If it wasn’t apparent before how fast renters’ needs and wants change, the past few years have been an excellent indicator, especially when it comes to amenities. While many used to crave rentals that offer a pool and tennis court, there has been a significant shift to a desire for more private amenities. That isn’t to say renters aren’t still looking for communal areas—there are quite a few that are popular—but renters’ needs are evolving to accommodate everything from technology to environmental activism. Below are 10 amenities that are currently in high demand.
1. Outdoor Space
Renters are looking for places to enjoy some sunshine and fresh air where they don’t have to venture far from home. This may include a balcony, patio, or rooftop terrace. Apartments with roof decks are especially appealing to those who are embracing small apartment living. It gives them a place to socialize without cramming everyone into their compact living quarters.
Another outdoor space that holds appeal for many is a gardening area. Growing your own food is a concept that is catching wind again, and people in apartments are writhing for the opportunity to partake.
2. Pet-Friendly
A cat or a dog isn’t just a pet to the majority of Americans—they’re considered family. And there are a lot of renters looking for pet-friendly apartments to accommodate their furriest family member, with 2 out of 3 reporting having trouble finding pet-friendly housing options.
While accepting pets certainly comes with a risk for landlords, there are progressive property owners that are realizing that the demand for pet-friendly rentals is a huge opportunity. These owners aren’t just accepting pets, but are also offering extra amenities like pet bathing areas and dog walking services.
3. Eco-Conscious
According to a Nielson poll of 30,000 consumers, 73% of millennials are willing to pay more for sustainable products and environmentally-friendly offerings. When you take into account the fact that millennials are the largest demographic in the rental market—with no change in sight due to the economic downturn—there are plenty of renters looking for homes that take the environment into consideration.
Amenities that appeal to these eco-conscious renters include garden space, recycling and composting facilities, bike storage, and communal areas that are cleaned with green products. Buildings that use adaptable reuse architecture, like factories repurposed into apartments, also hold a lot of appeal to this generation. While repurposing these non-operable buildings is undoubtedly easier on the environment than demolishing and building from scratch, millennials also appreciate the uniqueness and character that these spaces provide. Especially since 11% plan on being lifelong renters.
4. Dishwasher
When it comes to amenities that renters are looking for, a dishwasher falls in the top 10 amenities searched for. This comes as a surprise since hand-washing is always an option. But according to renters, the convenience of a dishwasher is highly desirable. But then again, who likes doing dishes by hand?
If the dishwasher or other kitchen appliances are energy-efficient, this can double the appeal. Not only is it attractive to those seeking eco-conscious amenities, but appliances that keep utility bills at bay are also highly desirable.
5. Carpet-Free
While this certainly isn’t a new want from renters, this desire is still as strong as ever. Not only is carpet considered out of style by many, but it is also much easier to stain and holds onto odors more than hardwood, tile, or laminate. The concern for odors sticking to carpets is especially strong for those that own dogs.
6. Gym Facilities
Renters don’t want to stray far from home to work out and they are even willing to pay a premium to do so. For example, Boston renters are willing to pay an average premium of $66 for a gym facility that they can access 24/7. It is worth noting that many renters won’t settle for a few dumbbells for this price, though. They want a full-service facility with exercise bikes, treadmills, and exercise class offerings.
What about pools? There is no doubt that tenants are always looking for ways to cool off during hot months. But many would prefer air conditioning installed into their units over a communal pool.
7. Good Internet and Cell Service
With online gaming, streaming services, and working from home being more popular than ever, reliable internet and cell service are crucial for many. In fact, you’ve probably witnessed firsthand the importance of this amenity when a prospective renter pulls out their phone to check their cell service.
8. Large Windows
When it comes to windows, the bigger, the better. This makes sense since windows make rooms feel more spacious, allow plenty of natural light, and can also frame some pretty amazing views. However, part of what has boosted the appeal of large windows may not be any of these perks. Many believe it is due to the indoor plant craze. More people than ever, especially millennials, have taken to owning a collection of indoor plants. Many of which require direct sunlight or diffused bright light.
9. Secure Package Drop-Off
Ordering online is bigger than ever and people want to ensure that their packages are secure. This is why there has been a massive influx in demand for safe, 24/7 package access. Whether this in the form of a front desk concierge or private package lockers, this amenity is a must for many.
10. High-End Amenities
While Millennials still make up the majority of renters, Baby Boomers and their needs are also worth considering, especially since renter households with this demographic are on the rise. If you are marketing to Baby Boomers, they are less concerned about internet and package delivery. Instead, they are looking for spacious master bedrooms, large closets, luxury shops and restaurants nearby, private balconies for social gatherings, and kitchens with high-end appliances.
Amenities are everything when it comes to rentals. More people than ever report that they plan to be life-long renters, so they want a space that provides convenience and style, while still feeling like home. Remember, clients look to amenities not just to envision the rental space, but also how those amenities will enrich and meld with their lifestyle.
Author Bio
Liz Peterson is the marketing and communications coordinator for FLATS, which manages apartment buildings throughout the Midwest. FLATS designs their own spaces with artful interior design in their amenity spaces. Lobbies and lounges become creative spaces for the community to gather.
