When searching for a new rental home, touring the units is a key part of finding the perfect fit. However, setting up showings with property managers can take up a lot of time, especially when life is busy.
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. 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 request a time that works for you, receive an access code, and visit the property at your chosen time.
- For security purposes, self-guided tours are never double-booked, ensuring you won’t have awkward encounters with others who might be competing for the same rental.
- 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. Some renters also appreciate not having someone present to ask intrusive questions or make them feel like they need to make a hasty decision. People generally don’t want to be rushed into decisions, especially when it’s about where they’ll live 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 best suited for leasing rental properties that are already vacant. 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. You can always send a text or email later, but you may forget certain 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 accompanying you, you might not learn about these things until later in your search.
If you’re looking for a new home to rent in Edmond or nearby, Real Property Management Resources 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.
