Moving to a new city
What should I ask to see on a virtual apartment tour?
Updated By the Housing Rocket moderators
Short answer
Ask for a live video call, not a recorded video, and have them start outside: the street, the building number, the entrance and the unit number on the door. Inside, ask them to open closets and cabinets, run the taps and shower, show every window view and stay quiet for a moment so you can hear the noise level.
Write your list before the call so you do not forget anything while the camera moves. Here is what to ask for.
- Outside: the street in both directions, parking, the entrance and how it locks.
- The route from the front door to the unit, including stairs or the elevator.
- The unit number on the door, then the whole place in one continuous walk.
- Water pressure in the shower and sink, hot water, and the toilet flushing.
- Stove burners, the refrigerator, heating and air conditioning turning on.
- Under the kitchen and bathroom sinks, the corners of ceilings and around windows, for leaks or mold.
- The view from each window, and the window opened for a few seconds to hear traffic.
- Laundry, trash, mailboxes and package delivery.
- Phone signal inside, if the person can check with a phone on your carrier.
Ask them to measure the bedroom if you have furniture to fit. Take screenshots during the call, with permission, so you can compare places later.
A real landlord or agent will usually agree to all of this. Someone who refuses a live tour, only sends photos, or cannot get inside is a reason to stop.
Want the whole picture? Read How to Find Housing Before You Move to a New City.