How to Take a Tour of Our Apartments in Joplin With Our Checklist

Parking

The first thing you see when you pull into our apartments in Joplin is the parking lot. Look over the cars and the empty spots. Does it seem like there is enough parking for everyone in the complex? Does the parking situation seem crowded? 

Covered parking can be a benefit of an apartment in Joplin, MO. We have 32 select covered spots at 20th Place Apartments. So, make sure to ask about covered parking when you take a tour. 

Glance at the pavement of the parking lot. Is it new? Do the lines appear freshly painted? Are there cracks showing? Does the parking lot have weeds or grass growing through any cracks? Neglect of the parking lot can be a sign that maintaining the parking areas isn’t at the top of management’s mind.

Are there plenty of lights in the parking lot? Chances are good you’re taking a tour of our apartments in Joplin during the day. We have plenty of bright lights around our complex, so you’ll have peace of mind when returning home when it’s dark.

Check for:

• Parking close to your possible apartment
• The appearance of the pavement
• Lights
• Enough spaces for everyone
• Covered parking
• Security cameras
• Condition of the pavement, markings, and drainage
• Adequate visitor parking available
• Handicap-accessible spaces and pathways
• Distance from parking to apartment entrances
• Ease of entering and exiting the parking lot

Outdoor Space

What kind of outdoor space do you see? Are there green spaces where residents can pull up some lawn chairs? What amenities do you see with the outdoor space?

At our apartments in Joplin, we have a large lawn space in between two large buildings. It’s behind the clubhouse and surrounding the pool. You’ll also see some green space in front of and behind some apartment buildings that are perfect for cornhole, playing catch, or pulling up a few chairs to enjoy the sunshine. 

Outdoor spaces should be welcoming to residents. From an outdoor pool and grills to lounge chairs and a dog-walking area, the outdoor area needs to look clean, tidy, and used frequently by residents. 

Check for:

• Green spaces
• Well-maintained pool with lounge chairs
• Safe and modern playground equipment
• Dog walking area
• Plenty of lights
• Upkeep of lawns, gardens, and walkways
• Well-maintained plants, trees, and landscaped areas
• Benches, picnic areas, or grills
• Privacy levels and noise from surrounding areas
• Seating: Look for comfortable seating areas
• Size and usability of outdoor areas
• Pathways are clear and free from hazards

Outside Appearance

How does the outdoor environment look? Does everything look clean, crisp, and organized? A fresh, new look for the outdoor spaces shows that management prioritizes residents and their satisfaction. Does the siding or brick appear fresh and clean? If something is painted, does it look solid, fresh, or chipped? What about the outside of the management office or clubhouse?

Check on:

• Appearance of the siding, brick, and roofs
• Signs of wear, such as cracks, peeling paint, or rust
• The exterior is clean and free of debris
• Gutters are intact and functional
• Damage or discoloration in siding or walls
• Exterior lights are functioning and strategically placed
• Clear and well-maintained building signage
• Entrances are accessible and well-marked
• Surrounding landscaping is well-maintained
• Signs of pest issues, like nests or infestations
• Water damage and rotted wood

Security/Lock/Front Door

Once you get to your apartment in Joplin, MO, the first thing you notice is the front door. You want it to be sturdy and secure for you and your family. The best door for the front entrance is a steel door that latches securely when it closes.

See what else to note:

• Any cracks, dents, or signs of wear on the door
• Sturdy with a solid core and working deadbolt
• Proper function of the locks, including the deadbolt
• Door frame for stability, with no signs of damage or gaps
• Intact weather stripping to prevent drafts
• Functioning peephole or other security viewing options
• Well-secured, rust-free hinges that allow smooth opening and closing
• Doorbell or intercom system for proper functionality
• Appearance for any fading, peeling paint, or damage
• Closed door to check how well it seals out noise

Appliances

The appliances of your apartment can make a huge difference in the quality of life. Modern appliances are the standard, from an efficient HVAC system to an induction stovetop. 

Look for these items as you comb through the appliances of an apartment in Joplin, MO:

• Functionality of each appliance (stove, oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, HVAC) to ensure they work properly
• Any visible damage, wear, or rust
• Interior and exterior of each appliance for cleanliness, dirt, and mold
• Age of the appliances to gauge their efficiency and reliability
• Energy-efficient labels to estimate utility costs
• Seals on refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers to ensure they close properly
• Refrigerator and oven that can maintain proper temperatures
• Stove has a working exhaust fan or hood
• HVAC system comes on when expected with a digital thermostat
• Any smells coming from the appliances, including the HVAC
• Sounds coming from the appliances when you run them

Flooring

Quality flooring is a must for an apartment in Joplin. Modern living spaces feature hard flooring that you can customize with rugs or carpeting to help with insulation, noise reduction, and softness. 

Check for these items when assessing the flooring of your apartment:

• Scratches, stains, cracks, or chips in the flooring, or any bare spots in carpets
• Clean and free of debris or buildup
• Type of flooring (hardwood, tile, carpet, vinyl) to assess durability and maintenance needs (vacuuming, sweeping, or rug usage)
• Feel for any uneven areas or squeaks
• Where the flooring meets walls or transitions to other rooms for gaps or lifting
• Signs of water damage, such as warping or discoloration
• Grout lines in tile floors and seams in laminate or vinyl for wear or gaps
• Fraying, matting, or stains on the carpet, especially in high-traffic areas
• Flooring is securely installed with no loose tiles or planks
• Underlayment, especially for noise reduction and insulation in multi-level units

Kitchen Cabinets

The kitchen is the heart of the home. In addition to the appliances, you’ll want to check the kitchen cabinets to see if they have the space you need for groceries, small appliances, and more. 

Inspect the kitchen cabinets for these things during an apartment tour:

• Scratches, dents, or signs of wear on the cabinet surfaces
• Hinges are secure and operate smoothly
• Doors that hang straight and close properly without gaps
• Cleanliness, stains, or signs of pests inside
• Sturdiness of shelves and ensure they are adjustable if needed
• Drawers to ensure they slide smoothly and function properly
• Hardware is secure and free of damage on handles and knobs
• Quality of the cabinet materials (wood, laminate, etc.)
• Smell inside the cabinets for any musty or unpleasant odors

Under the Sinks 

Underneath the kitchen and bathroom sinks should look and smell normal. Look for these things when inspecting them:

• Signs of water leaks or moisture around pipes
• Water stains, mold, or mildew on the cabinet floor and walls
• Rust, corrosion, or damage around the pipes
• Musty or unpleasant odors, which could indicate moisture problems
• Space available for storage and its usability
• Signs of pests like dead bugs or animal droppings
• Bottom of the cabinet is sturdy and not warped or damaged.
• Debris or buildup under the sink
• Enough space for a small trash bin if needed

Faucets

Kitchen and bathroom faucets should operate as expected. Check for these items when taking a tour of our apartments in Joplin, MO:

• Strong and consistent water flow by turning on the faucets
• Hot and cold water to ensure the temperature adjusts properly
• Faucet base and handles for any leaks or drips
• Handles or knobs turn smoothly without stiffness
• Aerator for clogging or uneven water flow
• Rust or corrosion on the faucet and handles
• No gaps where the faucet meets the sink or wall 
• Faucet’s finish for any scratches, tarnishing, or damage
• Water drains quickly without pooling
• Unusual noises, such as sputtering or banging, when the faucet is in use

Bathrooms

Bathrooms should be clean, free from mold and mildew, and have a modern appearance with a bathtub or shower. Check for these items when inspecting the bathrooms ahead of signing a lease:

• Shower, sink, and toilet for strong and consistent water flow
• Working exhaust fan or a window for ventilation
• Tiles for cracks and grout for cleanliness and integrity
• Toilet to ensure it works properly and refills quickly without any leaks
• Adequate storage in cabinets and closets
• Well-lit with functioning light fixtures
• Signs of mold, mildew, or stains
• The floor and ceiling look intact and without any water stains or damage

Bedrooms & Closets

You want a cozy night’s sleep for as long as you live here. Assess these items when looking over the bedrooms and closets:

• Windows and doors operate smoothly
• Room size meets your needs
• Layout and how it accommodates your furniture
• Overhead lights and any additional fixtures
• Adequate ventilation or an operational window
• Built-in shelves, rods, and storage options in the closet that are sturdy and installed properly
• Signs of damage or wear inside the closet
• Functionality of the hanging rods in the closet
• Functionality and number of electrical outlets 
• Check for sufficient outlets and their placement.
• Noise levels inside the bedroom from both outside and other parts of the apartment
• Windows have secure locks
• Condition of the paint and flooring
• Lighting
• Signs of dust, mold, or pests 

Layout, Room Sizes & Space Efficiency

You want enough space for you and your family to live comfortably. Check for these items when you assess the layout, room sizes, and space in your apartment in Joplin:

• Flow and accessibility between rooms
• How your furniture would fit in each room visually inside your head (we suggest taking a photo or two)
• Adequate closet and cabinet space
• Ease of movement through the apartment, noting any cramped or obstructed areas
• Amount and quality of natural light in each room
• Each room is functional and suited to its intended use
• Convenience of access between main living areas, bedrooms, and bathrooms
• How effectively the space is used, including built-in features and layout efficiency
• How well each room is separated for privacy and how noise travels between rooms

Natural Light or Windows

Natural light from windows is important because it can help brighten a room during any time of year. Check these items when inspecting the natural light and windows in an apartment in Joplin, MO, ahead of moving in:

• Size and number of windows in each room for light and ventilation
• Direction windows face (e.g., north, south) to understand light exposure throughout the day and during winter and summer
• Signs of damage, such as cracks or drafts, on each window
• Quality of the view from the windows and whether it meets your preferences
• Type and condition of window coverings (e.g., blinds, curtains) and their effectiveness, if any
• Open and close smoothly for proper ventilation
• How sunlight affects the temperature and brightness in each room
• Presence and condition of window screens to keep out pests

Noise Levels From Outside

You want your residence to have a level of noise control so you and your kids can sleep at night. Examine these items when assessing the noise levels from the outside:

• Noise from traffic, pedestrians, or nearby construction
• Thickness and condition of windows for soundproofing effectiveness
• Apartment’s proximity to busy streets, public transportation, or noisy areas
• Noises from nearby outdoor amenities such as parks, pools, schools, or recreational areas
• Sounds from external AC units or other building equipment
• Noise levels during your visit
• Soundproofing features or barriers around windows and walls
• How noise levels might affect your comfort and daily activities inside the apartment
• Sounds coming from common areas like an in-complex pool, playground, or ball court

Community Amenities

What kind of lifestyle do you want to lead at your apartment in Joplin? Look over the community amenities to see if it meets or exceeds your expectations.

• Fitness center
• Lounge
• Pool
• Grills
• Playground
• Ball courts
• Dog walking area
• Outdoor chairs
• Community rooms
• Business center
• Manager’s office
• Laundry area

Friendly Neighborhood

You want to live in a friendly neighborhood that makes you feel safe and comfortable. Assess these items when examining the neighborhood surrounding your apartment in Joplin:

• Welcoming and well-maintained feel
• Proximity and quality of local amenities such as parks, cafes, schools, healthcare, and retail shops
• Visible security measures
• Speaking with locals, if possible
• Residents seem friendly and engaged with each other
• Cleanliness of streets, sidewalks, and public spaces
• Traffic patterns and consider if they affect the neighborhood’s livability
• Regular community events or gatherings that foster a sense of community
• Overall vibe and feel of the neighborhood to see if it aligns with your lifestyle and preferences

Questions to Ask During Your Tour

If you have questions about anything you see specifically, feel free to ask as you see items that come up during your inspection. As you conclude the tour, make sure to ask the apartment manager these questions before signing a lease:

• When was this apartment complex built?
• How new are the appliances?
• What units are currently available?
• Internet availability?
• Pet policy/pet fees?
• Move-in specials or discounts?
• How are utilities paid, or are utilities included in the rent?
• What is the lease duration?
• Penalties for breaking a lease early?
• What kind of access control is there for residents?
• How are maintenance requests handled?
• Is there an on-site maintenance team?
• What amenities are nearby?
• Is there a dedicated workspace or business center?
• How soon can I move in?
• What deposits do I need to pay?
• What references do you need?
• Can I paint or make changes?
• What’s required before I move in?
• Are there any moving companies you recommend?

Welcome Home to Our Apartments in Joplin

Welcome to your new home in Joplin! If you’re interested in scheduling a tour of one of our properties in and around the city, contact us or call (417) 624-4144. We look forward to meeting you!