Understanding Your Residents: Remote Workforce
Renters who work from home have some very specific wants and needs. Here are some key factors for multifamily properties seeking to attract and retain them.
The pandemic didn’t just change where we work, it transformed what we expect from where we live. The share of remote workforce residents has surged, turning remote work from a temporary fix into a lasting option that shows no signs of fading. Multifamily communities are racing to keep up, drawing on lessons learned during the lockdown, when nearly half of U.S. employees suddenly found themselves working from home.
This shift is far from over. Owners and property managers are continually fine-tuning their offerings to serve this growing group of people. The ideal living space for remote professionals now requires a holistic rethink of the business plan, placing a premium on spaces purpose-built for productivity.
To truly meet the needs of remote workers, upgrades are happening at every level: from reimagined unit layouts and smart design choices to enhanced amenities and a renewed focus on lifestyle and well-being. Marketing and communication strategies are also evolving to highlight these new features. And behind it all, demographic insights and smart use of technology and data are proving essential for getting it right in this new era of work-from-anywhere living.
Unit layouts for remote workforce residents
Remote workers need more than a place to live with a kitchen table for their laptop—they need a dedicated or adaptable workspace inside their apartment, no matter the unit size.
Think spare rooms transformed into home offices, cozy nooks with built-in desks, or even glass-paneled office rooms that offer privacy without sacrificing natural light. The goal? Spaces that deliver the comfort, functionality and productivity remote workers crave, all while supporting a healthy work-life balance.
One-bedroom apartments with a den or flex room are especially popular among work-from-home residents. These extra spaces easily fit a desk, a chair, shelving and task lighting, making them perfect mini offices. For those living with partners, two-bedroom units are a smart choice—one bedroom can double as a guest room and a dedicated office, keeping work and relaxation separate.
READ ALSO: How Work From Home Influences Multifamily Design
Versatility is key. Residents want the freedom to customize their living and working spaces, so creative design solutions are essential. Modular furniture, adjustable lighting and smart home technology enable residents to transform closets into workstations or turn an empty wall into a productivity hub. In today’s multifamily communities, making room for work means rethinking every square foot to meet the needs of the modern remote workforce.
High-speed internet and tech infrastructure
When it comes to remote-working residents, reliable connectivity is a make-or-break feature. High-speed internet is a must-have, along with plenty of power outlets and USB charging stations scattered throughout both units and common areas to keep devices fully charged and ready. Access to office essentials like printers, scanners and copiers further elevates the work-from-home experience, helping properties attract and retain remote workers.
Privacy and soundproofing are equally crucial. Minimizing distractions through soundproof walls and acoustic treatments in both private units and shared workspaces creates an environment where residents can focus and thrive.
On top of that, smart technology enhances convenience and security. Features like video intercoms, resident apps for community engagement, package management systems and upgraded concierge services make daily life smoother and safer for the remote workforce. Together, these elements create a seamless blend of comfort, productivity and peace of mind.
Common-area amenities upgrade
To create effective work zones within living spaces, more multifamily developments are adding shared coworking lounges, work pods and quiet areas designed to support different work styles. It’s also becoming common for these communities to offer private rooms equipped with videoconferencing technology, which residents can easily reserve through a booking system. These shared spaces complement the in-unit work setups, providing alternatives that help reduce isolation and foster a sense of connection among remote workers.
Chances are that many of those who work from home prefer to work out from home, as well. Hence, fitness centers, yoga studios, wellness programs, and walking and biking trails are also essential amenities in multifamily communities. These features support both physical health and mental well-being, helping residents maintain balance while working remotely.
Beyond fitness, community events, networking sessions and social spaces play a vital role in combating the isolation that can come with remote work. They foster a sense of belonging and connection among residents. Popular event ideas for work-from-home communities include happy hours, wine and food tastings, pool parties, holiday celebrations, art workshops, game nights, outdoor movie nights, group walks and pet-friendly meetups. These gatherings create opportunities for residents to unwind, socialize and build meaningful relationships right where they live.
Marketing apartments to remote workforce residents
Remote workforce residents require tailored messaging and strategies that resonate with their needs and priorities. Highlighting features like high-speed internet, dedicated workspaces, flexible lease options and community amenities designed for work-life balance will capture their attention. Emphasize the property’s value proposition by showcasing flexible living arrangements, wellness programs, coworking spaces and technology-enabled conveniences that support productivity and well-being.
Incorporating virtual tours and streamlined online leasing processes also appeals to remote workers, who may be relocating or prefer contactless experiences. Finally, leveraging data and demographic insights to segment your audience and personalize marketing content ensures you connect with different types of remote workers, from digital nomads to hybrid employees, making your property a top choice for their evolving lifestyle.
READ ALSO: How to Market the Resident Experience
Beyond the walls of individual homes, remote workers invigorate local economies, support neighborhood revitalization and contribute to a richer, more connected community fabric. In this evolving landscape, catering to remote workforce residents isn’t just good business, it’s a key driver of sustainable growth and community vitality.
