When it comes to picking the right apartment complex, tenants tend to have four things on their short list of must-have amenities. Billingsley Co GM/SVP Christina Natal tells us what she hears people want the most.
1) WiFi
Christina says our mobile society demands the ease and convenience of connectivity regardless of where we are. Laying out by the pool and want to answer email? No problem. (You can send yourself an email reminder to wear sunscreen.) The most successful complexes will offer amenities like this to stay competitive.
2) Fitness Center
Whether people exercise regularly or not, the access and availability of a fitness center always draws their attention, Christina says. At Thousand Oaks at Austin Ranch in Texas, there's also hike and bike trails and sand volleyball courts. (That's also attractive to groups who like to recreate scenes from Top Gun for fun.)
3) Dog Parks
How much will you love my dog? That's what renters want to know, she says. About 60% of residents have pets (with most being dogs), and most have at least two dogs and consider them family, she says. As a result, dog parks are popping up everywhere. Residents want a place where they can interact with other dog owners while they let their pets run free without a leash. (Is anyone else impressed with the height that dog is getting on his leap?) Matthews Southwest's Jack Matthews says massive dog parks like the one pictured make urban living easier for dog owners (and their dogs) by giving them a place to socialize off the leash.
4) Swimming Pools
These aren't your dad's pools either. Not only does the pool provide a beautiful backdrop for residents to hang out and visit, but many newer complexes have beach entry, loungers, and bars set in the water with a big emphasis on the outdoor living area, Christina tells us. Outdoor kitchens and grilling rank high, too, she says.
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