‘What Renters Want’ with Jessica Fiur: 9 Things Renters in Their Late 30s to 40s Want in an Apartment

Renters in their late 30s to 40s are like a fine wine: If they’re not housed correctly, their moods will turn to vinegar. These renters want what they want. They likely have careers, families, responsibilities… In short, they’re adults, and would like to live as such, thankyouverymuch.

9 Things Renters in Their Late 30s to 40s Want in an Apartment

Near work or transportation. Renters in their late 30s to 40s have probably spent more of their lives working than not working. So time not at work–with their families, friends, or alone with the latest issue of People and a Snickers bar–is precious. They don’t want a long or difficult commute. Definitely stress how accessible transportation is or how much a building parking space costs.

Safety. After a long day at work, the last thing these renters want to do is defend themselves against someone trying to rob them of their paycheck–the government does that enough (bah-dum-cha!). Seriously though, and especially if these renters have a family, safety is a huge issue. Let them know if your apartment has 24-hour security, a video call box, etc.

Near good schools. Again, many of these renters have kids. And little Sam and Matilda will definitely factor in when parents are considering that lease, so consider listing all the nearby schools and having some ratings handy. A bonus would be to know where the bus stops, etc. are located.

A family-friendly area (and areas in the building). Little Sam and Matilda might be going to a good school, but then come those pesky weekends, and parents need to be able to entertain their children. Are there things for them to do around town? Other kids in the building? How about a playroom or daycare in the community? You’ll earn yourself brownie points by mentioning this during the apartment tour.

Space. In your 20s, a one-bedroom unit filled with four roommates (and probably some cheap beer) is fine. In your late 30s to 40s, this is not fine. This is actually pretty terrible.

Elevators. Got a fifth-floor walk up? To quote Roger Murtaugh, “I’m getting to old for this.” Renters in their late 30s to 40s do not want to schlep their groceries up five flights of stairs. Speaking of…

Near grocery stores. Bars take a back seat to these renters, who are more likely to go out for an occasional nightcap (and be back by a decent hour so they can have a good night’s sleep for work tomorrow) than go to an all-night bar crawl. But they do need access to grocery stores, especially if you’re in a city where many people do not have a car.

A space that’s good for entertaining. While they might not be burning the midnight oil at the local bars, renters in their late 30s to 40s do like throwing dinner parties and entertaining. Point out if the apartment has a chef’s kitchen, an eat-in dining room, or a living room that would comfortably fit a lot of people and a big screen TV.

“Non-sexy” amenities. In-unit washer and dryer? Dishwasher? Additional storage space? These amenities might not have the cache of a community spa with yoga classes, billiards room, or a doggy salon (seriously, that’s a thing), but renters in their late 30s to 40s will absolutely want them.

What else do you think renters in their late 30s to 40s want?

Also, read what renters in their early 20s want, and what renters in their late 20s to mid 30s want. 

-Jessica Fiur, News Editor