Has COVID-19 Changed Features Renters Want in a Rental Property?

Although COVID-19 continues to impact our lives in various ways, we're still seeing a strong rental market here in Kitsap County, WA. But what details really entice prospective renters? We've compiled the latest information so that you know what features and amenities are popular right now across the nation, and in our area.

More Want to Know About Local Delivery Options

There are many perks that can attract renters: nearby parks, gyms, restaurants, movie theaters,  and public transportation options. The pandemic has obviously shifted most renters' focus since certain amenities are limited or aren't available right now. But renters still want to know what the surrounding community offers. They're often looking at it from a different angle right now. Instead of wondering which restaurants are nearby, many want to know what food delivery services are available. They also want to know that their packages will be safely delivered since online shopping has greatly increased due to COVID-19. Many are avoiding large public spaces to reduce the spread. According to research done by Bain & Company, "at the height of the pandemic, online grocery sales increased as much as fivefold to between 10% to 15% of total grocery sales." Experts don't think this online ordering trend will disappear. Many have now discovered the convenience of online ordering, downloading apps and making online purchases on a weekly basis. It's part of their new normal. So it's important to have delivery information available to those looking to rent, and to assist tenants who are new to the area.

An Increased Focus on Connectivity

Staying connected to our loved ones and our colleagues has become increasingly important during this time. Reliable cell coverage and high-speed internet access are very important to the majority of renters.  The 2020 NMHC/Kingsley Apartment Resident Preferences Report surveyed over a quarter million renters to see which apartment and community features they value most. The report found that 91% of all renters said this was important, or very important in their decision to rent and 92% of residents expressed interest in high-speed internet, ranking 4th in most highly ranked apartment features. And, this survey was conducted before the pandemic. Now that so many people are working remotely, these features are undoubtedly even more important.

Space is Even More Desirable

Lots of smaller cities and towns are seeing increased demand when it comes to those looking to buy and rent homes. Many can't afford to buy a home right now but they can report to work with one click vs. a commute.  That means crowded cities where infection rates are high are often seen as less desirable as their neighboring, smaller cities that provide more elbow room.

Offering more space within homes is also on the rise, particularly here in Kitsap County. We recently connected with Windermere Property Manager, Dawn Clay, about renting vs. selling and she said, "3- and 4-bedroom homes, priced correctly, are the fastest to rent" in Kitsap County. She also added that homes with more than one bathroom and a garage or carport are also in demand in our area. In Buildium's recent survey, they found that "nearly 47% of single-family residents and more than 50% of multi-family residents responded that a backyard was important in their rental decision". With the majority of children currently attending school at least partially online, parents want to make sure that their children have adequate space to play.

Still Very Important: High-Quality Management

Regardless of whether someone is looking to rent an apartment or a house, tenants want to know that if there's a problem, someone will quickly come to fix it. When homeowners use a reputable property management company like Windermere Property Management / West Sound, they know they will have the peace of mind that industry professionals will be there to manage tenant communications and maintenance, providing a positive experience for both the homeowner and the renter. Quality of management is such an important deciding factor that 31% of apartment renters say that's what motivated them to move, according to the 2020 NMHC/Kingsley Apartment Resident Preferences Report.

While not every rental home can offer all of the amenities and features that people are looking for, it's important that every tenant feels safe. Our Windermere Property Managers are taking precautions to keep properties and viewers as safe as possible, wearing masks, following CDC guidelines, and limiting showings to no more than 3 people in the home at one time. We also work hard to provide the best experience possible for our homeowners and our tenants, making sure that properties are in good condition and that all parties feel valued and heard.