When apartment hunting, you should always have a leasing specialist or landlord take you on a tour of the property. This blog covers everything you need to know for a successful walkthrough, key things to watch for, and expert tips to help you find the perfect home!
What Is a Walkthrough?
A walkthrough is a guided tour of an apartment where you're shown the suites layout, features and amenities. It allows you to see the apartment in person and decide if the apartment aligns with your lifestyle. It’s also an opportunity to inspect the space, ask questions and identify any potential issues.
What to Bring
When you're going to attend an apartment showing, we suggest bringing a few things to help you find the best apartment.
- Camera: For taking reference photos of the apartment’s features and documenting concerns. If the unit is currently occupied, be sure to get approval from the leasing specialist first!
- Flashlight: For inspecting darker areas like closets, under sinks, or basements.
- Measuring tape: Useful for measuring spaces to ensure your furniture will fit.
- Notepad & pen: Bring a checklist of items you want to look for during the walkthrough and to take notes as you go.
- Phone Charger: Perfect for testing electrical outlets.
Checklist
Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you inspect an apartment before signing a lease. From lighting to appliances, use this guide to ensure every detail meets your expectations:
1. General Lighting: Check that all lights are functioning and note the amount of natural light that enters the space.
2. Locks: Ensure all locks on doors and windows are secure.
3. Stairwells and Elevators: Evaluate their condition and cleanliness.
4. Entrances: Make sure they are well lit and feel safe.
5. Windows and Window Coverings: Check for drafts, functionality and the condition of blinds or curtains.
6. Laundry Facilities: Inspect their cleanliness and availability.
7. Ceilings and Walls: Look for cracks, water damage or peeling paint.
8. Cabinets: Open and close them to ensure they’re in good condition and have adequate storage.
9. Parking: Confirm the availability and condition of parking spaces, and check if they have electrical plug-ins for colder months.
10. Doors: Check that they close and latch properly.
11. Closets: Assess the amount of storage space.
12. Floors: Inspect for damage or wear.
13. Countertops: Ensure they are clean and free from damage.
14. Appliances: Test all appliances to make sure they’re functioning properly.
15. Electrical Outlets: Use your phone charger or another device to test outlets for functionality.
16. Water Pressure: Turn on taps to check the water pressure.
17. Toilet: Make sure it flushes properly and isn’t running.
18. Sinks, Tub and Shower: Check for drainage and water pressure.
19. Interior Lighting: Confirm all light fixtures work.
21. Noise: Pay attention to noise levels both inside the apartment and in the surrounding area.
22. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure they are present and functioning.
23. Outdoor Patio/Balcony: Inspect for safety and cleanliness.
Tips
Other Considerations
During an apartment walkthrough, keep an eye on these key but often overlooked details:
Amenities: Take a moment to explore the building's amenities, like the gym or pool. Pay attention to their condition and cleanliness—well-maintained amenities can greatly enhance your living experience.
Building Condition: Observe the overall upkeep of the building, note how common areas like hallways and lobbies are maintained. These areas are a useful indicator of attentive management.
Direction: Take note of which way the apartment faces, as it affects both natural light and indoor temperature. This is especially important if you’re a plant lover.
Cell Phone Reception: Don’t forget to test your phone’s reception inside the apartment. Good cell phone coverage helps you stay connected.
After the Walkthrough
After you've attended a showing and are narrowing down your apartment choices, here are some steps to ensure you make a well-informed decision:
Read the Reviews: After the showing, look up online reviews of the building and its management. Hearing directly from current or past residents provides valuable insights into what living there is really like.
Review the Lease: Carefully review the lease agreement once you've seen the apartment. It’s crucial to understand your rights and responsibilities as a resident, so you know exactly what you’re agreeing to.
Document Blemishes: Before moving in, take photos of existing damage or issues in the apartment and share these with your landlord so you won’t be held responsible for them later on.
What to Do If You Can’t View the Apartment
Not everyone can do an in-person walkthrough, but it's important to view a property before renting to avoid scams. Scammers often use fake photos of places they don't own or that don’t exist. Always try to visit the property and meet the manager. If they avoid meeting in person, it's a red flag.
If you can’t visit the property yourself, ask someone you trust to check it out for you. Alternatively, request a virtual tour or detailed video from the landlord or agent, and make sure to get clear photos of each room. Before signing the lease, review it carefully to ensure everything is correct. These steps will help you find the right home.
For more information on how to avoid rental scams, visit https://www.avenueliving.ca/blogs/how-to-avoid-rental-scams-as-a-renter-in-2024
Happy apartment hunting!