The Leasing Advantage: What Renters Want

When marketing your property, the goal is to appeal to as many renters as possible. It’s important to highlight what renters want, but that’s difficult to do since everyone wants different things. What makes a place a dream home for one person doesn’t necessarily appeal to another. However, there are a few basic things most people are searching for. By highlighting these things, you can appeal to the most renters.

Responsive management

One of the most common complaints from renters is unresponsive property management. When maintenance requests don’t get filled or when complaints go unresolved, it can impact how renters feel about a location. Renters want to know that if there’s a leak from the apartment above or the oven is broken or the closet door needs a new hinge, someone is going to respond quickly and politely. Not having the burden of repairs is one of the best perks of renting, and the cost is built into the rent, so make sure renters are aware that your property is responsive and cares about their needs.

Safety

Safety is a big concern for most renters. They want to feel secure in their home, so make sure you highlight safety features at your property. Things like lighting in the parking areas, conducting background checks on all potential tenants, having an alarm system, providing smoke detectors and a sprinkler system, and fostering a strong sense of community are all important things to making residents feel safe. Knowing that management will respond quickly to security concerns will make your property more attractive to potential renters, as well.

Convenience

Some aspects of your community just won’t work for some renters. Location is a big factor, and while you can’t control where your property is situated, you can highlight what your property is near. Grocery stores, shopping plazas, and easy highway access can all help renters imagine life in your apartment community. If you’re near a park, pet owners or those with kids might consider your property over ones that don’t offer that access. Being near hospitals and other healthcare facilities may appeal to older renters. When looking for a home, renters want to know how easy their commute will be, where they can grab dinner with friends, and where they can pick up a gallon of milk.

Family- and pet-friendly

Renters with children or those with pets are looking for a place not just for themselves, but for their family members, as well. If you are near a park or have an on-site playground, be sure to highlight this. Mention the local schools, bus stops, and access to sidewalks. If your apartment community is pet-friendly, highlight any pet amenities you might offer, such as an on-site dog park or pet-washing station. Showing that you care about all residents, even four-legged ones, will go a long way to making potential residents feel welcome.

Ambiance

Just as location is a personal preference, so is the overall aesthetic of your apartment community. Some people want a sleek, modern space. Others prefer historical elements and an old-world charm. Many renters want hardwood flooring, while others prefer carpet. Some want open floor plans; some prefer separate rooms with purpose. While it’s impossible to appeal to everyone, highlight the features most renters are looking for, such as open kitchens or large bathrooms. While a renter might be looking for stainless steel appliances, they may overlook the lack of those if the kitchen has ample counter space or a large island.

It's impossible to appeal to every renter, but by highlighting the features renters want most, you may be able to attract a greater number of future residents.