Want to Attract More Renters? Consider These Standout Outdoor Multifamily Amenities

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The majority of renters aren’t looking for fancy outdoor apartment amenities. Simple property upkeep is generally more important in most cases. But if you’re looking to rent out your property and the competition is stiff or your rental is lacking in some areas, certain outdoor amenities could attract people who wouldn’t otherwise give your place a second glance.

Besides, people need a mix of activities to be healthy. Offering the right kind of outdoor spaces on your property promotes physical and mental health. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, adults need 150 minutes a week of moderate to intense aerobic activity. This could be things like walking a dog, swimming, biking, and more. With the right changes, you could offer these kinds of extras to renters.

With so many options out there, it isn’t easy to know exactly what to do so your listing stands out. To make the best choices, pay attention to the needs of the renters in your area and cater to them. After all, every investor knows that happy tenants are the best tenants! It may mean more work for you, but having proper outdoor amenities will give you the competitive edge needed to attract and retain renters.

Why are outdoor amenities so important?

Outdoor apartment amenities benefit both you and your tenants. Evidence shows says being outside helps lower your blood pressure and reduce stress levels. For tenants, it allows them to connect with nature and feel the sunshine. This could be even more important for those who live in big cities.

And for you as the owner, having these outdoor add-ons means you can charge more for your space. These amenities increase the overall value of your property. And if you ever decide to sell, you’ll get much more than you originally paid for the investment.

Overall, tenants are looking for outdoor amenities that improve their quality of life and make their apartments a place they want to come home to. Renters like conveniences like assigned parking and allowing pets. These may seem like obvious choices. However, other additions can make a property look inviting and peaceful. Here are a few options you can add to your property so that you and your tenants get the most out of it.

Pet amenities

People love their pets and don’t want to leave them behind when they move. You can use this as an asset to attract renters. Allowing pets can mean that you retain your renters longer, so you don’t have to go through a long vetting process so often. Plus, you can always add a pet fee on top of the rent. Here are some pet-friendly outdoor apartment amenities:

• Fenced-in yard or green space
• Dedicated dog park or play area
• Walking trails
• Pet boarding options
• Pet training
• Pet spa

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Community amenities

Especially for renters living alone, it’s important to reach out to others around them. Humans are social creatures, and building a community is a great way to support mental health. Having an open, shared space means that your renters can easily lounge and get to know each other. Plus, if your tenants have kids, they could build lasting friendships with other parents. Here are some options you can implement on your property:

• Pools
• Hot tubs
• Community gardens
• Recreation rooms
• Rooftop terrace
• Rooftop deck
• Playroom or playground
• Meeting space
• Computer room
• Spa
• Firepit
• Yoga studio

Sports amenities

Sports can be a big part of a person’s life, and plenty of people choose where they’ll live based on how easy it will be for them to maintain an active lifestyle. Having the following facilities will make it that much more likely residents will continue to rent from you. And you may even introduce someone to new hobbies. Consider adding these options to your property for a competitive edge:

• Basketball court
• Tennis court
• Shuffleboard
• Sport equipment rentals
• Juice bar
• Weight room
• Indoor or outdoor gym
• Bikes
• Storage and closets for equipment

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Vehicle amenities

Depending on where you live, the weather can be a big factor. There is extreme weather like hurricanes, tornados, snow, hail, and even high winds that can cause damage to cars. Renters prefer living where their vehicles will be safe.

Easy parking, in general, is convenient for people from all kinds of lifestyles. Older adults, people with small kids, and those with disabilities may not want to park far from the building. Here are some things to consider adding to your property to make parking cars easier for your renters:

• Covered parking
• Garages and carports
• Assigned parking
• Car washing stations
• Electric car charging stations

Security amenities

People need to feel safe in their homes. Not only will residents avoid or stop renting apartments that make them feel uneasy but also you as the property owner could face legal troubles for not providing a safe environment. To maintain renters’ quality of life, you need to make security a main concern. Although the following may not seem like typical outdoor apartment amenities, don’t overlook these as options. Here are things you can implement for safety:

• Gated entries
• Security patrol
• Lawn care
• Snow and leaf removal
• Keyless entry
• Security cameras

Even though there are plenty of outdoor amenities that renters enjoy, don’t follow any particular trend. As the property owner, you must pay attention to the market around you and make the best choices for your investment. These outside attractions can grab the attention of prospective tenants and give them a reason to choose your property over others that they’re considering. Use the outdoors to market your location to the best of your ability, add value to your property, and create an environment both you and your tenants will love.

Note By BiggerPockets: These are opinions written by the author and do not necessarily represent the opinions of BiggerPockets.