Planning a move this fall? Whether you’re searching for your first apartment, upgrading to a larger space, or simply ready for a change of scenery, touring a few apartments is an important step before signing a lease.
Photos and floor plans can give you a good idea of what a home looks like, but seeing it in person can tell you much more. From the layout and natural light to the building amenities and little details that make everyday life easier, there are a few things worth paying attention to during every apartment tour.
Here’s what to look for when you’re touring your next apartment.
1. Pay Attention to the Layout
Square footage is important, but how that space is used can be just as important.
As you walk through the apartment, think about how your furniture would fit into the space. Is there enough room for your dining table? Where would your couch go? Does the bedroom have enough space for your bed and other furniture?
Pay attention to how the kitchen, living and dining areas connect, too. An open-concept layout can make a space feel larger and give you more flexibility in how you use it.
At The Parks, suites are designed with open-concept living spaces and a range of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom floor plans, making it easier to find a layout that fits your lifestyle.
2. Check the Natural Light and Views
Natural light can make a huge difference in how an apartment feels throughout the day.
During your tour, take note of which direction the windows face, how much natural light comes into the main living spaces and what the view looks like from the apartment.
If having a bright living space is important to you, floor-to-ceiling windows can be a major feature to look for. The Parks’ residences feature windows are designed to bring plenty of natural light into the suites.
3. Look Beyond the Finishes
It’s easy to focus on how an apartment looks when you’re touring it. And while finishes certainly matter, don’t forget to think about how the space will function day to day.
Check out the kitchen storage, countertop space, closets and bathroom storage. Open a few cabinets and drawers. Look at where your everyday items would actually go.
At The Parks, kitchens feature quartz countertops, full-height cabinetry, soft-close doors, undermount sinks and islands with additional storage and an eating bar. Suites also include in-suite laundry and generous balconies.
These are the kinds of details that can make a difference once you’ve moved in and started settling into your new routine.
4. Ask About What’s Included
Before you fall in love with an apartment, make sure you understand exactly what’s available to you and also what’s included with your rent.
Ask about things like:
- Parking
- Storage
- Utilities
- Internet
- Pet policies and fees
- Laundry
- Maintenance and repairs
- Access to building amenities
It’s also worth asking about any current rental incentives and how they affect your lease. Rental offers can change, so make sure you understand the terms before making a decision.
5. Tour the Amenities, Too
Your apartment is only one part of where you’ll live.
If the building offers amenities, ask to see them during your tour. Think about which spaces you’d realistically use rather than simply choosing a building because it has a long list of amenities.
For example, would you use a fitness centre? Do you work from home and need a co-working space? Would a rooftop lounge be somewhere you’d actually spend time with friends?
The Parks offers a range of spaces designed for everyday living, including a wellness centre, co-working areas, social lounges, a rooftop lounge, a 36th-floor chef’s kitchen, underground parking and pet-friendly amenities.
6. Consider the Location Around the Building
Before deciding on an apartment, take a few minutes to look beyond the front entrance.
What’s within walking distance? How close are you to work, school, restaurants, grocery stores, parks and public transportation? Is there somewhere nearby where you can go for a walk or get some fresh air?
For downtown Edmonton renters, location can be a major advantage. The Parks is located along Jasper Avenue and Capital Boulevard, alongside O-day’min Park and close to Edmonton’s Education District.
The surrounding neighbourhood is just as much a part of your home as the apartment itself.
7. Think About Your Routine
One of the best questions to ask yourself during an apartment tour is: Can I picture my everyday life here?
Imagine a normal weekday. Where will you have your morning coffee? Where will you work? Where will you keep your things? How will you get to work or school? Where will you relax at the end of the day?
Then think about your weekends. Is there enough space to have friends over? Do you have access to outdoor space? Are there amenities or nearby places you’ll actually enjoy using?
The right apartment isn’t necessarily the one with the most features. It’s the one that fits the way you actually live.
8. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
An apartment tour is your opportunity to get answers before you commit.
Ask the leasing team anything you’re unsure about, from lease terms and move-in dates to parking, pets, maintenance and building policies. If there’s something particularly important to you, bring it up during the tour rather than assuming you’ll figure it out later.
And if you’re touring multiple apartments, take notes. After seeing several spaces, it can be surprisingly easy to forget which building had which features.
Ready for a New Season?
A new season can be a good time for a fresh start – and with fall move-ins approaching, now is a great time to start exploring your options.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy studio, a one-bedroom downtown apartment or more room for roommates or a growing household, The Parks offers a variety of thoughtfully designed floor plans in the heart of downtown Edmonton.
Take a tour, explore the amenities and see what everyday life at The Parks could look like for you.
Ready to find your next home? Book a tour at The Parks and start planning your next move.
