When searching for a new rental home, touring the units is a key part of finding the perfect fit. However, organizing showings with property managers can be a lengthy process, particularly given 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 might explain why 83% of renters favor self-guided property tours over any other options.
While self-guided rental home tours have their advantages, they also have a few downsides. Before choosing a self-guided tour for your rental home search, it’s essential to consider both the pros and cons.
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 choose a suitable time, receive an access code, and visit the property whenever it works 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. There’s no need to feel pressured for time or hide your genuine reaction if the property doesn’t appeal to you. Some renters also appreciate not having someone present to ask intrusive questions or make them feel like they need to make a hasty decision. Few people appreciate being hurried into decisions, especially when it involves 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 in place to safeguard the current tenant’s interests. Self-showings are only suitable for renting out vacant properties. You’ll need to have the landlord or property manager with you to tour a rental that isn’t yet vacant.
- Questions will need to wait until after the self-guided tour. Though you can text or email someone later, you might forget to ask some questions during the tour.
- Potential to miss out on learning a lot of helpful information about the area. These are details that a landlord or professional leasing agent should provide when you tour a property. Without someone present, you may miss out on these details until further along in your search.
If you’re looking for a new home to rent in Beaverton or nearby, Real Property Management Solutions 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.
Originally Published on Aug 19, 2022
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