How to Tour a Rental Property Safely: Virtual & In-Person Guide

In today's rental market, leveraging virtual tours is the most effective first step for evaluating properties, while in-person visits require specific safety precautions. This guide outlines a strategic approach to touring rentals, from initial online screening to safe physical walkthroughs, ensuring you can make an informed decision without compromising your well-being.

Why Should You Prioritize Virtual Tours?

Virtual tours provide a comprehensive sense of a property's layout and flow that photos alone cannot offer. They allow you to efficiently narrow down your options from the comfort of your home, saving significant time and effort. There are several types of virtual tours to look for:

• Video Walkthroughs: If a listing doesn’t include a video, it is reasonable to ask the landlord or property manager (the individual or company responsible for the operation of the rental) if one is available. They may have a recorded video from a previous inspection.
• 3D Home Tours: These interactive tours, often marked with a “3D Home” label on listings, let you navigate from room to room at your own pace. You can suggest a landlord create one using a smartphone app.
• Live Video Chats: For a real-time look, you can request a live video walkthrough via a preferred app, especially if the unit is vacant or the current tenant has approved viewings.

Based on our experience assessment, starting with virtual tours significantly streamlines the search process, helping you identify only the most promising properties for a subsequent in-person visit.

What Are the Key Safety Measures for an In-Person Tour?

If you decide an in-person tour is necessary, planning and precaution are essential. Following guidelines from health authorities like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) ensures your safety and that of others.

• Wear a Mask: Continue to wear a well-fitting mask in indoor public settings, especially when physical distancing is not possible.
• Maintain Distance: Keep at least 6 feet of distance from the landlord, agent, or any other prospective tenants during the tour.
• Minimize Contact: Make a conscious effort to avoid touching surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops whenever possible.
• Practice Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after the tour. If unavailable, use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
• Bring Your Own Supplies. Do not assume supplies will be provided on-site; carry your own hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.

It is also crucial to reschedule your tour if you or anyone in your household has felt unwell within the prior 14 days. This responsible action protects everyone involved.

How Can You Prepare for an Effective Rental Tour?

Whether virtual or in-person, preparation is key to a successful tour. Create a checklist of your non-negotiable criteria and questions to ask the landlord. During a virtual tour, don’t hesitate to ask the presenter to zoom in on specific areas, such as cabinet space, appliance condition, or views from the windows. For an in-person visit, having your checklist on hand ensures you assess all important aspects and can compare properties objectively later.

To make the most of your rental search, begin with a thorough virtual screening and reserve in-person visits for your top choices. Always prioritize your health by adhering to established safety protocols, and come prepared with a list of questions to ensure the property meets your needs.