Apartment viewing: Guide for your successful viewing appointment

Preparing for your apartment viewing

The application: Applying for apartment before viewing

The first step to a successful apartment search begins before the actual viewing appointment. Your application should be quick, complete, and professional. Landlords and landladies often receive dozens of inquiries – only those who stand out positively from the crowd receive an invitation.

Respond immediately to apartment listings, ideally within a few hours. Write a polite, error-free email or message in which you briefly introduce yourself: profession, current residence, desired move-in date, and reason for moving. Avoid standard phrases and show genuine interest in the specific apartment. Mention in your first contact that you have prepared all required documents and are available at short notice.

Documents for apartment viewing: What to bring to an apartment viewing

A complete application folder significantly increases your chances. The most important documents include:

Mandatory documents:

• ID card or passport (copy)

• Proof of income from the last three months (pay slips)

• Credit report (not older than three months)

• Certificate of no rent arrears from current landlord

• Employer confirmation or employment contract

Optional, but advantageous:

• Self-disclosure form (completed and signed)

• Parental guarantee (for students or trainees)

• References from previous landlords and landladies

• Brief cover letter with personal introduction

Prepare both digital and printed versions. A professionally compiled application folder in a clear sleeve makes a much better impression than loose copies.

Apartment viewing checklist: What to look for

What to look for in apartment viewing? This question concerns many prospective tenants. A structured apartment viewing checklist helps you not overlook anything important and compare different apartments objectively.

External factors and location

Begin your assessment before entering the building:

• Building condition: Is the stairwell well-maintained? Does the elevator work?

• Neighborhood: Does the area feel safe and pleasant?

• Transport connections: How accessible is public transportation?

• Infrastructure: Are there supermarkets, doctors, schools nearby?

• Parking options: Is there a parking space or street parking available?

• Noise pollution: Watch out for traffic, aircraft, or commercial noise

Interior furnishings and condition

What should you pay attention to inside the apartment? Check the following points carefully:

Floor plan and layout:

• Does the layout meet your needs?

• Are the rooms sufficiently large?

• Is there enough storage space (utility room, cellar)?

Building substance and condition:

• Condition of floors (scratches, unevenness, material)

• Wall condition (cracks, stains, moisture)

• Windows and doors (sealing, locking mechanisms, soundproofing)

• Mold: Check especially corners, window reveals, and bathroom

• Moisture: Dark stains, musty smell, or peeling paint are warning signs

Kitchen and sanitary:

• Is a fitted kitchen available or planned?

• Condition of fittings, tiles, and sanitary facilities

• Test water pressure

• Do shower and toilet work properly?

Heating and energy:

• Type of heating (central heating, gas boiler, district heating)

• Condition of radiators

• Review energy certificate (note energy efficiency class)

• Ask about estimated heating costs

Technical aspects

Technical infrastructure is often overlooked but essential:

• Power outlets: Sufficient sockets in each room?

• Water connections: Available for washing machine, dishwasher?

• Internet: Which providers are available? Fiber optic or DSL?

• Phone/TV: Cable connection or satellite dish possible?

• Cellar compartment: Check size and condition

• Bicycle storage: Is there a secure parking space?

Photograph (with permission) various areas of the apartment to review details later and compare apartments.

Questions to ask when viewing an apartment

What to ask when viewing an apartment? This question is central to making an informed decision. Prepare your questions in advance:

Financial aspects:

• What are the exact utility costs? What's included?

• How much is the deposit? (maximum three months' rent)

• Have utility costs increased in recent years?

• Is there a graduated rent or index-linked rent?

• What is the notice period?

Apartment and furnishings:

• What renovation work was recently completed?

• Must cosmetic repairs be undertaken by the tenant?

• Is the kitchen included in the rent or must it be taken over?

• Are structural changes (shelves, lamps) permitted?

House community and rules:

• What are the house rules? (Quiet hours, grilling, musical instruments)

• Are pets allowed?

• How is stairwell cleaning organized?

• What are the neighbors like? (diplomatically phrased)

Practical details:

• Why is the apartment vacant? How long has it been empty?

• When is the earliest possible move-in date?

• Are renovations planned for the building? (Facade, roof, heating)

• Are there known problems (moisture, mold, noise)?

Note the answers directly – this way you can better compare different apartments later.

Apartment viewing tips: How to make a good impression

4.1 Behavioral tips during the viewing

How do you make a good impression at an apartment viewing? The following apartment viewing tips will help you:

Punctuality is essential: Arrive 5 minutes before the agreed time. If delayed, call in advance and inform the landlord or landlady.

Professional demeanor:

• Greet all present politely with a handshake

• Introduce yourself briefly (name, profession, reason for apartment search)

• Show genuine interest in the apartment

• Ask thoughtful questions

• Listen attentively

Communication:

• Be honest, but not too private

• Avoid negative comments about the apartment or furnishings

• Don't speak disparagingly about former landlords or landladies

• Remain polite, even if the apartment doesn't suit you

Companions: Bring a maximum of one companion (partner or parent for young tenants). Large groups appear unprofessional.

4.2 The 7 No-Gos at an apartment viewing

Avoid these mistakes at all costs:

1. Unpunctuality without notice: Being late or not showing up disqualifies you immediately.

2. Incomplete or missing documents: Without an application folder, your chances are significantly lower.

3. Inappropriate behavior: Unsuitable clothing, unkempt appearance, or pushy behavior are off-putting.

4. Too many companions: Bringing the entire family or group of friends appears disrespectful.

5. Critical or negative comments: Even if defects are visible, phrase diplomatically: "Could the kitchen be renovated?" instead of "The kitchen is terrible!"

6. Dishonesty: Lies about income, employment, or pets will be revealed at contract signing at the latest.

Excessive demands: Don't immediately demand renovations or rent reductions. You can negotiate after receiving an offer.

Follow-up and next steps

Your work isn't done after the viewing:

Timely response: Send a friendly email within 24 hours reaffirming your interest and thanking them for their time. This shows commitment and keeps you in mind.

Be patient: The decision process can take several days to weeks. Landlords and landladies often need to compare multiple applicants and conduct legal reviews.

Follow-up allowed: After a week, you can politely inquire about the status. Don't overdo it though – daily calls appear pushy.

Alternative apartments: Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Apply for multiple apartments in parallel to increase your chances and strengthen your negotiating position.

If you receive an offer, carefully review the rental agreement before signing. Seek advice from a tenant association or lawyer if anything is unclear.