With plenty of rental properties to choose from, tenants can make their decisions according to a rental’s amenities. When properties and location are similar enough, choosing one over the other can be down to the amenities they desire.
Depending on a tenant’s needs or lifestyle, some amenities are
more attractive than others. For those who commute to work, having a good parking spot is essential. For those who have plenty of belongings, more storage spaces inside a rental space are preferable.
If you are a landlord that owns a rental property or you are planning to
convert your home into a rental, consider what features of your property are amenities and how to highlight these features to attract quality tenants.
Here’s a list of the top amenities tenants are consistently looking for:
1. Walkability
Is the rental near to a grocery store? What about schools? Are there plenty of shops around? Can one make a mad dash to a convenience store when it’s midnight? These are typical questions renters might ponder when considering a rental unit. When everything is within walking distance, it cuts down on commute costs, time, and effort. Areas such as parks, entertainment hubs, and restaurants can be accessed through a quick stroll, which can increase the quality of life of tenants.
It’s also a good walking exercise to step out and meet friends in a convenient place. That’s why walkability is high on everyone’s list. It’s enjoyable to walk a short distance rather than driving somewhere.
2. Good parking area
If I have my own car, is a designated parking spot available to me? Is there a guarantee that my vehicle won’t be stolen? If it’s raining hard, is there a parking spot where my vehicle is less exposed to the elements? These are understandable questions that a tenant might ask. Those who drive a long way need their vehicles to be in top form. So a secure spot for parking is favorable.
In a densely packed city where parking can be notoriously difficult, having a solid parking area is appreciated. It also reduces great stress knowing that the car is safe and secure. A vehicle is an extension of belonging and having a designated place for parking leaves a tenant with a feeling of peace.
As an added benefit, you can charge tenants a parking fee. That's just one way that you can
maximize your rental income without raising the rent.
3. Extra storage space
How many shelves and cabinets does the rental home have? Is there a walk-in closet? Are there additional convertible spaces? Most renters are seeking for a rental space where they can bring their entire belongings. Large families who have accumulated plenty of things over the years will want to stay in a rental with extra storage spaces.
Open up more spaces in your rental unit. Have
designated storage areas so the rental home can be clutter free. Walk-in closets are particularly attractive to women who have accumulated a collection of clothes, shoes, bags and accessories for a long time.
4. Soundproof walls
Are the walls thick enough to block out the outside noise? Can we filter out the sounds coming from a neighbor? If your rental unit is exposed to the street and nearby buildings then soundproof walls are a blessing to renters.
Privacy will always be welcomed. Soundproof walls let the tenant enjoy staying inside the property in peace. It can be difficult to sleep at night when one constantly hears street noises. That’s why a rental unit who has soundproof walls is rated very attractive.
5. Building amenities
What building amenities are available? Is there a gym, pool and lounge area? Do you have a fitness and recreation center? Renters enjoy living in an apartment or tower complex where they can take advantage of several amenities. They don’t have to travel far or buy a membership for these various convenient services.
A place that’s designed to be a one-stop shop delights renters. It also encourages community engagement since they can congregate with other residents. Sometimes, multi-unit properties tend to look alike so people choose based on the common amenities they can enjoy with their friends and family.
6. Outdoor spaces
How much backyard space is available? Is there a spacious front? Do you have a patio, balcony or garden area? Renters enjoy having extra outdoor spaces to convert into different functional areas when the occasion arises.
For example, when one needs to host a barbecue party, it’s much easier to entertain guests at the outdoor area. For those who like cultivating plants, a garden area is best. For families with young kids, they would also enjoy setting up trampolines outside or swings for their kids to play around.
7. Kitchen upgrades
What does the kitchen look like? What kitchen appliances are available? Does the kitchen look updated? What is the countertop made of? The kitchen area compared to other rooms of the rental property tends to be evaluated in detail. As people usually gather in the kitchens to prepare and share meals together, it’s a popular spot of the house.
Renters expect modern appliances with sleek features. They want sturdy counters such as granite tops where
wear and tear is hard to show up. Floorings are also taken into account since some can be difficult to clean up. The kitchen is where liquid spills and stains can frequently happen. So it’s essential that the area be loaded with easy to clean features. A spacious and attractive layout is also highly prized by renters.
8. Central air conditioning and heater
Do you have cooling and heating systems? In a place where summers can get humid and the cold can be extreme, having centralized systems can be very convenient. It distributes the cool and heat around the rooms efficiently.
Renters also love to adjust temperature control quickly.
It increases one’s comfort. Noise is also kept to a minimum. The air is cleaner and the circulation is healthier with the air quality from a central system.
Final Thoughts
For the landlord’s part, splurging on amenities is part of remaining competitive in the rental industry. Different amenities suit different kinds of residents so highlight the one that brings the most value to a tenant. Make sure that this is what your target market prioritizes. Otherwise, you’ll be spending on unnecessary things. Focus on what amenities make the most impact to your chosen demographics to serve.
If you’re looking for a full-serviced rental property manager, contact Dawson Property Management now at (704) 438 9834. You can also check out more information at
www.dawsonpropertymanagement.com.
