What Do Tenants Want?

By E-Renter Tenant Screening
Posted on December 28, 2009 under General, Housing Trends, Landlord Tips, Marketing for Landlords | Be the First to Comment

Higher rental inventories and overbuilding, plus foreclosed homes and job losses combined to create one tough rental market in 2009—and it’s predicted to continue through 2010.

So what will make your rental property stand out from the rest? With tenants in the driver’s seat, asking for lower rents and other amenities, what can landlords and property managers offer them? What do quality tenants want?

Price, price, price: Tenants want to be sure the rent is in line with the going market rate.

Location, location, location: Parents want to be close to their child’s school. Most everyone prefers to be close to their work. Students like to be close to campus and to nightlife. Families want to be close to parks, grocery stores, downtown, the library—you get the picture. Convenience is a big factor.

Cleanliness: A spotless rental unit will appeal to everyone.

Fitness facilities: Apartment complexes with a bright, clean fitness room with newer equipment that works properly will score higher with most tenants.

Garages: A garage with an automatic door opener is a big draw to most mid-to-upper income tenants.

Appliances: Dishwashers are almost a must. Everybody loves washer/dryer hookups. And if your rental has the washer and dryer as well, it will be scored higher than one without.

Closets and storage: People need space to store their stuff. Lots of closets inside, plus decent outdoor storage for their toys are most appreciated by higher-income tenants.

Accessibility: For older renters and those with physical limitations, easy access to the property shows that you care (and for certain properties, is mandated by law).
Think about the type of tenant you want to attract, and add the improvements that will attract them. If your rental unit already has everything your target tenant wants, make sure your advertising says so!