Can you safely lease a new apartment without seeing it?
Yes, if you see the actual unit on live video, get every cost in writing, and pay only through the property’s official channel. Remote leasing is routine for renters relocating to Austin, and new buildings are set up for it with online applications and e-signing. The risks are the same ones that trip up local renters, with less chance to catch them in person. Here’s the process we use for renters moving to Austin.
Step 1: A live video walk of the actual unit
A recorded tour of the model isn’t enough. On a live walk of your actual unit, ask to see:
| Check | Why |
|---|---|
| The unit number on the door | Confirms it’s your unit |
| Every window’s view | Renderings show ideal views |
| Closets, pantry, appliances | Dimensions and condition |
| Water pressure and hot water | Hard to judge from photos |
| Hallway, elevator, trash room | Noise and convenience |
| Parking and building entrance | Daily routine |
Our guide on renderings vs. the real unit explains what listings tend to leave out.
Step 2: The written fee sheet before you apply
Ask for the written fee sheet first. Required fees ran $78-$228 a month at 12 board buildings (median $120.50, Oct 25, 2026), and property-billed water adds more. With the fee sheet, you can see true monthly before paying an application fee. If your commute uses 183A, SH-130, or SH-45, add toll road costs to that number too.
Step 3: Pre-check approval
Most buildings want about 3x the rent in gross income, and some test on base rent. If you’re starting a new job, ask whether an offer letter is accepted before your first pay stub.
Step 4: E-sign, and read the addenda first
You’ll e-sign the lease and addenda through the property’s portal. Before you do, read the concession addendum (and any payback clause), the fee and utility addenda, and the Texas flood disclosure under §92.0135. We read the concession and fee addenda with you.
Get the special in writing
The special, its end date, and the minimum lease term should be in the concession addendum before you sign.
Step 5: Scam checks
- Verify the leasing office through the property’s own website, not the listing.
- Pay only through the property’s official portal.
- Never wire money or pay a person by app to “hold” a unit.
- Check any agent’s license on the TREC lookup.
Our rental scams guide lists the warning signs.
Step 6: Move-in setup from afar
Before you arrive, set up electric for that address (Austin Energy, PEC, Bluebonnet, Georgetown, or an Oncor plan) and request a 12-month letter of credit from your current utility to waive the deposit where it applies. We’ll help you set it up before move-in, and we can confirm key pickup and package handling for your arrival day.
