What Are the Leading Features That Residents Look For in a Rental?
Each year, the Buildium Renter Survey reveals what renters value most,
And the results are remarkably consistent. While preferences shift slightly, the fundamentals rarely change. Across almost every U.S. market, renters prioritize the same key features that directly influence both demand and rental rate.
The concept is simple: rental housing operates under the same laws of supply and demand as any other market. If you don’t supply what renters demand, your property’s perceived value — and achievable rent — will fall.
Year after year, a washer and dryer remains one of the top three most requested amenities. While it adds some repair liability, not offering one typically reduces achievable rent by 5–10% (excluding luxury homes). For many owners, that can mean $8,000 or more in lost rent over time — a far greater cost than the appliance itself.
Understanding these preferences is critical for maximizing your property’s return and keeping it competitive in a fast-moving market.
👉 Learn what modern renters value most and what they’re willing to pay for: Top 10 Things Tenants Want in a Rental
📊 Also explore the latest Buildium Renter Preferences Survey to stay ahead of market expectations.