How do you handle showing requests while current guests are still in the unit?

[Brian Malavsky]

I've been getting more and more requests from prospective midterm guests asking to tour the property before booking. Many mention having been misled in the past by other landlords, usually about location or neighborhood quality, so I understand the hesitation.

That said, I’ve always prioritized guest privacy and have never allowed in-person showings while someone is staying. Instead, I send a detailed video walk-through I made, and that’s usually enough to reassure them.

This approach feels right to me, but I’m curious how others handle this. Have you ever allowed an in-person walk-through while a guest is occupying the unit? If so, how did your guest respond? Any pushback or awkward situations?

Appreciate any insight!

[Lauren Kormylo]

Quote from @Brian Malavsky:

Thanks for sharing your process, really helpful to hear how you’ve structured it. I hadn’t thought about syncing walk throughs with scheduled cleanings or tying it to a formal notice period, but that makes a lot of sense.

I’ve been hesitant to allow any in person visits while someone’s staying, even with notice, just out of respect for guest comfort, but I can see how having a consistent policy in the lease could help set expectations upfront.

Also, love the idea of using Matterport and YouTube together. I’ve just been using a basic walkthrough video from my phone, but now I’m tempted to level it up!

I would only allow walk-throughs with me, and I tell the people beforehand that they must all stay together as a group, one person can't go off to look at the bathroom while the others are with me in the kitchen.  People could steal something belonging to your current renter.  I had that happen to me personally when I was a renter and the house was being sold and shown by a realtor.