Multi-family properties have always been ahead of the curve when it comes to offering highly sought-after amenities. Prospective residents begin to evaluate a property before setting foot in their own apartment and they now expect professional property management, state-of-the-art spaces and services, and a sense of community cohesion from the depart from any place they would choose to call home.
This “hotelization” has only grown in importance as more people turn to multi-family properties to provide a place to live, as well as a place to work, socialize, relax and creating lasting social bonds. Landlords must continually raise the bar to meet demand and exceed tenant expectations. Of course, the rewards are worth the investment.
Amenities play a vital role in fostering connections among residents and transforming multifamily properties into vibrant communities. It may even cause residents to stay longer. Here are some ways major landlords are leveraging amenities to support residents in their daily lives:
Live Amenities
As apartments continue to shrink in size, common spaces play a crucial role in improving the quality of life of residents. These spaces serve as shared extensions of residents’ homes, and understanding how residents use these areas is essential to designing amenities that meet their needs.
During the pandemic, many properties have beefed up their outdoor spaces, adding grill stations and refreshing other communal gathering places to help residents spend more time outdoors and provide much-needed socialization. Today, these spaces can be reactivated through collaborations with local chefs and restaurants to host cooking demonstrations or wine tastings, strengthening the sense of community and connection inside and outside of the property.
Likewise, hosting a monthly book club in an otherwise underutilized social environment requires virtually no overhead, but provides residents with a regular opportunity to connect in a meaningful way.
Work amenities
In the era of hybrid work, residents need functional workspaces that meet their professional needs. Infrastructure is not the first thing people think of as an amenity, but it is one of the most essential. Providing high-quality, reliable internet connectivity is no longer optional but essential for residents, whether they are working, playing or simply staying connected. A managed Wi-Fi service is essential and property managers must select reliable providers to ensure seamless internet services.
Common workspaces should serve as an extension of residents’ living spaces to allow residents to comfortably balance their work and personal lives. Take inspiration from office workspaces to consider adding a combination of private spaces that meet individual work needs and communal tables that can bring people together to work together.
Wellness equipment
Wellness is a multifaceted concept that extends beyond traditional fitness centers. Modern multi-family properties incorporate holistic wellness amenities that include meditation zones and quiet spaces. No longer confined to a windowless room with a few treadmills, residents are looking for welcoming fitness spaces that can accommodate a range of activities, from traditional workouts and stretching to yoga, Pilates and yoga. meditation. Some properties will even hire an outside instructor or partner with a local fitness center for weekly programming.
Just like hotels and restaurants, it’s the little things that count. Complimentary towels, infused water, or a bowl of fruit are stylish touches that increase resident engagement. Following trends is another step to delight residences. Some properties are transforming underutilized tennis courts into pickleball courts and racquetball spaces into multi-faceted areas for table tennis or golf simulators that prioritize socialization and engagement.
The key is to leverage amenities that work best for residents and provide a variety of activities they know and love to foster a greater sense of community investment.
Be the host with the most
Recognizing that multifamily properties are not only places to live, but also a resident’s home, owners must strategize with a strong emphasis on customer-centered service, the cornerstone of hospitality . The most attractive amenities have evolved over the years as the demographics of multifamily residents and their preferences have evolved. While physical amenities play a crucial role, it is equally essential to understand resident preferences and behaviors.
In the ever-changing real estate landscape, staying close to the customer is essential. The multifamily sector has witnessed a transformation driven by changing demographics, remote work and the desire for community. To remain competitive, property owners and managers must be proactive in connecting with their residents, hearing their desires and following through on them as a valued and trusted partner.