After checking out your photos and  videos and reading your community reviews, a prospective renter is interested in learning more. So, he schedules an in-person tour of your apartment. This tour will play a big role in whether or not this renter chooses your apartment community. No pressure, right? Take a deep breath…and master your next apartment tour with these six tips.   

1. Greet them Warmly
First impressions are lasting impressions. Greet prospective renters with a smile and a handshake to start things off on the right foot.

2. Let in the Light
I don’t know many people who would want to live in an apartment that is dark and gloomy. Open the shades and turn on the lights so the perspective renter can see the unit in the best light possible – literally.

3. Tailor Your Tour
Don’t give the exact same tour to every prospective renter. Instead, ask the renter what he’s looking for in an apartment and what attracted him to your community. Then, tailor your tour to the prospective resident. For example, if Randy the Renter is a cooking enthusiast, highlight the features of the unit’s newly remodeled kitchen so he can imagine himself living (and cooking) in this apartment.

4. Keep your Distance
After you’ve given the prospective renter a tour, give them an opportunity to wander around the unit. Stay close enough that you’re available to answer questions, but not so close that you’re making him or her feel uncomfortable or pressured.

5. Ask for Feedback
What did the prospective renter like about your community? What didn't they like? You can use this feedback in your follow up communication, which brings me to the next point…

6. Follow Up
According to research funded by Apartments.com, renters typically take 30 to 90 days to find their next place to call home. So be sure to follow up promptly with renters who have taken a tour of your community.

What other tips do you have for giving better apartment tours?