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By Evelyn Long
When renting an apartment, a tour is essential for many people. It helps them envision if they can call the property home, so ensuring you provide an efficient apartment tour is vital. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
1. Set Up Your Time Blocks
Having set time blocks can create a more efficient process. It can allow you to schedule more tours in one day. It also makes it easier to provide concise information while adhering to a timeline. Therefore, try asking interested applicants to schedule appointments in 15-minute increments.
You maximize each applicant’s time by giving an introductory tour. If a tour wants additional time for questions, consider extending the time to 30 minutes while scheduling.
2. Make Sure Applicants Know What Documents to Bring
Suppose an applicant is serious about renting. Let them know what they need to bring, such as their ID, pay stubs, and bank statements. Have copies of the rental agreement on hand.
Both parties coming prepared makes the renting process more efficient. Also, remind them to bring along any questions they have to save time.
3. Have Virtual Tour Options
For some people, virtual tours are more convenient. Many renters may have busy work schedules or parenting responsibilities. Virtual showings are also beneficial to those who live out of town. It’s a good solution for potential applicants who know they need to view a property before moving forward, but lack the flexibility or time to see it in person.
When giving a virtual tour, be just as thorough as you would for an in-person one. Clean and stage the unit beforehand. During the event, show all rooms and amenities. In addition, have digital paperwork like rental applications ready to send electronically. Keep in mind: the best time for these tours is during the day when there is plenty of natural light.
4. Give Off a Friendly Vibe
First impressions matter. Remember: you want to sell the entire property, not just the apartment. That means you want potential renters to have a good impression of the staff. Greet people with a smile and a firm handshake.
Also, dress professionally and answer their questions thoroughly. Another way to leave a good impression is to find a connection with them. For example, do you have common interests, such as a sports team?
5. Follow Up With Potential Tenants
Following up is vital to keep the potential lead. Many renters will quickly close on the best deal in a hot market. If they find a better place, they may go somewhere else. Following up gives you a chance to solidify the sale.
Remind them about the amenities you offer and anything you talked about during the tour. Also, include information about any deals or open spots. Be sure to remind people about the submission deadlines so they’re not caught off guard.
6. Let in Natural Light
Natural light can improve your mental health and help you sleep better. It can also make the space feel larger and more welcoming. This can help seal the deal for an unsure applicant.
Therefore, open up the shades or use sheer curtains for staging. Also, turn on as many lights as possible. Another thing to remember is that light colors better reflect sunlight. Stick with neutral walls, such as shades of white and beige
7. Personalize Your Tour
Give each person a slightly different tour. This can help the prospective tenant feel special and more excited about the space. Ask what the person is looking for in an apartment, then tailor your showing based on their response.
Suppose they enjoy cooking? Highlight the newly remodeled kitchen with stainless-steel appliances. Plus, you could learn what they like to do in their spare time and describe some of the area’s popular attractions.
8. Give People Time to Explore
After giving them a general tour, let the renters walk around on their own. That way, they can explore the places and features they’re most interested in. It also gives them some breathing room so they feel less pressure.
In addition, it allows them privacy to think about their opinions without your input. However, stay close by to answer any questions. Consider hanging out near the main entryway.
9. Get Proper Feedback
Before the prospective tenant leaves, ask them for some feedback. What did they like about the property? Also, inquire about anything they were concerned about. If you don’t have time to ask for feedback in person, send a quick survey in your follow-up email.
Use this information to improve your customer experience and attract more clients. As you gather more input, you can learn what changes you could make for a more appealing experience.
10. Advertise Your Amenities
Many renters look for specific features when touring a complex. Swimming pools, fitness centers, and recreational spaces are all popular amenities. Another vital aspect is highlighting the overall atmosphere.
For example, do you host events, such as summer barbecues? Having a sense of community can help attract clients. In addition, gather residents’ testimonies to sell the space even more.
Tips for Designing an Apartment Tour
Apartment showing can sometimes feel like a hassle for both parties. Unorganized ones can potentially lose you an interested tenant. Follow these tips to enjoy a successful tour.
Author
Evelyn Long is the editor-in-chief of Renovated. Her real estate work has been published by the National Association of REALTORS®, Rental Housing Journal, and other online publications.
