How Long Do Apartment Tours Take?

Most apartment tours can last around 30 minutes to an hour, giving you just enough time to explore the unit, check out any offered amenities, and ask questions. Your tour may be shorter or longer, depending on the size of the property, the number of floorplans you tour, and how thorough you want to be.

We’ll share a few factors that may influence your apartment tour duration, whether virtual apartment tours are faster, and smart ways to make the most of your visit so you can find your next home without feeling rushed.

What can make an apartment tour take longer? 

Apartment tours can be brief and straightforward or comprehensive and time-consuming, depending on your approach. Here are a few things that can tack on minutes to your visit:

1. Size and layout of the property

Larger communities with multiple buildings or several different floorplans will naturally take longer to fully explore. On the other hand, it can often benefit you to do so. Touring three different layouts, for example, gives you a better idea of what works for your lifestyle, whether you’re prioritizing a bigger kitchen, extra closet space, or a home office nook. The downside (or upside for some) is it also means more time on-site. 

2. Amenities and shared spaces

If the property offers extras like a pool, gym, coworking lounge, pet park, or rooftop deck, you should expect your leasing agent to walk you through these community spaces. These amenities are often nice perks that can be essential for about 33% of renters. You may even spend a little more time assessing the types of equipment the gym offers, how fast the WiFi is in the business center, or whether a grill is available for use on the deck.

3. Your questions and concerns

The more prepared you are with specific questions about everything from parking to pet policies, the more you’ll get out of the tour. For example, if you have a furry roommate in mind, this is the moment to ask about pet deposits and breed restrictions. These conversations often reveal helpful details that you might not find in the listing. Some good questions to ask on your apartment tour might be:

• What are your policies on overnight guests?
• What are the access hours for shared spaces, like the gym?
• Are there additional fees for parking or reserving the lounge?

4. Busy schedules and overlapping tours

Touring during peak times, such as weekends or immediately after work hours, may involve extra waiting while other groups finish, so keep this in mind when booking.

Are virtual tours better or faster than in-person tours?

Virtual apartment tours are a significant benefit for those with a busy lifestyle, as they can expedite the search process by eliminating travel time and scheduling delays. Many are pre-recorded, so you can view them anytime, anywhere, and they often focus on the highlights without the long walks between buildings.

That said, an in-person tour still offers a sensory advantage. You can feel the natural light in each room, hear the neighborhood noise (or quiet), and notice small but important details, like storage depth or water pressure, that are hard to judge on-screen. Another benefit is the ability to directly ask questions of the guide, which means you are less likely to forget to ask about important details.

One smart strategy is to use virtual tours to narrow down your list, then visit your top contenders in person to see if they feel right for you.

How can I make the most of my apartment tour? 

Whether you choose an in-person or virtual apartment tour, a little preparation goes a long way in helping you leave with a clear decision.

1. Prepare a question list that covers all the information you want

In your list, you’ll want to cover the essentials, such as lease terms, maintenance response times, utilities, and move-in costs. You can also tack on questions about pet policies, quiet hours, and anything that will help you decide whether the apartment is right for you.

2. Dress comfortably and practically

You won’t get the most out of your apartment tour if you are uncomfortable. Wear shoes you can walk in for extended periods, especially if the property has multiple buildings or outdoor amenities to explore. In addition to footwear, choose clothing that allows you to move freely; think breathable fabrics and layers that can be added or removed depending on the temperature. Comfort and practicality will enable you to navigate stairs, open doors, and access closets and storage without distraction.

3. Keep track of details

Bring a notepad or use your phone to jot down what you think about the space or responses to the questions that you have asked. If allowed, take photos or short videos so you can compare spaces later without relying on memory.

4. Pay attention to the details that matter most to you

Focus on the features that fit your lifestyle. If you love to cook, take the time to really explore the kitchen and inspect details like counter space and appliance condition. If you work remotely, look for spots with strong natural light, lots of quiet, and room for a desk. Soundproofing, closet size, and even airflow are also worth noting. Remember, small things can make a big difference on a day-to-day basis.

5. Confirm all key information before you leave the tour

Before ending your tour, verify the unit’s availability, application process, deposit requirements, and any current specials.  Apartments often fill up quickly, with many being rented within just a few days of being listed, so it’s essential to have all the details before you walk away. 

Once you’ve decided the space is right for you, submitting your application promptly can increase your chances of securing the unit and avoiding disappointment. Taking these steps helps guarantee that you leave the tour informed and prepared, rather than wondering what you might have missed.

Tour apartments in-person or virtually through Zillow

While most virtual apartment tours run 30–60 minutes, every moment can bring you closer to finding the right fit for your lifestyle. With Zillow’s apartment tours, you can explore spaces in person to get a true feel for the layout, lighting, and community. You can also take a virtual tour to save time and compare options from anywhere. Whichever route you choose, you’ll have the flexibility to tour on your schedule and the insight to make a confident choice about your next home.