Viewing a Rental Property Prior to Purchase

[Curt McClements]

Hi Everyone. I'm in the market to purchase my first rental property (a duplex). I'm pre-approved and excited to get started. I have been told by 2 separate realtors for 2 different properties that I probably won't be able to view the interior of the buildings until I have committed to purchase and the inspection is taking place. I'm all for preserving the privacy of the tenants, but this seems a little extreme. What is the standard practice when all units are occupied?

[Sean Ploskina]

I generally accept not seeing every unit until I make the offer and having the inspection done.  In my experience the outside always looks better than the inside of the building.  So my walkaround gives me a good starting point for expectations.  If the outside has damage or unclean I promise the inside is worse.  If you are working with a realtor make sure that their is clause with your right to break the contract based on the inspection.