Looking to get an apartment home with the amenities you need and desire? Many renters look for the comfort and convenience that complements today’s active lifestyles. They look forward to heading home to an amenity-rich environment at the end of a busy day.
To maximize value, prioritize features so you are paying for what you will actually use on a regular basis. Consider these tips, and you’ll feel more confident when evaluating rental properties.
Valued Residence Amenities
There are two kinds of apartment amenities, in-unit and shared. Let’s start with the former.
1. In-unit washers and dryers
Zillow’s annual analysis of rental amenities reveals that renters saved listings offering in-unit washers and dryers 76% more often. Make those repeated trips to the laundromat a thing of the past. In-unit washers and dryers also make it possible to clean clothes at the last minute. Toss that sandy beachwear in the washer the moment you get home. Deal with muddy uniforms following the kid’s soccer games.
In Colorado, you’ll find in-unit washers and dryers at Tempo Nine Mile in Aurora and The Wright in Centennial.
2. Gourmet kitchens
Stainless steel is the material of choice for appliances like refrigerators and dishwashers as it is super-durable and easy to clean. Other popular kitchen amenities include stone countertops and kitchen islands.
In the distinctive Adriatica Village in McKinney, TX, residents of Bell Tower Flats create their culinary magic in gourmet kitchens with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Select units also include kitchen pantries.
3. High-speed internet
Successful apartment communities make a point of offering quality, high-speed internet. What used to be a luxury is now a necessity. Many renters need internet service with enough capacity to handle multiple devices. Work-from-home (WFH) renters require high-speed connections that meet the demands of their jobs.
According to CNET, cable internet is available in 97% of urban areas, while fiber optic internet is available about half the time. Cable Internet offers fast downloads at competitive rates. When available, fiber optic services offer fast downloads and uploads. Cable and fiber services deliver up to 1Gbps speeds, about a hundred times faster than copper broadband. An HD movie that took a half-hour to download in the past can now be downloaded in less than 30 seconds.
4. Private patios and balconies
Patios and balconies multiply your options for relaxing and entertaining. They also offer an opportunity to cultivate flowers and greenery. Balconies are usually accessed from the main living area. Some larger apartments may offer balconies connected to the master bedroom.
In Centennial, CO, The Wright offers its residents private patios and balconies. The same is true at Moda at The Hill in St. Louis, MO. Northwest of Dallas, TX, Crest at Las Colinas Station also includes a patio or balcony with every unit.
5. Eco-friendly features
Many of today’s renters place a premium on eco-conscious landlords. Property owners demonstrate their commitment to the environment in a variety of ways. Energy-efficient appliances and smart thermostats simultaneously reduce energy consumption and carbon footprints. LED lighting may reduce electricity costs by up to 80-90% when compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.
In Aurora, CO, the energy-saving design and features at Tempo Nine Mile led to a green building standards certification. Amenities include energy-efficient appliances and EV charging stations. Popular Community Amenities
Competitive apartment communities also offer an array of shared amenities.
6. Onsite parking
Street parking is a way of life for many apartment dwellers. By comparison, onsite parking delivers real peace of mind, particularly in inclement weather. A quick run to the grocery store doesn’t require another search for a spot upon your return. Zillow’s report also revealed that apartment listings with off-street parking were saved 85% more often.
Hubbard221 offers secure onsite parking in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. Wrigleyville Lofts has a private parking garage, as does Burnham Pointe in Printers Row.
Of course, some urban dwellers pass on personal vehicles in favor of public transportation, biking, and walking. For these renters, a community near a transit station is often ideal. In Irving, TX, Crest at Las Colinas Station is an excellent example.
7. Outdoor amenities
Pools, grilling stations, and other outdoor amenities contribute to a vibrant sense of community. In Phoenix, AZ, Senita at Cave Creek offers a resort-style pool with cabanas along with outdoor gaming areas. Along Chicago’s Gold Coast, those living at 61 Banks Street enjoy panoramic Lake Michigan views from the Sky Terrace.
Rooftop decks are popular in populated urban areas. At Wrigleyville Lofts, residents gather around fire pits on the rooftop deck as they take in views of Wrigley Field and Lake Michigan. At Grand Plaza Chicago, the resort-style pool and sundeck appear to float high above the River North neighborhood.
8. Fitness and wellness centers
Some amenities reduce expenses elsewhere. For example, a state-of-the-art fitness center may save you the cost of a gym membership. In the tech district of Austin, TX, DK Riata offers two large fitness centers along with on-demand classes. In Irving, TX, the clubhouse at Crest at Las Colinas Station includes a fitness center, social lounge, billiards, and flex workstation.
Some luxury apartment communities offer additional fitness options. In Chicago’s River North, Grand Plaza provides a running track and a basketball court. If you’re an avid bicyclist, look for bike-friendly apartment communities.
9. Pet-friendly amenities
Sixty-six percent of American households own a pet, up from 56% in 1988. Therefore, it is not surprising that landlords increasingly address the needs of pet owners. Some communities offer pet-washing facilities and dog parks.
In Chicago’s South Loop, Eleven Thirty maintains a dog spa and a 24-hour dog deck for its residents. In River North, Hubbard221 offers a pet spa and dog run. In Austin, TX, DK Riata features an off-leash dog park and pet washing stations.
About Draper and Kramer
Draper and Kramer is a full-service real estate firm founded in 1893. You’ll find D&K luxury apartment communities in Illinois, Arizona, Colorado, Missouri, and Texas. Browse our complete selection of apartment homes here.
