How Visiting Open Houses Can Make You A Smarter Renter

Every weekend, you would probably drive by dozens of open house signs from realtors and rental agents urging you to drop by for a home tour and some treats. People often disregard this invitation especially if they aren't currently in the market for a new rental home. However, attending open houses can be a great way to learn more about your city's rental market and make your next go-round of renting a bit easier. It has become even easier with the rise of virtual showings via mobile devices.

Why Attend If I'm Not Ready to Rent?

Become More Familiar With Rental Market in Your City

• By visiting open houses both in and outside your areas, you become far more familiar with different areas of your city and the community amenities available to you in each area. Even if you don't plan on renting right away, a leasing agent might provide you with information about the community which you've never heard of before.  This newfound knowledge of available businesses and amenities in your city might influence future rental decisions the next time you think of relocating. 

Pinpoint Price and Learn About Incentives 

• By attending open houses regularly, you will become familiar with the costs associated with renting in certain areas as well as what you can expect to receive for those prices. Just because you might not be looking to rent today, doesn't mean you can't stay up to date on your rental market. This way, the next time you are looking to move, you will have firsthand knowledge not only of prices, but of what location, amenities, and finishes to expect from future, prospective rental apartments. Plus, you will be in the know regarding any back-pocket rental incentives that are only communicated in-person to open house visitors. By visiting these open houses you have the potential to receive incentives that you would have never come across by just browsing online. 

Build Relationships With Your Local Agents

• Attending open houses regularly can help you build relationships with rental agents who would be more than happy to help you the next time you have to look for your next home. While you might not be looking to rent today, these are the people who work diligently to ensure that you secure the apartment of your dreams. After all, regularly interacting with leasing agents is sure to help you understand the tricks of the trade and up your negotiation skills when it's time for you to find your next apartment.

Learn of Opportunities Within Your Existing Community

• If you currently rent, you might want to attend open houses by your own property management company. It might give you the opportunity to transfer suites within your own building or company at an even better price. Not only this, but you might be eligible to receive credits for resident referrals. In this case, referring a friend or family member could make you hundreds of dollars. 

Stay Up to Date on The Latest Vacancies and Promotions 

• Additionally, by attending open houses in your area, and providing your contact information to the leasing agents on-site, you can stay up to date on the latest rental promotions. This way you can be instantly notified of the newest incentives. 

The Rise of Virtual Showings

With the effects of the pandemic, you can now often book your own virtual open house through video chat. This way you can enjoy all of the benefits of attending an open house without even ever having to leave your current home. Simply connecting with a rental agent over FaceTime or other video chat service a receive a personalized tour while staying cozy at home.

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