J. Turner Research recently shared their The Next Gen Apartment: Technology and Lifestyle Preferences of Renters  survey and report which found that overall most residents do not wish to increase expenses for certain amenities but that “residents’ choices are also influenced by convenience and a sense of security.” With 84,924 residents from 1,555 communities responding, this is the largest participation ever for community study.

Value-Added Amenities

Community-based amenities are the most desired above unit improvements which can include energy-efficient appliances, smart home technology or aesthetic upgrades. Pools, clubhouses and fitness centers still reign supreme but have become more expected rather than an attractive add-on.

For communities wishing to further upgrade their offerings other top rated value-added amenities include:

  • Walking Trails/Track
  • Fire Pits/Outdoor Gathering Spaces
  • Playgrounds

Security also proved to be important. A large percentage of respondents said that they’re willing to pay a monthly premium for security amenities such as:

  • Gated-Community
  • Surveillance Solution
  • Controlled Access

The security amenity with the most support is a gated-community. 54% of respondents said they would pay $25 more monthly, while 49% were willing to pay $50 more for the safety assurance.

J. Turner Research’s The Next Gen Apartment: Technology and Lifestyle Preferences of Renters best summarizes their findings, “The bottom line of this exhaustive survey is that renters are undoubtedly cost conscious, they do not want any additional increase in their rents. Their willingness to pay for certain amenities is driven by convenience (…24/7 package lockers), a sense of security (gated communities), and staying healthy and fit (fitness classes and steam rooms).”

ControlByNet Keeps Common Areas Safer and Provides Desired Security to Residents