COVID-19 has changed the way every business operates. From commercial properties, housing, and from large corporations to small businesses, everyone has had to adapt to a new way of working. So, if you’re looking to rent an apartment, and you want to know if “apartment rental offices are still open during the COVID-19 pandemic”. The short answer is that it depends largely on the geographic area you are in, and what the local regulations are. Consider the following –
What are the rules with apartment rental offices?
The question of whether apartment rental offices are still open largely depends on the specific state, city or municipality you are based in because everyone may have different levels of restrictions and they are changing daily based on the situation in that area. In some instances, the decision to stay open may also depend on individual communities.
How to find out if rental offices are open?
The easiest and best way to find out if an apartment rental office is open is to fill out a lead contact form that is available online or you can also try calling. If they are open for tours, make sure you inquire as to what their current hours are as many offices are working on limited hours that may differ from their advertised hours given the turmoil and quickness that the COVID19 necessitated changes. Even if the apartment rental office is closed, you are likely to be able to speak with agents working remotely who can assist you on the phone and answer your questions.
What to do if the rental office is open but you don’t want to go in?
In some instances, the apartment rental office may continue to operate and remain open. If you choose not to go in, you can probably get many of your questions answered on the phone. In addition to your normal apartment rental questions, consider asking:
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- Does the apartment complex support virtual leasing? This means you can possibly lease the apartment even if you don’t physically tour it.
- Does the apartment offer 3D-tours so you can get a realistic idea of what the apartment looks like without having to go in?
- Are there HD photos that show you every aspect of the apartment?
- Do you offer live video conferences or Facetime tours?
It’s important that you find out all this information ahead of time so you can make decisions about a property you are interested in even if you don’t want to visit the office in person.
What about apartment rental offices with limited hours or personnel?
Some apartment rental offices are open but work on limited hours. This may include :
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- Rental offices may be closed to the outside public for face-to-face contact for a certain period of time. You may need to check the office’s website to see if they have updated hours in the day or are shut for a specific period, or offer appointment only tours.
- Some offices may only have essential staff while others can be reached via text, email, or phone. Find out if there are any methods to reach out to the right contact for a property you are specifically interested in if they are not available in the office, or if an appointment can be set.
Even if the rental office is open and certain tours are allowed, the complex amenities like swimming pools, hot tubs, fitness center, playground, decks, basketball courts, and other areas may not be open for touring at this time.
What to do if you cannot get through to the apartment rental office?
While many apartment rental offices are not open during this COIVD-19 time, employees are usually available to take calls. But if for some reason, you cannot get through and are interested in a particular apartment, here are some important details :
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- Leave your name and contact info.
- Give information about a specific address you are referring to make your message as clear as possible.
- Try reaching out via multiple touch points including phone and contact lead form to help ensure the message is received
At the moment, rental offices may or may not be open, so use this guide to help you through different situations when looking for an apartment to rent during Covid-19. Remember, this is a new situation for everyone, and one that is rapidly evolving.
