What are the top 5 amenities?

Curious... What do you believe to be the top five amenities renters look for when considering a new home?

Keith,
I think that when it comes to amenities that it depends on where your properties are located at and what the other properties in the markets offer.

At some of our most northern locations where the weather can go from one extreme to another (hot and humid in the summer to subzero temps in the winter) having the heat paid included is something that many people look for, however in some of our other locations that have less severe weather conditions having the heat paid is not as significant, but maybe something like central air as opposed to wall unit a/c's is more important.

Hi Kevin,

I think this is going to vary from market to market. AC may be necessary in Phoenix but not in Anchorage. Parking may be requested in a metro area, but not is a suburban area. Carports/garages are expected in Michigan but not in North Carolina.

That being said, I am seeing washer/dryer in the unit or at least connections is
an amenity that is asked for more and more. In student properties, wifi is asked for.

For me as a renter, I didn't care about the pool, tennis court, dog park, playground, fitness center (although they are here). My top priority was the location & price, not the amenities! And I think that is true for many folks.

Thanks, I appreciate your opinion. I Did not think about regional equation to this questions so glad you mentioned it.

Location and price are big draws, but the rent at my place is already $50-$75 higher than the rent at my comps and I am 100% occupied.

Most of my customers that come in state that their favorite amenity is the indoor pool and although this is not an amenity, my biggest draw is my reviews on apartmentratings.com.

Agreed with everyone... If you want to find out what your top five amenties are for your property... ask your current residents why they rented there. Surprisingly, the biggest draw for my residents in the large closet in the bathroom! I would have never assumed it would have been an amenity until a group of girls came in about 4 years ago and was excited about it... I have used it in my selling pitch and it does make people lease.. yes a closet in a bathroom! haha

One more thing~~When I moved to Asheville, NC 4 years ago, I became the 'renter'. It was an enlightening experience!! We all sell boxes, mostly white boxes at that. What I actually 'bought' was the staff and the company reputation. The customer service and caring is what made the difference for me!! They gave me maps of the area, suggested places to go and things to do!! They asked if we need help moving our things in. They made relocating much easier!! If I really want a pool, tennis courts, fitness center, etc. I can join a the Y. It came down to the people, not amenities!