WASHINGTON, DC - The top amenities for apartment residents include high speed internet access, a patio or balcony and in-unit washer/dryers, according to a new landmark survey by the National Multi Housing Council (NMHC) and Kingsley Associates.
The study included a sampling of residents from twelve industry-leading multifamily firms who own and/or operate over 550,000 units across the United States. The nearly 15,000 resident responses from more than 1,400 apartment communities cover top apartment features, community amenities, pet-specific features, online communications, property management perceptions and many other areas. The report also includes market-specific information for 22 metro areas, as well as data segmented by age, income, apartment class and other demographic variables.
"This is the most comprehensive survey of residents we have ever fielded, and we're finding a treasure-trove of information that will provide invaluable insight for the multifamily industry on just what our residents value in their apartment homes," said NMHC President and CEO Doug Bibby.
"This survey goes beyond 'how did you hear about us' to better understand what renters value most, how they make their renting decision, what service standards they expect and what amenities are preferred for their chosen lifestyles," according to David C. Smith, VP and COO, at Kingsley Associates. "Whether you are in marketing, development or operations, this report provides valuable information that can be used to drive business decisions."
Selected highlights from the 2013 NMHC / Kingsley Associates Survey of Apartment Resident Preferences include:
The top apartment features for residents are high speed internet access, patio/balcony, washer/dryer and garbage disposal, with 88 percent or more rating these as important or very important.
By comparison, only 70 percent rate cable TV as important or very important – less than features like a ceiling fan, granite counter tops or a walk-in pantry.
The most popular community amenities are a fitness center (84 percent rating it important or very important), package delivery room (78 percent) and community-wide internet access (70 percent).
Despite the interest in Internet access, only 30 percent of residents expect their apartment community to have a Facebook page.
A package containing the full report along with all 22 metro areas is available for sale at $2,360 for NMHC members and $2,950 for non-members. The national report is available individually at $1,000 for NMHC members and $1,250 for non-members. Individual markets are also available for at $440 per market for NMHC members, $550 for non-members.