Speedy Wi-Fi ranks No. 1 on renters’ top five amenity list

Renters are fairly practical when it comes to what they most desire in their apartments and high-speed Internet access tops their most important amenity.

A new survey from the National Multifamily Housing Council and Kingsley Associates revealed the amenities that renters want most and are willing to pay for. The survey is based on responses from nearly 120,000 apartment dwellers.

“Magnificent clubhouses and media rooms may look great on tours, for both prospective residents and equity investors, but they often don’t get used as much as you’d think,” said Jay Denton, senior vice president for research and analytics for apartment data firm Axiometrics.

Here are renters’ top five most-desired amenities:

1. Fast Internet access
2. Parking
3. Walk-in closets
4. Soundproof walls
5. Private outdoor spaces, such as patios or a balcony

Location is another important element for renters. More than half of residents surveyed say they prefer to live within walking distance of a grocery store or a neighborhood restaurant. “Being near shopping, retail, and restaurants is a huge amenity,” said Denton.