental home tours certainly offer many perks, but they do come with some drawbacks. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons before opting for a self-guided tour in your rental home search.
Pros
- Convenient for those with busy schedules. Unlike traditional tours, which require scheduling a meeting with a landlord or agent, self-guided tours allow you to visit the property at your convenience. You select a convenient time slot, get an access code, and visit the property at your leisure.
- 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. Moreover, some renters enjoy the absence of someone asking revealing questions or pressuring them to decide on the spot. Most people don’t like being rushed into decisions, especially important ones like where they’ll be living for the next few months or years.
Cons
- Occupied rentals won’t be available for self-guided tours. This is intended to protect the interests of the current tenant. Self-showings are appropriate only for leasing vacant properties. You must be accompanied by the landlord or property manager to tour a rental that’s not yet vacant.
- Questions will need to wait until after the self-guided tour. While you can always text or email your questions later, some may slip your mind during the tour.
- Potential to miss out on learning a lot of helpful information about the area. These are things that a landlord or leasing professional should explain to you when you tour a property. Without someone there, you might not learn about these details until later in your search.
If you’re looking for a new home to rent in Oakland Park or nearby, Real Property Management Coral 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.
