Touring is the moment of truth for renters, the time when they decide if a place is the one. But what if the touring process itself could be smoother, faster, and more flexible?

The renter perspective

We recently surveyed renters to get a better understanding of their touring preferences. Here's what we found:

• The in-person tour endures: While the digital age has brought us virtual tours and 3D models, the majority of renters still prefer an in-person tour. They want to feel the space, see the light, and get a sense of the neighborhood.
• The Gen Z factor: However, 60% of younger renters (18-24) are interested in self-guided tours. They're resourceful and comfortable with independent exploration.
• The virtual visionary: A smaller but significant 19% of renters don't feel the need for an in-person tour. High-quality photos and videos can be enough, especially for out-of-state movers.

The pain points

While in-person tours are still popular, the process can be frustrating. Here are some common pain points:

• The ghosting game: Renters often comment that they submit inquiries and then don't hear back from properties, which can cause frustration when they are ready to learn more.
• The scheduling struggle: Coordinating schedules can be a nightmare. Limited touring hours can make it difficult to find a time that works for everyone.

The power of promptness

One of the most significant factors influencing a renter's ability to tour quickly is, unsurprisingly, prompt responsiveness.

• The speed demon: A surprising 59% of renters tour within 1 to 3 days of submitting a lead. When property managers and landlords are quick to respond, renters can move faster.
• The quick close: Once a renter tours a place, they're ready to move. 81% expect their lease to start within a month or less.

It's a simple truth, really: time is of the essence. Renters are busy people with packed schedules. When they see a place they like, they want to act fast. But if they're left hanging, they'll move on to the next property.

The importance of flexibility

Beyond promptness, other key ingredients to a successful tour include:

• Flexible scheduling: A flexible schedule is a game-changer. When renters can easily book a tour that fits their schedule, they're more likely to follow through. Offering a variety of tour times, including evenings and weekends, can significantly expand your reach and attract more renters.
• Detailed listings: Clear and accurate property listings help renters make informed decisions, reducing the need for unnecessary in-person tours.
• Self-guided tours: Offering self-guided tours can be a great way to accommodate busy renters and reduce the burden on property managers.
• Automated scheduling tools: Use technology to streamline the scheduling process. Automated scheduling tools allow renters to book tours at their convenience, reducing back-and-forth communication.

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The solution: A tech-enabled approach

To address these pain points, property managers and leasing agents can embrace technology. By using a tour scheduling tool, you can:

• Automate the process: Automatically schedule tours, send reminders, and simplify rescheduling and cancelations.
• Improve communication: Provide real-time updates and notifications.
• Enhance the renter experience: Offer a seamless and convenient experience.

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The future of touring

As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative approaches to touring. Virtual reality, augmented reality, and AI-powered chatbots are just a few of the tools that could revolutionize the way we experience potential homes.

But no matter how advanced the technology becomes, one thing will always remain constant: the human element. A friendly, knowledgeable leasing agent can make all the difference in a renter's decision-making process.

So, the next time you're crafting your property's online listing or interacting with a potential renter, remember: the tour is more than just a formality. It's an opportunity to make a lasting impression and secure a long-term tenant.

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RentMarketplace. simplifies the leasing process by seamlessly integrating with popular property management platforms like Yardi, Entrata, Knock, and AnyoneHome. For those without a tour scheduler, our free Tour Calendar allows renters to easily schedule tours from your listing based on your team's availability.

Want to learn more about how Rent. can help you streamline your leasing process? Let's chat.

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