4-Plex Walk Through - Dos/Donts

[Mark S.]

I'm currently analyzing and will likely shortly be walking through two different four-plexes. I've been mostly walking through vacant/REO properties in the past, so it's been a non-issue, but how do you approach walking through a property that has tenants in place?

I'm sure some of you might like that so you can get a better grip on "what" you're buying (i.e., existing tenants), but it makes me a bit uneasy. I think it's awkward and I'd prefer tenants not know who I am. Am I being a baby about the whole thing and just need to get over it, or is it better to just ask to walk the property when none of the tenants are home?

Also, what are the main things you're looking for as you walk the individual units? Do you talk to tenants if they're there? Are there certain things I should/shouldn't ask (like, "how much are you paying in rent right now?"), etc.?

Thanks in advance.