What to Bring for an Apartment Tour: A Comprehensive Checklist

Imagine this: you're standing outside the apartment of your dreams, but as the door opens, you realize you’re missing something critical. Maybe it’s your tape measure, maybe it's your list of questions, or perhaps you forgot to bring your ID for the application. The stakes are high, and missing even one item could mean the difference between securing the apartment or losing it. So, what exactly do you need to bring to avoid any last-minute stress?

Let's dive right into the essentials you need for an apartment tour, so you're 100% prepared to make the best decision when the time comes.

1. Identification (ID) and Financial Documents

Whether it's your driver's license, passport, or another form of identification, you’ll need to prove who you are. Property managers and landlords often require this, especially if you're filling out an application on the spot. Not having these crucial documents could delay or even cancel your opportunity to secure the apartment.

Also, it's smart to have recent pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements ready to show proof of income. Landlords need assurance that you can afford the rent, and showing up without these documents could reduce your chances of getting approved.

• Checklist:
  • Driver’s license or passport
  • Recent pay stubs
  • Bank statements
  • Tax returns (if needed)

2. Tape Measure: Size Matters

How often do people visit an apartment and fall in love with it—only to realize later that their furniture doesn't fit? To avoid this, bring a tape measure. Measure the doorways, rooms, and any oddly shaped nooks where you might want to place furniture. A few minutes of measuring could save you hundreds of dollars on furniture returns or the hassle of reconfiguring your layout.

Knowing the exact measurements also helps with visualizing your current furniture in the new space, saving you from unnecessary stress after moving in.

• Checklist:
  • Tape measure (preferably at least 25 feet long)
  • Notepad or smartphone to record measurements

3. A Phone or Camera: Capture Everything

Visual memory is often unreliable, especially if you’re touring multiple apartments. Taking photos or videos of each space is essential for reviewing the pros and cons later. With photos, you can re-examine details such as the condition of the walls, kitchen appliances, bathroom tiles, and more. Plus, having visual proof of the apartment’s state can be useful if there’s ever a dispute over pre-existing damage.

Pro tip: Take wide-angle shots to capture the entire room, but also zoom in on key areas like electrical outlets, water fixtures, or potential damage points.

• Checklist:
  • Phone or camera with ample storage
  • Spare battery or portable charger

4. A List of Questions: Don’t Leave Anything Unanswered

It’s easy to overlook important details when you're in the heat of the moment. Prepare a list of questions before you arrive, and don’t hesitate to ask them during the tour. Questions should cover topics like lease terms, utilities, pet policies, maintenance protocols, and parking availability. If the building offers amenities like a gym or rooftop, ask how and when these can be accessed.

Some useful questions include:

• Are utilities included in the rent?

• What is the parking situation?

• How is maintenance handled?

• Are pets allowed? If so, what’s the pet policy?

• Is there a security deposit, and how is it handled?

• Checklist:

  • Pre-written list of questions (saved on your phone or notepad)

5. Notebook and Pen (or Digital Alternative)

Even if you're taking photos, it's wise to write down notes about your impressions during the tour. While a phone's notes app works, a physical notebook can be more reliable if your battery dies. Jot down details like the neighborhood vibe, the cleanliness of the building, or any standout features of the unit. These notes can help you make an informed decision later, especially if you're torn between several options.

• Checklist:
  • Notebook and pen, or digital note-taking app

6. Application Materials: Be Ready to Act Fast

In competitive rental markets, the first qualified applicant often gets the apartment. If you love the place, you need to act fast. Bring your completed rental application (or fill it out on the spot if possible). This includes details like your employment history, previous addresses, and references.

It's also a good idea to bring a checkbook or be prepared to pay a deposit online through services like Venmo or PayPal. Having the financial means to secure the apartment immediately could set you apart from other potential renters.

• Checklist:
  • Completed rental application
  • Checkbook or digital payment setup
  • References (if required)

7. Comfortable Shoes: Touring Takes Time

This may sound trivial, but wearing comfortable shoes can make the experience much more pleasant. Apartment tours often involve walking through multiple units, up and down stairs, and around large buildings. Uncomfortable shoes will only add unnecessary stress to your tour.

• Checklist:
  • Comfortable walking shoes

8. Roommate or Partner: Another Set of Eyes

If you're sharing the space with someone else, bring them along. Two sets of eyes are better than one when evaluating an apartment. They might notice things you overlooked, like noisy neighbors or an inconvenient layout. If they can't make it in person, consider Facetiming them during the tour so they can still weigh in.

• Checklist:
  • Your roommate or partner
  • Facetime or video call option if they're remote

9. A Positive Attitude: The Secret Weapon

Finally, don’t forget to bring a positive attitude. Apartment hunting can be stressful, but it’s important to stay calm and focused during each tour. Being friendly and polite to the landlord or property manager can make a huge difference in the process. You want them to remember you as someone who would be a great tenant.

• Checklist:
  • Smile
  • Patience
  • Politeness

Conclusion: Preparation Is Key

The next time you’re preparing for an apartment tour, remember that being well-prepared will set you apart from the competition. Having your documents, questions, and equipment ready will not only streamline the process but also help you make the best decision possible. Remember, the best apartment may not always be the flashiest one but the one that fits your needs perfectly. Preparation ensures that you'll leave the tour knowing exactly what you're getting into and feel confident about making a decision.

Now, with this checklist in hand, you’re ready to ace your next apartment tour. Good luck!