Viewing an Apartment
Use these phrases when viewing an apartment to ask the landlord or agent essential questions about the property, costs, and terms.
Key Phrases
When's this place gonna be available?
casualVery informal; uses the reduced form 'gonna'.
When is the apartment available to move into?
neutralHow much are you asking for rent, and what's the deposit?
casualCould you clarify the monthly rent and the security deposit requirements?
politeMore formal; good for professional property managers.
Are any utilities included in the rent, like water or gas?
neutralUS English; 'utilities' usually covers electricity, gas, and water.
Could you tell me if any bills, such as council tax, are included in the rent?
politeUK English; uses 'bills' and references 'council tax'.
Does the apartment come with all these appliances, or do I need my own?
casualUS English; 'apartment' and 'appliances' are the standard terms here.
Could you confirm if the flat is being let fully furnished, or just with white goods?
politeUK English; uses 'flat' and 'white goods' (like a fridge or washing machine).
Do the walls seem pretty thin here?
casualA direct, informal way to ask if you will easily hear the neighbors.
I really like the layout, but does the bedroom get much noise from the street?
neutralAre you looking for a strict one-year lease, or is there some flexibility?
neutralThe living room gets a ton of natural light, which is awesome.
casualI'm definitely interested. What's the next step?
casualIf I decided to move forward, what would the application process involve?
politeUses the second conditional to politely express hypothetical interest.