Renters’ Choice: Residential Facilities 2.0

MHN and Kingsley Associates teamed up to see what residents think about the technology available in their apartment communities.

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Keyless entry, fast and free Wi-Fi, online payment system, and state-of-the-art computers. These are just a few of the most common tech amenities available in new multifamily developments. MHN partnered with Kingsley Associates to see how renters really feel about the technology available in their homes.

“Love the fire pit, the cozy lobby, and that you can change the big screen TV in the lobby to whatever you want!” —Washington, D.C.

“The one common area feature I like is the computer room, but in the winter it is so cold in there that it is unbearable to work, the computers/software are old and slow, and the printers never seem to work.” —Washington, D.C.

“The entire 15th floor is open to all residents, with a pool and hot tub, big screen TVs complete with DirecTV and NFL Sunday Ticket, pool table, gym and golf simulator.” —Alexandria, Va.

“I love the Bluetooth speakers in the apartment that allow you to play music through the app on the phone!” —Evanston, Ill.

“I love the business center and the fact that printing is free, as well as the Java bar.” —Camarillo, Calif.

“Cell service is terrible and prevents us from working from home. If we move, it will likely be because of the cell service.” —Hoboken, N.J.

“Electric car recharging stations are needed if they expect to attract renters with high incomes.” —Dublin, Calif.

“Tour was good, but the follow-up and quote system were horrendous. The computer system is not effective and the leasing agent is very hard to track down.” —Miami

“Mandatory cable/Internet package is expensive for someone who doesn’t watch cable.” —Charlotte, NC

“The resident portal is somewhat limited as a tool for getting set up for moving in. It would be nice to be able to set up electric, cable/Internet/phone bundles, renters’ insurance, and washer/dryer rental via the portal.” —Atlanta

“The change sometime early last year to no longer have a resident property manager has led to countless problems with inconsistency, maintenance, keyless entry, security, trash, etc.” —San Francisco

“Upgrade to keyless entry for the building. It would be nice to be able to use a fob to get in and out of the building instead of a key.” —Kirkland, Wash.

“I like the cleanliness and good maintenance of the property, as well as the package lockers.” —Berkeley, Calif.

“If we go through the portal with our service request, it takes days before our staff can do the repairs. When you go directly to the office, the service staff has a faster action.” —Livermore, Calif.

“It is always so simple to request maintenance via the website portal (with options already formatted) and usually same-day service.” —Upper Marlboro, Md.

“Communications have come more through pieces of paper instead of e-mail for some reason. I preferred getting most updates through email.” —Marlborough, Mass.

“The best part of living here is the new technology such as the intercom, package concierge and key with which you can’t lock yourself out.” —Los Angeles

“In an age of technology, it’s so nice to actually speak to a real person regarding questions and concerns. The staff members here are extremely prompt, attentive, and caring.” —Los Angeles

“You guys are doing a great job with integration of technology. Continue! Mail system is awesome, payment system is good. How about apps for apartment temperature and status of appliances/locks?” —Atlanta

“A little more info about the technology used for the building at move-in would be nice. For example, there’s an app to access the front and back doors at night that I didn’t know about until I saw another resident use it.” —Philadelphia

“I enjoy the free Wi-Fi and the many washers and dryers available.” —Austin, Texas

“The cyber café is disappointing. There is poor lighting, poor ventilation, inconsistent Wi-Fi, poor maintenance of equipment and the occupants behave territorially.” —Chicago

“Free Wi-Fi should be provided at the pool.” —Baltimore