If you’re looking for a new rental home, you understand that touring units is crucial to finding the right one. That said, coordinating showings with property managers can be a time-consuming process, especially in our busy 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 could be why 83% of renters choose self-guided property tours over all other methods.
While self-guided rental home tours have their advantages, they also have a few downsides. Considering the pros and cons is crucial before selecting a self-guided tour in your rental home search.
Pros
- Convenient for those with busy schedules. Unlike a traditional tour, which requires meeting with a landlord or rental agent, self-guided tours are designed for you to access the property at your convenience. You pick a time that suits you, receive an access code, and visit the property when it’s convenient for you.
- For security purposes, self-guided tours are never double-booked which prevents you from having awkward encounters with others who may be competing for the same rental home.
- Freedom to explore the rental home without a landlord or rental agent looking over your shoulder. You won’t need to feel hurried or hide your honest reaction if the property isn’t to your liking. 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 ensures the protection of the current tenant’s interests. Self-showings are only suitable for renting out vacant properties. 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 text or email someone afterward, but some questions might slip your mind during the tour.
- Potential to miss out on learning a lot of helpful information about the area. A landlord or leasing agent should be able to share this information with you when you view the property. If no one is present, you may not find out about these things until later in your search.
If you’re looking for a new home to rent in Mt. Lebanon or nearby, Real Property Management Keystone 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.
