November 16, 2022. When people search for a new place to call home, there’s a lot to consider: rent, utilities, parking, local things to do. For those looking at apartment buildings—especially ones with a “luxury” label—amenities become part of the equation: Is there a gym? A courtyard with grills or a pool? A secure spot for my bike? A fenced-in area for my dog? Something has to justify the higher monthly cost.
Research shows that amenities matter—a lot. In Venn’s 2022 Renters Experience Report, 21% of respondents said physical amenities directly influence whether they’ll renew their lease. For property managers, that’s a compelling reason to keep investing in your amenity portfolio.
So, what should that portfolio include?
More and more, residents are seeking amenities that support their physical and mental well-being.
Many of these wellness-focused amenities, too, build connection among neighbors. More connection means a greater sense of community, which leads to residents feeling more at home, happier, and with a greater likelihood to sign that lease renewal.
Here are seven health and wellness amenities worth adding (or upgrading) to your building.
1. A full-stack fitness center is the ultimate apartment amenity for health and wellness
With the average annual gym membership cost ranging from $622 to $782, it’s no surprise that many renters are searching for apartments that include an on-site fitness center.
Whether it’s a small gym with a few cardio machines or a large facility complete with a half-mile jogging loop and yoga studio, your residents will appreciate a space to work up a sweat without having to travel far or pay membership fees.
2. Apartment amenities for hydration? Try an upgraded water cooler
Regardless of where exactly it’s placed in your building, residents are looking for beverage stations to keep them hydrated during the day. New water coolers like the internet-connected machine Bevi makes allows users to truly customize their hydration experience through different flavors and functional ingredients, carbonation levels, and water temperature.
Having a water dispenser is also a fantastic (and healthy) way to build a sense of community within your building. There is no better way to get residents talking than with 48,000 different drink combinations. Plus, you’ll be making it easier on your building staff who manage trash and recycling, since there won’t be hundreds of disposable bottles and cans to deal with in the recycling bins within common areas.
3. Outdoor spaces: Where residents go to relax and recharge
The best part about offering a dedicated outdoor space as a communal amenity is that it can be personalized however you see fit. From BBQ areas to space for cornhole tournaments, an in-ground pool to weather-proof ping pong tables, you can create a peaceful oasis and attracting feature for all residents to enjoy.
Even if you’re not in a place where the weather is beautiful all of the time, getting outside can do wonders for your mood and mental health. A space to eat lunch outside, go for a short stroll, get some work done, or just lay in the sun can be a necessary reset.
4. Community gardens provide numerous benefits to your apartment building
Improved property value, better resident retention, and less food waste are just a few of the amazing benefits offered by community gardens.
Properties with a community rooftop garden can create gardening clubs, host community events, or even hold contests to boost resident satisfaction. Gardening can also reduce stress, promote better sleep, and even improve the immune system. Plus, there’s no better sense of accomplishment than growing your own food!
5. Bike-sharing: Making it easier to go to and fro
With more people foregoing their cars for bicycles, building managers should consider offering a bike-sharing program as a communal amenity, especially in major cities.
Not only will residents love having a fun way to get around town, but your building will be playing a vital role in protecting the planet. Bicycling produces zero pollution and consumes no fossil fuel, making it an environmentally-friendly mode of transportation.
6. Dog park: Apartment amenities aren’t just for the people
Our furry friends also deserve some fun health and wellness amenities, considering they are also one of your residents. It’s estimated that 23 million American households adopted a pet during the 2020 pandemic. With so many new pet owners, building managers should consider adding pet-friendly amenities if they wish to stay competitive in today’s multifamily housing market.
Your residents will appreciate having a committed place to exercise and socialize their pup, especially on days when they’re busy working and don’t have the time (or available funds) to hire a part-time dog walker. And the dogs will be calmer in the apartment if they have a chance to stretch their (four) legs. Plus, it’s another great way to build a sense of community, since dogs give people an additional reason to stop and interact.
7. Game rooms keep things entertaining and memorable
Having a dedicated place to unwind and hang out with friends is vital to your residents’ mental health and social well-being, which is why we’ve included this particular apartment amenity.
Some fun activities to include in a community game room include ping pong, pool tables, board games, and retro arcade games. Tie the room together with an ambient electric fireplace and you have an apartment amenity your residents will keep coming back to.
Attract and retain residents with these must-have apartment amenities
Though communal amenities are not necessary for managing a successful property, offering your residents a variety of unique experiences can improve retention rates and overall resident satisfaction.
Are there any health and fitness amenities you would add to our list?
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Bevi staff
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