‘What Renters Want’ with Jessica Fiur: Why Standard Features are Not Amenities
It's great to have certain things at an apartment, such as a microwave, but that doesn't give you a license to brag.
By Jessica Fiur, Senior Editor
I wouldn’t even consider renting an apartment that didn’t have a microwave.
It’s not that I can’t cook. It’s just that the inclusion of a microwave in an apartment kitchen seems so standard that if an apartment didn’t include one it would seem really strange.
Recently I came across an infographic on the Lincoln Property Company blog that lists the top 20 amenities, according to the NMHC. Included, along with a microwave, are other “amenities” such as a refrigerator, cable TV and high-speed Internet.
But these aren’t amenities. Not really, anyway. Maybe these items used to be considered amenities; but now, with so many new communities competing for renters, these features are pretty much standard. People just assume that they will be included. Don’t have them? Then say goodbye to a large portion of your potential renter pool.
So what should you advertise? Amenities renters want, but that not all apartments necessarily have, like a gym, rooftop access, or online rent payment options. Or amenities that are a little different that will help your community stand out, like food trucks or fitness classes.
Read the entire blog here.
