Having the right amenities can make or break a renter’s decision–especially in a competitive rental market like Austin, TX. With several options to choose from, renters today are looking for features that make a property convenient, safe, and comfortable. That said, whether you manage a single unit or an entire apartment complex, knowing what amenities renters want in Austin can set you apart from the competition. Read along as we review the importance of amenities and some of the top features renters look for these days.
What Are Rental Property Amenities?
Rental property amenities are the extra features or services included in a lease agreement that go beyond the basic necessities of a living space. While essentials like heating, plumbing, and basic appliances are expected, amenities go above and beyond to make the rental experience more appealing.
Amenities in a rental may include things like in-unit laundry, walk-in closets, community pools, fitness centers, or pet-friendly spaces.
In a city like Austin, where rentals are competitive and tenants have many to choose from, amenities play a crucial role. With that, the right mix of amenities can make a rental more attractive, improve tenant satisfaction, and may even justify higher rental rates.
For property owners and apartment management companies in Austin, investing in the right amenities can lead to better retention, fewer vacancies, and larger returns.
What Amenities Do Renters Want in Austin Apartments?
The rental market in Austin, Texas, is competitive, so it’s important to offer more than just the basics if you want your property to stand out. Most renters are looking for a mix of comfort and convenience, and by understanding what your tenants want, you can make your rental more desirable.
Here are some of the top features and amenities renters want in Austin, TX.
Smart Home Features
On-Site Fitness Centers
Energy-Efficient Upgrades
Convenient Parking
Enhanced Security Features
Walkability
Modern Appliances
In-Unit Laundry
EV Charging Stations
Pet-Friendly Spaces
Smart Home Features
Who doesn’t love the convenience of smart home features? Things like keyless entry, smart thermostats, and video doorbells are major selling points for renters who like using technology to make their lives easier. These upgrades are becoming more expected, especially among young renters.
On-Site Fitness Centers
Access to a gym or fitness center is a huge plus for tenants who prioritize staying active. It’s especially appealing in a larger, more fast-paced neighborhood where renters may not have time to drive to and from a gym. A clean, well-equipped fitness center may even be a deciding factor for some renters.
Energy-Efficient Upgrades
As utility costs continue to rise and the push for greener living gets stronger, energy-efficient upgrades are in high demand. Tenants want features like LED lighting, ENERGY STAR appliances, and smart thermostats to help cut down on monthly expenses. That said, not only do these upgrades benefit renters, but they can also add long-term value to your rental property.
Convenient Parking
Reserved or covered parking spaces are highly valued in many Austin neighborhoods, especially where street parking is limited. Nobody wants to spend extra time circling the block at the end of a long day. So, whether it’s gated parking or a private garage, convenience here makes a huge difference.
Enhanced Security Features
Tenants want to feel safe in their homes, and updated security features are a big selling point. Things like a gated entrance, well-lit common areas, and security cameras on the premises can make your property feel more secure.
Walkability
Many renters, especially in Austin, prioritize walkable access to stores, restaurants, and parks. Being able to quickly get to coffee shops, bars, or grocery stores is a lifestyle perk that’s hard to beat. Additionally, properties in walkable areas usually get rented faster and can justify higher rent prices.
Modern Appliances
Renters today want updated kitchens and modern appliances. Including stainless steel finishes, glass top stoves, and efficient (but effective) dishwashers shows that your tenant’s wants are valued. That said, even if your property is older, upgrading appliances can give it a newer, more desirable feel.
In-Unit Laundry
Having an in-unit washer and dryer is one of the most desirable amenities in a rental property. Nobody likes hauling their laundry to another facility, waiting for it, and bringing it back to fold and put away. The convenience of having this amenity can make or break whether a tenant chooses your property over another.
EV Charging Stations
As electric vehicles become more and more popular, renters are starting to look for rentals with charging stations available. Installing EV charging stations for rental properties, while expensive, can help future-proof your property and appeal to a growing group of eco-friendly renters.
Pet-Friendly Spaces
Austin is a very pet-friendly city, and many renters won’t even consider a rental that doesn’t allow pets. Amenities like nearby dog parks, pet-washing stations, and flexible pet policies can help your property stand out in a competitive market. Plus, welcoming pets can usually lead to longer leases and more loyal tenants.
Why Amenities Matter for Property Owners
In fast-growing cities like Austin, offering the right amenities is very important. After all, renters have plenty of options to choose from, so properties that don’t offer more comfort, convenience, or lifestyle perks may get overlooked. However, if you have the right amenities, you can expect your rentals to stand out, rent faster, and attract longer-term tenants.
Whether it’s something simple like in-unit laundry services or a high-value feature like EV charging, amenities can help you justify higher rent prices and experience fewer vacancies. Remember, happy tenants are more likely to renew their lease, leave positive reviews, and take better care of your property.
So, if you want to boost your property’s appeal (and value) in a market as busy as Austin, focusing on amenities that matter to renters is a great place to start.
Offer Top Amenities With Professional Property Management
The first step in attracting high-quality tenants is knowing what amenities renters want in Austin apartments. By prioritizing your tenants’ wants and needs, you not only enhance their experience, but you also are putting more eyes on your property, which leads to stronger demand, fewer vacancies, and higher rent potential.
If you’re looking for help marketing and managing your properties to attract high-quality tenants, consider working with a professional property management company. Stone Oak Management in Austin, Texas, can help you through every step of the rental process, ensuring your properties and tenants are well-cared for. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive management services.
