What to Ask When Touring Apartments

So you are shopping for your new home, and let's face it, you are overwhelmed! We get it, apartment shopping is not easy at all.

But no need to panic, Wise Owl Company has your back when it comes to finding your new apartment home! Just follow these tips, and make sure you ask the below questions when touring your potential new apartment!

What are the rent rates? Any move-in specials?

Before you set up a tour, make sure you are familiar with pricing. I have seen so many people come in for a tour and not know what the rent rates are. This is NOT good, because in order for the leasing specialist to best assist you, then they need to know what you are comfortable spending. Otherwise you may end up touring an apartment that is $1,000 above your price point!

Many times apartment complexes will offer move-in specials. Find out if you qualify for any move-in specials at the community you are touring. You may be surprised to receive a free month or two!

What is required to move-in?

Every apartment community is different when it comes to move-in requirements. Some apartment complexes require you to have a minimum credit score of 650, and others are fine with a lower credit score as long as you have a clean background and solid income. Most communities will require 2.5-3x the monthly rent. So make sure you ask what the requirements are.

Also, make sure you know what your move-in costs will be. Does the community require a deposit? Is only the first month required at move-in? This will allow you to budget accordingly.

What amenities are included?

Does the community offer amenities? If so, are they included in the rent? Or do you pay additional for the amenities? The pool may look lovely, but make sure you are not surprised when you need to pay an extra $100 per month for amenities access.

Ask about maintenance

Is there on-site maintenance? If there isn't, does maintenance respond quickly? What types of maintenance requests does maintenance service? Also, knowing how to file maintenance requests would also help. You should also figure out if the building has emergency maintenance as well.

Is the community pet friendly?

If you are looking to bring your four-legged friend with you, make sure the community you are touring accepts pets. Also, figure out what the pet fees are, if any.

Is parking included?

Usually this applies if you are looking for apartments for rent in Philadelphia, or other metropolitan areas. Parking is always a rare commodity (no joke!). Most apartment complexes in these types of places will charge an extra monthly parking fee. This can usually be anywhere from $50-$200 per month. So make sure you don't have any surprises when it comes to parking!

If the apartment complex offers free parking, take it and run!

Guest Policy

You should always know the guest policy at the building you are touring. If you are a social butterfly, living in a building that does not allow more than 1-2 guests may not be ideal for you.