With the Coronavirus halting many "in person" apartment tours. We'd like to share with you some tips on how to search and lease an apartment "site unseen". We have been assisting our clients in leasing "site unseen" for years - due to many clients relocating from out of town. So we got the scoop!
1. MAKE A LIST OF TOP FAVORITE PROPERTIES
If you are utilizing our free locating service. Simply let your locator know which apartments you like best from your customized apartment list.
2. CHECK AVAILABILITY FOR YOUR MOVE DATE
Obviously, you need to know which apartments actually have availability matching your desired move date. You can do this on your own or your locator is happy to do this for you.
3. FIND OUT AS MUCH AS YOU CAN ABOUT THE "ACTUAL" UNIT
Rent rate?
What floor level?
Fees to apply?
Extra fees above rent rate?
Specials?
Unit features?
Parking?
Again, your locator is happy to do this for you!
4. PICTURES OR VIDEO OF ACTUAL UNIT
It's common for apartments to post images of "upgraded" or "premium units". If you are leasing "site unseen" it is extremely helpful to see the actual unit available. Most apartment staff will send you a video, virtual tour, or pictures of the "actual unit", if possible. Keep in mind the apartment staff may not have access to the actual unit if it is still occupied. In that case, you can ask for pictures of a unit that is an accurate representation of the unit you are interested in. If not available, find out:
What type of flooring? Color?
What type of counters? Color?
Cabinet color?
Appliance color?
View?
Again, your locator is happy to do this for you!
5. RENTAL QUALIFICATIONS, ONLINE APPLICATION PROCESS & LEASE SIGNING
Ready to apply?
First, you need to make sure you meet the apartment community's qualifying criteria...to reduce the chance of application denial.
Most apartments have online applications - a few don't and will likely be able to email you a paper application to complete.
Find out what additional documents they need from you. Most if not all, will require a valid copy of driver's license or government ID and recent check stubs or an offer letter.
Many apartments utilize online signature software so you can sign your lease online. If they don't they may opt to email it to you for your signature or have you sign when you pick up the keys!
BONUS TIP: Even if you can't tour the actual unit - we recommend doing a drive by! Drive through the community when possible. The best time to drive through is on a weekend or early evening before dark so you can take a look at the parking situation - as more people are at home during those times. Park near the unit you are considering and walk around the building. This way if there are any strange smells or excessive noise you can take note.
Nothing will ever beat an "in person" tour. We highly recommend "in person" tours when available. There are some things you just can't see from images/videos. Like the upkeep of the apartment community, noise levels, fine details, and smells/odors.
Need help finding your next apartment? We would love to assist you! . Start your apartment search today!
Comentários