Not all online reviews are accurate
The first thing to bear in mind related to online reviews is that they may not be all factual. A few may even be shams, posted by trolls or the landlord or property management company to add to their image. Certain reviews may likewise be exaggerated in either direction, positively or negatively, resulting from matters unconcerned with the property or even the landlord. When reading reviews, search for those that seem to be from checked and verified sources, like those from current or past tenants with verifiable profiles. Ignore the rest.
How to read and assess a review
When you understand how to look for verified reviews, it’s necessary to read and assess them effectively. You can check a review by utilizing the following clues:
- View the language and tone used by the reviewer. Are they making use of specific, detailed examples, or are their complaints vague and general? Is the reviewer emotion-driven or granting a more objective analysis of their experience? Go in search for reviews that endow both positives and negatives regarding the property. A review with only glowing praise or harsh criticism may not be as true.
- Don’t just concentrate on the star rating. Dig deeper into the specific comments and criticisms constructed in the review. Are they valid concerns or just easily fixable circumstances?
- Seek patterns in countless reviews. Do certain issues come up repeatedly? Are they regularly positive or negative? Did the landlord answer the review, try to make things right, or thank the reviewer for their review? This can aid you to get an ideal and better picture of the overall experience at the property.
- Call to mind your priorities and preferences when reading reviews. A negative review about noise levels may not be as vital to you if you work from home and don’t plan on having usual visitors. Something that may be a dealbreaker for one person may not matter as much to you.
Examples of good and bad online reviews
A great review may speak about the exact features of the property, and personal experiences, such as “The management team is very responsive and accommodating. They fixed a plumbing issue in my unit within 24 hours.”
An awful review may be excessively dramatic or vague, for example, “This place is a nightmare. Do not move here.” The latter lacks definite examples or evidence to back up their claims. Always think of the language and tone used in a review and the source of the review when examining its reliability.
The importance of evaluating reviews correctly
It’s relevant to properly evaluate online reviews when looking for a new rental property. Misleading or fraudulent reviews can present you with a false impression of the property and cause potential issues and disappointments in the future. Before you make any decision concerning property, take into account visiting it in person to obtain a first-hand look at the rental and chat with the landlord or Camarillo property management company.
Generally, bear in mind to take online reviews with a grain of salt and use them as one tool in your rental decision-making process. By correctly assessing reviews, you can make a more informed decision and possibly have an ideal rental experience.
Are you in the market for a new rental home? Contact Real Property Management Limitless to view better listings in your area! You can also browse our rentals online.