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Apartment touring 101: what to look for and which questions to ask.

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As you start to plan your apartment search, it’s essential to understand how to schedule a tour and what to look for as you view potential units. To optimize your apartment touring experience, you’ll want to have a comprehensive checklist, as well as a list of questions to ask the leasing agent. Being prepared, and having a guide of things to look for while touring apartments can help you quickly decide if a unit is the right fit. Use this apartment tour 101 guide to help you find your ideal new home.

Your complete guide to touring a new apartment

  • Why you should tour a potential unit
  • Setting up your apartment tour
  • What to where to an apartment tour
  • What to bring to an apartment tour
  • Questions to ask during the tour
  • What to look for during the tour
  • Things to avoid during an apartment tour

Why you should tour a potential apartment

It’s an old saying, “see it to believe it”, and this is especially true when selecting an apartment. You can get a lot of information from an online listing, but it’s never quite as thorough as touring the unit in person. In addition to avoiding potential rental scams , touring an apartment in person allows you to inspect the quality of the unit, gauge the noise level of the building, and survey the space you’ll have for your belongings and furnishings. While listing photos can give a general idea of the condition of the apartment, viewing in person can provide more clarity to any underlaying issues such as pests or leaks. In order to have a successful tour, there are the steps to take and tips to keep in mind.

Setting up an apartment tour

After searching apartment rental websites, locate the phone number of the leasing agent to secure a time to see the available unit. You may also have the option to request an apartment tour through the online leasing portal. After your initial contact, you’ll give the leasing agent your name and phone number and identify which apartment you’d like to view.

Next, set up a date and time to meet with the showing agent and confirm the address of where you’ll meet. Plan to spend anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour to thoroughly inspect the apartment and ask pertinent questions. Be punctual for your appointment slot, and if you need to cancel or reschedule, do so with advanced notice.

What to wear when touring apartments

You’ll want to look respectable when touring an apartment. The showing agent often has multiple people interested in any unit, so you will want to dress for success and set yourself apart from other potential applicants . Wear comfortable shoes and clothing since you may need to walk up multiple flights of stairs and be on your feet for some time.

What to bring with you to your appointment

Bring all of your necessary paperwork with you, such as your rental application , credit report, and a notebook and writing utensil to mark off your questions on your checklist. You may also want to bring measuring tape so that you can get initial measurements of the space and better identify if your current furnishings and belongings will accommodate the layout.

Essential questions to ask during an apartment tour

Asking these questions early on can help avoid any misunderstandings.

  • Can I have a roommate? If you think you’d like to share the apartment with a roommate, be sure to ask about roommate rules and regulations and bring your potential roommate with you to the showing.
  • What are your pet policies? Even though you’ve narrowed your search to apartments that allow pets, always cover your bases by asking about specific pet policies and deposits or fees.
  • What should I expect to pay for the first and last month’s rent?  Be clear about the first and last month’s rent  policies so that you can budget properly.
  • How much is the security deposit? You want to know how much to budget for the security deposit and the cleaning and maintenance requirements to receive your full deposit back at the end of your lease term. 
  • Are utilities included? Find out what utilities you will be responsible for paying and setting up, and if there are any building amenity utilities included in the price of rent.
  • What are the parking policies? Ask if you’ll have a designated parking spot or if parking is on a first-come, first-served basis. Most buildings will have an additional fee for reserved parking, so be sure to factor that cost into your monthly budget.
  • Can I sublet the apartment? Ask this question in case you have any plans to travel for an extended time and would like to have someone sublet the unit while you’re away.
  • How do I file a maintenance request? Ask this question so that you know how to go about the process of filling a maintenance request. Is the request submitted through an online form or via email? How long does it take for a maintenance issue to be resolved?

What to look for and tasks to perform during an apartment tour

  • Signs of pests or rodent infestations:  Look for droppings, signs of termites, ants, or cockroaches.
  • Check all the faucets in the apartment: Turn on the faucets in the kitchen bathroom sink, shower, and tub to ensure they’re functional and not leaking.
  • Flush the toilet: Make sure it flushes correctly.
  • Turn on all the lights and the ceiling fan: Test that the lights work as well as any fans. If the light doesn’t work, ask whether the bulb needs replacing or whether an electrical problem is the cause.
  • Test the thermostat:  You want to make sure that the heater and air conditioner work. Ask who’s responsible for changing the HVAC or ductless filters.
  • Test the stove and oven:  If it’s a gas appliance, ensure that it lights correctly and that there is no smell of leaking gas when in use. If electric, make sure the burners are heating properly.
  • Open the refrigerator, freezer, and all kitchen cabinets:  Find out whether the refrigerator and freezer are empty, clean, and in good working condition. Open the cabinets to ensure no pests and leftover food are present.
  • Test the electrical outlets:  Bring a small charger, such as a cellphone charger, and make sure the outlets work. Look for any burn marks around the outlets, and if you see any, point them out to the person conducting the tour.
  • Check the safety and security of the building and unit : While in the unit, confirm that the locks are fully functional and in good working condition. It’s also important to assess the safety of the building by asking about controlled entry and security cameras. Check the main doors to see if other tenants have propped open the doors, as this could be a safety concern down the line if not addressed.

What to avoid during an apartment tour

While you want to ask relevant questions and inspect the unit during your apartment tour, please try and avoid the following:

  • Being late for your appointment. Showing agents are generally quite busy, and you don’t want to waste their time by showing up late. In addition, when you show up on time, it shows your dependability.
  • Using the apartment bathroom . If you’ve been diligent about hydrating during your apartment tours, be considerate and use a public restroom for your personal needs.
  • Eating during the tour. Eat your sandwich or power bar before the tour to avoid spilling food in the apartment or trying to talk with your mouth full.
  • Overthink minor issues. Whether you’re looking at the top-floor apartment in the downtown area of your city or a basement apartment  near the university, try to overlook normal wear and tear that the apartment manager will fix before you move in.
  • Tour the apartment if it’s out of your price range . While looking at apartments out of your price range can make for a fun and fanciful afternoon, you’re taking time away from the showing agent to tour the apartment to a qualified renter.

FAQ: Touring a new apartment

If you are unable to tour a new apartment in person you have a few other options. One is to request a video tour with the property manager. This way you can still have the property manager show you the details of the unit and ask questions. Another option is to ask a friend or relative in the area to tour the apartment for you and take photos of the unit for you.

Your apartment tour generally shouldn’t take longer than 30 minutes. Leasing agents and property managers often have multiple tours booked in a day, so it’s important to show up on time and be prepared with any questions to utilize your time efficiently.

If you are running late to your appointment be sure to call the leasing office or landlord directly and give them a heads up. If you are going to be more than five minutes late you may want to reschedule. It’s important to make a good impression, so always do your best to be on time.

Absolutely. Once you’ve seen the apartment and have decided that it’s a good fit, you should fill out an application as soon as possible to ensure another renter doesn’t beat you to it. In some cases you’ll have to apply through an online portal, but you may also be able to fill out a paper application on-site. Come prepared with all of your information including recent paystubs, employment verification, check for the security deposit, and your I.D. in case you decide to apply for the unit ASAP.

Asking the right questions and knowing what to look for while touring apartments can successfully help you find the perfect new home. With available resources and diligent research, you can make apartment hunting fun.

Zumper's team of rental experts provides you with the latest rental tips, trends, and local laws to help you find great apartments and homes across the country.

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8 tips that will make going on your first apartment tour a little less stressful

We've got your back

Living room with mint blue couch

Going apartment hunting ? If you are reading this, you're probably thinking of moving into your own space, which is so, so exciting! You can decorate it how you want (well, within landlord-approved reason, obvi) and do what you want with your space. 

But, before you can enjoy your new pad, you've got to find it. The reality is, it can be a slightly tricky process. The good news is, I've been where you are and I'm here to help. 

But first, let's start with a confession: When I first toured an apartment I didn’t ask the right questions or look out for the right things and I really regretted it. I ended up moving into somewhere that was rather pricey for pretty little space. So now, whenever I tour a new apartment, I make sure to take my time, ask the right questions, and think critically about the space. And I'd recommend that you do too. 

I know, I know, it's easier said than done when you're in a rush to find the perfect apartment . However, it’s vital that when you go on your first apartment tour — or any apartment tour — that you make sure you’re checking the right things and asking lots of questions. 

1. Ask lots of questions

First things first, always ask lots of questions, even if things feel rushed. Remember, it’s your realtor or agent's job to make sure that they show you everything that you need to see and answer every query that you have, so don’t feel bad about taking up their time. At the time you’re probs going to feel a li'l overwhelmed by the whole process, so it’s worth writing a few questions down before your tour and taking them with you to refer to. This should help to make sure that, when it comes to your questions, you don’t end up missing anything. Not sure what to ask? Screenshot our list below.

What are some good questions to ask?

  • How long is the lease? Is there a subletting policy?
  • Are there any additional fees to be aware of?
  • Are utilities included and, if so, which ones?
  • How do I file maintenance requests?
  • Is the apartment pet-friendly and are there any additional fees that come with it?
  • Does the lease come with parking?

2. Check the electrical outlets

Electrical safety is no joke, so it pays to take this stuff seriously. I once rented an apartment that had unsafe power outlets. I only realized once I had moved in and saw sparks coming from one of them (after which, I promptly moved out). So, as you walk around the property, make sure to keep a close eye on the electrical sockets, checking that they’re properly attached to the wall, aren’t loose, and look in good working order. Not sure whether an apartment’s electricals are safe? Request that the realtor has them inspected before you move in. 

3. Look for signs of rodents or pests

It’s also a good idea to know how to spot the signs of rodents and other pests. As you tour the apartment, keep an eye out for rodent droppings (gross but seriously necessary), scratching sounds within the wall (this can be a sign of rodents or insects), and nibbled carpets or curtains. You can also ask the realtor if any problems with pests have previously been reported. 

4. Check for fire safety items

Don’t forget to think about fire safety. As you look around the apartment, you might want to focus on the aesthetic appeal that the property offers, but it’s vital that you take the time to check for fire safety features as well. You want to be looking out for well-placed fire alarms and checking that they actually work, or asking the realtor to check for you. You also need to check to see if the apartment has a fire extinguisher. And, it’s also worth noting whether the apartment complex has a fire escape and how you would access it in an emergency. 

5. Check the light fixtures and fans work

The last thing that you want is to move into an apartment and go to turn on the fan or lights, only to find that they don’t work, or aren’t working effectively. So, it’s important that when you’re touring an apartment you always check that they’re working properly.  

6. Make sure the oven and stove work properly

It’s a good idea to turn on the oven and stove while you’re touring the property so that you can check that both are working and safe to use. You'll be out of luck if you're unable to safely prepare and cook food there, so it's def worth checking that both work correctly. 

7. Run the water

Another important thing to check is that the water in the apartment runs properly and gets hot. So, make sure to turn a few taps on and off as you walk around. If you’re concerned about water pressure and having a powerful shower, it’s also worth turning on the shower and letting it run, so that you can see how good the pressure is. 

8. Check that the locks work

It’s also a good idea to ask the realtor to demonstrate the locks to you and to check that every lock is working correctly. Household safety is important, which is why making sure that the locks are secure and work effectively is so vital. 

Helpful tip: Don’t just check the door locks, also ask the realtor to check the locks on the windows too. 

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Hi! I’m Beth Mahoney and I’m a former staff writer at Real Homes. I’ve been a journalist for the national press for the past six years, specializing in commerce and trends-related lifestyle articles, from product reviews and listicles to guides and features. With an eye for pretty things (think: quirky wall prints, scalloped edge furniture, and decadent-looking tableware) but a limited budget, I love nothing more than a bargain buy.

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The Minimalists

Tour My Minimalist Apartment

apartment tour

The Allure of Minimalism in Photographs

Step inside my apartment for a moment. Welcome. I’m glad you could spend a few minutes chez Millburn. Please pardon the mess. Just kidding. Anyhow, walk this way, watch your step, I’ll show you around.

People are often intrigued by my living space, or rather by the idea of my living space, wondering what it looks like, how a minimalist really lives, often posing all sorts of voyeuristic questions: How many things do you own? What does your livingroom look like? Do you sleep on the floor?

But that’s okay—I understand the allure. When I first approached minimalism, lingering trepidatiously at its pristine white perimeter, I too wanted to see the material changes in people’s lives; I wanted to peek into their worlds to see whether minimalism was possible and to see if it was something I desired. Even then, I knew minimalism wasn’t ideal for everyone. After all, I didn’t want to be a monk, I didn’t want to live out of a bag and travel the world, and I certainly didn’t want to get rid of all my stuff and sulk in an empty apartment. Could I be happy as a minimalist?

When Ryan and I first started this website, I counted my things as a parody, showcasing the fact that I didn’t have the desire to be as extreme as some minimalists. In that essay you can see a picture of my beautiful loft apartment in downtown Dayton, Ohio, a capacious living space with hardwood floors and high ceilings, wide open and airy from brick wall to brick wall. It was not unlike something you’d see in a magazine (actually, it was featured in a couple magazines).

When I left my corporate job, however, I decided to downsize; I decided to reduce my expenses so I could afford to live my dream . So I moved into a small, one-bedroom apartment, not too far from the picturesque old loft.

At first, I wondered whether I could be as happy with my new apartment. Although the new place was clean, and it had wood floors and brick walls, it didn’t have the same “sexy” allure the loft had. Even the word “loft” sounds sexy, doesn’t it? Could I be content with this change? I wasn’t sure.

Fast-forward a year and, truth be told, I enjoy my new, smaller apartment more than my old loft—a feat I thought impossible a year ago. The elegance of minimalism transferred seamlessly to my new dwelling. Plus, my new apartment is brighter during the day, it’s quieter when I want to write, it’s located in a nicer neighborhood with 19th-Century brick homes and tree-lined streets and a beautiful park, and it’s closer to my favorite coffee shop and restaurants. Oh, and at $500 a month, it’s considerably less expensive than the loft.

Recently, a Norwegian magazine commissioned my friend, photographer Adam Dressler, to take a few photographs of my apartment for their organ. Below are some of the photos from that shoot (if you’re curious). Feel free to have a look around.

Photos of a Minimalist’s Apartment

(Click any picture to enlarge it.)

The first thing you’ll notice when you walk inside the apartment is its small entryway (if the apartment was larger, you might call it a foyer), containing a wall-mounted coatrack that holds a jacket, an umbrella, and a wool hat (courtesy of She Makes Hats ). And just ahead, you’ll find a red chair:

apartment tour

Walk up a flight of stairs (I’m not always perched on the bottom step laughing), and at the top of the steps you’ll see a small table topped with a bowl containing a few of the personal effects I take along on my daily walks (headphones, notebook, pen, etc.). There’s also an unplugged red phone  occupying the bottom shelf, a phone that represents my personal unplugging from the telecom industry (where I spent 12 years). Above this stand hangs a leather coat on the wall, a piece of clothing that’s also (accidentally) a piece of artwork when I’m not wearing it.

apartment tour

Living/Dining Area & Kitchen

From there, the majority of the apartment—dining/living area, kitchen, reading nook—are all contained in one bright, open space.

My dining table comfortably seats six (yes, I have the silverware to feed six, too):

apartment tour

It’s also a great place to work with a friend:

apartment tour

Near the dining table sits a tiny reading nook in which I spend many hours, though I’m typically not gazing out the window contemplatively (pictured), although I do do that from time to time:

apartment tour

Whenever I want to “think without thinking,” as the main character does in my novel,  As a Decade Fades , I pick up the guitar a play a few chords, searching the room’s empty spaces for euphony (I’m a surprisingly bad guitar player):

apartment tour

Between the dining area and the kitchen, sits a dividing wall/bar that serves as a casual eating surface:

apartment tour

After getting rid of 2,000 books , only a few remain. Where some people might shelve their cookbooks in the kitchen, I stack my writing books, a few of which are required reading in the online writing class I teach:

apartment tour

The kitchen cabinets hide everything unsightly from plain view, especially my wide assortment of herbal teas, not to mention the dish soap and (tucked away in the back) a nearly magical masticating juicer :

apartment tour

Bedroom & Writing Space

A small hallway leads you to the bedroom, in which of course you’ll find a bed, as well as a nearby writing space, which allows me to roll out of bed at 3:30 a.m. and write:

apartment tour

The nightstand next to the bed bears a duet of candles and a phone charger that doubles as an alarm clock—my only clock , in fact:

apartment tour

The nearby dresser supports a lamp, a candle, and an extremely complex stereo system (iPod doc). And its drawers even accommodate a handful of teeshirts:

apartment tour

Bedroom Closet

The bedroom closet carries the rest of my clothes and a few iron weights for my 18 minutes of daily exercise :

apartment tour

On Your Way Out

Oh, you have to go? Bummer! Well, before you make your way down the stairs, you can peek inside the bathroom and get a glimpse of the the guest towels:

apartment tour

The Benefits of My Minimalist Lifestyle

Clearly the above pictures don’t represent every single item in my apartment, although that is nearly everything. The apartment obviously has a toilet and a fridge and a shower. I also display digitally framed pictures on a shelf next to the writing books; cleaning supplies are lined neatly in a hallway closet next to an iron and ironing board; and even a washer and dryer are tucked away behind a sliding door in the bedroom. Plus I own other things not pictured, like, say, for example, a car and a single suit and a drawer of socks and underwear and a travel bag.

That said, my needs will change in time, and thus what I own will change, but I’ll continue to embrace minimalism as a way of living because the benefits are astounding (namely:  intentional living, personal freedom , deeper awareness , better health , improved relationships , individual growth , and meaningful contribution ).

There are plenty of fringe benefits from living my minimalist lifestyle, too, many of which I never anticipated. For example, I used to spend eight hours at a time cleaning my big, three-bedroom suburban house, vacuuming and mopping the floors, dusting every surface and knickknack; but my current apartment takes less than 45 minutes to clean, including mopping and scrubbing the bathroom. I didn’t have to “tidy up” before Adam took these photographs. Seriously. This is what my place looks like every day.

I remember the old days when I’d spend an entire weekend organizing junk, separating miscellanea into various organizing bins, using a complex item-dispersal system to separate my hoard; but now it’s easy to remain organized since I don’t own much to organize in the first place. Instead, I’ve discovered that it’s much easier to get rid of something than it is to clean or organize it. Empty spaces allow us to focus on ourselves and the people around us—to—find ourselves in spareness—not in the things we’re constantly trying to take care of.

The biggest fringe benefit, however, is the calm I feel when I return home. No longer am I worried about the wall-to-wall disorder. No longer am I bothered by the organized chaos. No longer am I discontent with my surroundings. My simple living space is calm, relaxed, serene.

Damn, it feels good to come home.

Update: In the fall of 2012, I moved to a cabin in Montana . Then, until late 2017, I lived in a minimalist home , in Missoula, with my wife, Rebecca, and our daughter, Ella. We now live in a minimalist apartment in Los Angeles.

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Top Questions to Ask on an Apartment Tour

New to apartment hunting? You're in for a whirlwind of activity and fun! Find out what to expect on your go-around and the apartment tour questions you should ask to help you find the perfect one.

What’s the Big Deal, Anyway?

Business icon Robert Half once said that asking the right questions takes as much skill as giving the right answers. Our mission is to help you know the right questions to ask when touring an apartment, so you can find the best apartment in no time.

After all, an apartment tour isn’t just a five-minute ordeal. An apartment tour gives you the chance to find out if the place is right for you and helps you avoid any unpleasant surprises. It’s the closest thing you’ll have to a test drive before move-in.

Don’t leave anything to chance! Find out if that apartment should be your next move by asking apartment managers these questions:

Questions About the Apartment

Money matters.

  • Is there an application fee?
  • What is the deposit amount? Is it refundable?
  • Does the apartment require renters insurance ?
  • When is the rent due?
  • What forms of rent payment are acceptable? (cash, check, charge/debit)
  • Can I pay rent online or through EFT?
  • Is there a grace period for late payments?
  • Which, if any, utilities are included in my rent? (water, gas, cable, trash, etc.)
  • How are utility costs calculated for each tenant?
  • Which, if any, additional deposits, fees, or charges should I be aware of?
  • Are there currently any offers or discounts available on the apartment?
  • For how long is the lease? Can I renew?
  • What happens if I have to break the lease?
  • What recourse do I have if I decide to leave for a reason related to poor conditions, lease violations, delayed maintenance, etc.?
  • Do I incur an expense if anything in the apartment needs to be repaired?

If you have any questions about the types of leases you may encounter, we have answers for you.

Making It Home

  • What is the apartment guest policy?
  • Can I have pets in the apartment?
  • What, if any, changes can I make to the inside of the apartment? (painting walls, hanging photos, replacing light fixtures, etc.)
  • Are window treatments included?
  • Am I allowed to add a roommate?
  • Under what conditions can the property manager enter my apartment?

Questions About the Apartment Complex

Hours and access.

  • What are the leasing office hours?
  • What are the hours of the facilities (pool, fitness center, laundry facility, etc.)?
  • Do any of the facilities require an extra fee to access?
  • Are washers and dryers available? During what hours?
  • How are maintenance requests made?
  • Is 24-hour emergency maintenance available?
  • Is a parking fee or permit required?
  • How many spaces are available for each tenant and guests?

Health and Safety

  • Are individual apartment locks changed between occupants?
  • How is access to the apartment building handled?
  • What is the crime rate for the area?
  • Do residents consider the complex safe at night?
  • How many times have police been dispatched to the building/complex/area in the last three years?
  • Where are the fire extinguishers located?
  • What security measures — including fire and carbon monoxide detectors — are deployed throughout the building/complex?
  • How often is each building checked for mold?
  • Is smoking allowed in the building or on the premises?
  • How should I deal with noisy neighbors?

Questions About the Area

  • Are there plans to make upgrades to the complex or nearby area?
  • What’s the neighborhood like?
  • How long have you managed this apartment location?
  • Where is the nearest public transit? (subway, bus, etc.)
  • For how many years do tenants typically stay in the complex?
  • Is subletting, or using a service like Airbnb, allowed?
  • How many apartment/parking garage/storage unit break-ins or attempted break-ins have occurred within the complex in the last three years?
  • Would you characterize the area as having a pest problem?

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It’s important to know if your existing furniture is going to fit into your new space!s

Using the measuring tools on the Matterport, you are able to measure the space and see how well your furniture is going to fit!

Our scans provide real dimensions so that you can easily visualize how your furniture will fit into your new space.

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Scan your own furniture or choose from our catalogue so that you can style your room and feel confident that your furniture will fit in the space just as you have styled it.

You are designing using furniture from our catalog and have decided it is the perfect piece for you, what is the next step?

We have a variety of artwork and furniture for you to choose from! Simply select the item you are interested in and place it within your space. If you love it, you can buy it and we will ship it to your new home.

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Now with AR, you are able to test items before you buy, virtually!

Scan your space easily with your device, then add in your favorite pieces before you purchase.

Our scans are hyperrealistic. Allowing you to visualize your space and furniture in a new way that allows you to imagine what your space will look like in reality.

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The 25 Best Questions To Ask When You Tour an Apartment

Last Updated: December 21, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was reviewed by Seth Hall and by wikiHow staff writer, Devin McSween . Seth T. Hall (ICF ACC, CLC, and MNLP) is a Certified Life Coach and Founder of Transformational Solutions, a Los Angeles-based life-coaching company that helps people achieve their toughest goals, find their own voice, and think outside the box. He has been a life coach for over 10 years, specializing in personal development, relationships, career and finance, and wellness. He has helped his clients break the negative cycles in their lives and replace them with a positive, proactive mindset. Seth believes that everyone has the potential to live a fulfilling and rewarding life, and works passionately to help them reach their full potential. With a deep understanding of how our minds work and the power of positive thinking, he encourages his clients to find their unique paths in life and find success on their own terms. He is a certified master practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming, a featured co-author for WikiHow, and co-author of "The Mountain Method”, “The Happy Tiger”, and “The V.I.S.I.O.N.S. Program”. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 19,757 times.

You're touring a new apartment and are excitedly envisioning how you’ll arrange the living room and where you’ll display your favorite photos and knick knacks. Before you ask to sign the lease right then and there, there are some questions you should ask on your tour to determine if the place fits your budget, needs, and vibe. To help you find your dream place, we’ve compiled a list of the best questions to ask when you’re touring an apartment. These questions will give you clarification about your lease, identify any dealbreakers, and make sure your apartment is the right place for you.

Things You Should Know

  • Ask how long your lease is for and if you have to pay a security deposit when you sign it.
  • Ask if utilities are covered in your rent and how laundry and parking are handled.
  • Ask if you can bring your pet, have guests over, or make changes to the apartment.

“How long is the lease?”

Find out what the lease period is.

  • This question will also tell you the date you can move into the apartment and when you have to leave.
  • Always ask for a copy of the lease to protect yourself as a tenant .

“Are utilities included in the rent?”

See if water, electricity, gas, and internet are included with the rent.

  • “How much do utilities typically cost?”
  • “Do I have to set up utilities myself ?”
  • “Is there a charge for setting up utilities or installing internet?”

“Do you require a security deposit?”

Ask how much the security deposit is and whether it’s refundable.

  • The security deposit ensures that your landlord has money to cover any damages to the apartment.
  • Take good care of your apartment in order to get your security deposit back.

“Do you have a pet policy?”

Ask if there is a fee for pets and how many you can have.

  • Be sure to also ask if the complex only allows certain breeds on their premises.

“Does the apartment have a laundry facility?”

Ask if there are washers and dryers in the unit or in the building.

  • “How many washers and dryers are available?”
  • “Do I have to pay to use the laundry facilities?”

“What are your parking policies?”

Figure out if parking is assigned, limited, and free.

“What is your policy on subletting?”

Find out if you can rent your apartment out.

“Do you require renters insurance?”

Determine if you need to purchase renter’s insurance.

  • Even if they don’t require it, it’s a good idea to get renters insurance to protect your belongings.

“Can I add a roommate?”

See if you can add a roommate to your lease at a later date.

“Do you have a guest policy?”

Note how long guests can stay and where they can park.

“Is there a penalty for breaking the lease?”

Note if there are situations when you can leave the lease early.

“Do you have a pest control policy?”

Determine how often pests are sprayed for and whether they’re an issue.

“Can I test out the lights and water pressure?”

Check how well the electricity and plumbing works in the apartment.

“Can I make changes to the apartment?”

Ask about decorating policies and how you need to leave the apartment.

“Are there any amenities?”

Note if the apartment offers extra facilities and if they cost a fee.

  • “What are your amenity policies? Can I bring guests with me?”

“What is the neighborhood like?”

Meet your neighbors and ask about fun things to do in the area.

“Do you have a smoking policy?"

See if smoking is allowed in the apartment or on the premises.

“Are there any security features for the apartment or complex?”

Ask if there are any features that keep the apartment safe.

“Are there plans to update the building?”

Find out if you’ll be dealing with construction or an outdated apartment.

“How much is the rent?”

Find out if the apartment rent is within your budget.

“When is rent due?”

See when you’ll pay rent each month.

  • “Is there a fee if I turn in my rent late?”
  • “Is there a grace period for late payments?”

“How are rent payments made?”

Find out what payment methods are accepted and preferred.

“How often does rent go up?”

Find out if you can expect to pay more for rent in the future.

“Is there an application fee?”

Check if there is a fee for processing your application.

“Is there anything you need for the application process?”

Ask if you need to provide your employment history or a background check.

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  • ↑ https://case.edu/housing/services/campus-housing/questions-ask-renting
  • ↑ https://www.rent.com/blog/what-is-a-security-deposit/
  • ↑ https://www.ufsa.ufl.edu/uploads/ocl/tour_questions-ocl.pdf
  • ↑ https://www.doorsteps.com/articles/questions-you-should-ask-when-touring-new-apartments
  • ↑ https://www.transparentcity.co/blog/10-questions-to-ask-before-renting-an-apartment-in-nyc
  • ↑ https://www.uakron.edu/offcampus/docs/Apartment-tour-sheet.pdf
  • ↑ https://www.rent.com/blog/how-to-do-a-virtual-apartment-tour/
  • ↑ https://www.npr.org/2021/08/24/1030659258/looking-for-a-new-apartment-heres-a-checklist-to-help-with-the-housing-hunt
  • ↑ https://www.apartments.com/blog/smoking-and-rental-properties-what-are-your-rights
  • ↑ https://www.mass.gov/info-details/tenant-rights
  • ↑ https://www.apartments.com/rental-manager/resources/article/what-to-know-about-rental-application-fees
  • ↑ https://www.apartments.com/blog/what-will-be-reviewed-with-my-rental-application

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Take a Tour of the Chic Paris Apartment with Views of the Eiffel Tower on Food Network’s “Next Baking Master: Paris”

In the new Food Network series, premiering May 6, U.S. bakers travel to France to compete for the title of Next Baking Master

American cooks are saying bonjour to France in Food Network’s latest competition series, Next Baking Master: Paris .

Hosts Stephanie Boswell and Ludo Lefebvre are bringing 10 bakers to the City of Lights to learn, taste and bake French pastries. PEOPLE has an exclusive look at the first episode, which premieres on May 6. In it, the bakers tour the stunning Parisian apartment they will stay in after full days of croissants and macaroons.

The 10 competitors eagerly hop out of their cars to see the apartment. After pushing through grand entryway doors, they trudge up a beautiful, winding staircase — giving each other words of encouragement to make it upstairs with their large luggage.

“I’m sweating,” one contestant says. Another chef replies, “I think it’ll all be worth it.”

As soon as they open the doors, they learn it was in fact, worth it. The group awes at the sunlight-filled apartment with colorful artwork on the walls, wooden pillars in the living rooms and marble fireplaces.

“We are chic here,” says Paige, a chef from Brooklyn.

The views may be even more stunning than the interior. Everyone takes turns admiring their unobstructed view of the Eiffel Tower, which can be seen from their living room windows and from the balconies.

The contestants take a lackadaisical approach to choosing their specific rooms because they are all equally beautiful. Two chefs look out of the window to see a grandiose French street.

“Are you kidding me? I’m literally red,” says one chef, blushing from excitement.

For some contestants, being in France and competing on Next Baking Master: Paris is a massive milestone.

“This is kind of a dream for me, you know, being in Paris,” says Robert, a baker from Willingboro, N. J. “You know, I grew up in a rough neighborhood in Philly and poor. It's so easy to be inspired here.”

Related: Vanderpump Villa Stars 'Know How to Serve' in 'Glamorous' First Teaser for Lisa Vanderpump's New Show

To celebrate their abode and the start of the competition, the cast pops a bottle of champagne and clink their drinks for a “cheers” to Next Baking Master.

“May the sweetest one win,” one chef adds.

Every week, the 10 bakers will visit iconic pastry shops, like Ladurée, and be mentored by famous French chefs. Weekly baking challenges will send the lowest scoring chef back to America until a winner is crowned and given a full suite of kitchen appliances and baking equipment valued at $25,000.

Next Baking Master: Paris premieres May 6 at 9 p.m. ET on Food Network.

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People .

Next Baking Master: Paris Cast

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