A UT Longhorn, post-grad playbook for touring apartments like a pro — not like someone about to overpay.

Touring apartments for the first time after UT Austin feels exciting… until you realize how easy it is to get distracted by granite countertops and forget to ask the questions that actually matter.

Here’s the truth: most Longhorns don’t end up in bad apartments because they chose the wrong city — they end up there because they did a bad apartment tour.

This guide walks you through exactly how to do the perfect apartment tour: what to ask, what to look for, and how to spot red flags before you sign anything.

🤘 First Rule: Don’t Tour Like a Tourist

Apartment tours are sales experiences. Leasing agents are great at showing you the best version of the building.

Your job is to look past the staging and evaluate how the apartment will feel on a normal Tuesday night.

🏠 What to Look For Inside the Apartment

Noise & Walls

• Stand still and listen — can you hear neighbors?
• Ask if walls are concrete or drywall
• Check windows for street noise

Natural Light

• Which direction do the windows face?
• Is the unit dark during the day?
• Ask to tour at the same time of day you’d usually be home

Storage & Layout

• Closet space (seriously, check it)
• Where will furniture actually fit?
• Is there space for work-from-home?

🔐 Safety Questions You Should Always Ask

• Is the building controlled-access?
• Are parking garages gated?
• Where are cameras located?
• Is on-site security available?

If they dodge these questions, that’s a red flag.

🚗 Parking, Guests, and Real-Life Logistics

• Is parking included or extra?
• How many guest passes do you get?
• What happens if guests stay overnight?
• How far is parking from your unit?

🧠 Ask About the Stuff They Don’t Advertise

Maintenance

• Average response time?
• Emergency maintenance availability?
• In-house or third-party?

Utilities

• What utilities are billed separately?
• Is billing sub-metered or flat rate?
• Average monthly cost?

📉 Lease Terms & Rent Reality

• What move-in specials are available?
• What does rent usually renew to?
• What fees are non-refundable?

Never assume the advertised rent is the final number.

🚩 Common Red Flags Longhorns Miss

• They won’t show the exact unit
• They rush you to apply same day
• Online reviews mention maintenance issues
• Common areas look better than actual units

🎯 The Perfect Tour Mindset

You’re not just choosing an apartment — you’re choosing your routine, your commute, your social life, and your peace of mind.

Take your time. Ask real questions. And don’t be afraid to walk away.