What to Bring to an Apartment Viewing

What to Bring to an Apartment Viewing

By Jennifer Lai, About.com
Arrive at an apartment viewing prepared, so you can focus on fully evaluating the apartment. With the necessary tools, you can better assess whether the apartment's right for you. And if you fall in love with the place, you'll be ready to start the application process.
A special note for those renting in competition markets: it’s particularly important that you come prepared, so that your dream apartment isn't snatched up by someone else.
BasicsDigital cameraA camera is useful for reminding you what the apartment and its surrounding area look like. After seeing several apartments, they’ll start blurring together. Before you know it, you can’t remember which one had the spacious closet and which had the decorative kitchen tiles.
NotepadBring a notebook, too, to jot down notes of each apartment—things you liked and didn’t like. For example, was there a lot of ruckus outside? Or a slow-moving elevator? Write down any notable observations in your notebook.
Checkbook and ATM CardIf you find your dream apartment, you’ll want to begin the apartment application process, which often requires a deposit to take the apartment off the market. Bring a checkbook, for sure, but also an ATM card for brokers or landlords that require cash only. (Note: please don’t hand over money unless you receive a receipt and a signed document, saying you’ll receive the deposit back if you're rejected for the apartment).
Social Security NumberMake sure you know your social security number, which will be needed to perform a credit check. If you plan on using a guarantor, you’ll need their SSN as well. Guarantors are typically used when you don’t meet the minimum financial requirements for the apartment.
Tape MeasurerMeasure the rooms, so you can work out later exactly how much furniture can fit. If the previous tenants are still living there, then you’ll have some idea of dimensions. But if it’s a big empty room, well, it can look deceptively bigger or smaller than it truly is.
For Competitive MarketsIn certain competitive markets, you must go through stringent requirements before signing the lease. For example, in New York City, many liken renting to buying a house. In these cities, you must come to an apartment viewing ready to rent on the spot, especially during the most competitive season—summer. So gather all your materials even before you start looking at listings.
Bank statementsYes, in some places, landlords want to see your bank statements. Make photocopies of at least two bank statements, making sure to black out your bank account number.
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