Ways to replicate sunlight?

Hi friends,

I'm hopeful you can help me.  I'm relocating to another state in 2 weeks for a 6-month work contract, and I have been trying to find a nice, spacious fully furnished rental that we (I and my baby girl) can slide into seamlessly online.  It's been quite a challenge because you can only judge a space based on pics and trusting the owner/realtor to be honest and truthful about the place.  

My biggest concern is: does the place get adequate DIRECT sunlight? My girl is 15yrs old and loves nothing more than basking in the sunshine, so it's imperative that the new place has direct sunlight.  

I think I've found a place (unfortunately it's 2-stories, which will bother her arthritis) but it appears to get some sunshine during the day.  I can't tell how much because in the pics, it appears to just barely come in the windows. The realtor says it gets sunshine, but I can't know for sure.  

My question: Is there a way to replicate sunlight? I had an idea that I could try purchasing one of those lamps they use in the photo studios for shoots, since they're bright and hot?  Or perhaps something else?

If anyone could provide some ideas, I would greatly appreciate it!!   

What about the light boxes sold for Seasonal Affective Disorder? I'd be VERY wary of studio lamps - they get crazily hot, and they're not all that stable. Too much of a hazard (and fire risk) imo.