What are Apartment Amenities? Types & Benefits

By: ROS Team

Apartment hunting can feel overwhelming, with square footage, location, and price at the forefront of your mind. But there’s another key factor to consider: amenities! These features can elevate your everyday living experience, from in-unit conveniences to swanky social spaces.

Let’s dive into the world of apartment amenities, exploring the different types and the benefits they offer for both renters and property owners.

What Are Apartment Amenities?

Amenities in apartments are the features or services that come with your apartment rental in addition to the basic living space. These can be things inside your unit, like a dishwasher or in-unit laundry, or building amenities that all residents can use, like a gym or swimming pool. Amenities can be a big factor in choosing an apartment since they can make your life easier and more enjoyable.

What Are the Most Important Amenities in Apartments?

When it comes to apartment living, certain amenities stand out as key priorities. Security and convenience are often at the forefront, so features like in-unit laundry facilities, secure building access, and reliable internet connectivity rank highly.

Beyond these essentials, other desirable amenities may vary based on individual lifestyles. For pet owners, pet-friendly policies and outdoor spaces can be crucial factors. Those with vehicles might prioritize ample parking options. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts may value access to recreational areas like parks or trails.

Types of Apartment Amenities

Amenities in apartments can be generally classified into two categories:

1) In-unit Amenities
2) Community Amenities

1. In-unit Amenities

In-unit amenities are features or services that are found within your individual apartment unit. These amenities are designed to make your apartment a more comfortable and convenient place to live.

Some of the most common in-unit amenities include:

In-unit laundry: This is a huge convenience for many renters, as it saves them from having to go to a laundromat or share laundry facilities with other residents.

Air Conditioning or Central Air: This is essential in many climates, as it can help to keep your apartment cool and comfortable during the hot summer months.

Pet-Friendly Units: If you have a pet, you’ll need to find an apartment that allows pets. Some pet-friendly apartments may also offer additional amenities, such as dog parks or pet washing stations.

Dishwasher: This can save you a lot of time and effort in the kitchen.

Patios and Balconies: These can provide you with some outdoor space to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.

Fireplaces: These can add a touch of ambiance to your apartment and can also help to heat it during the winter months.

Smart Thermostats: These allow you to control the temperature of your apartment from your smartphone or other device.

2. Community Amenities

Community amenities are amenities that are shared by all of the residents of an apartment building or complex. These amenities can provide residents with a variety of opportunities to socialize, relax, and exercise.

Some of the most common community amenities include:

Swimming Pool: This is a great way to cool off on a hot day.

Rooftop Deck: This can provide residents with stunning views of the city or surrounding area.

Terraces: These are outdoor spaces that can be used for sunbathing, grilling, or entertaining guests.

Playgrounds: These are a great place for children to play.

BBQ Arrangements: These allow residents to grill outdoors.

Fitness Centers: These allow residents to stay in shape without having to leave the building.

Movie Theaters: These can be a great place to watch a movie with friends or neighbors.

Covered Parking with Storage Areas: This can protect your car from the elements and provide you with a place to store your belongings.

Laundry Facilities: If your apartment unit does not have its own laundry facilities, you may be able to use the laundry facilities that are shared by all of the residents of the building.

Concierge Services: These can provide residents with a variety of services, such as dry cleaning pickup and delivery, grocery shopping, and dog walking.

Are Apartment Amenities Free?

Amenities in apartments aren’t always free. The cost may be bundled into your rent, charged as a separate amenity fee, or some amenities might be entirely free to use. It’s important to ask about fees before signing a lease.

How Much Do Apartment Amenities Cost?

Apartment amenity costs vary widely, but typically range from free to $50 per month extra, with some reaching up to $500 one-time fees. It depends on the amenity and whether it’s part of the rent or a separate charge.

Benefits of Amenities for Renters and Owners

Renters

Better Living Standard: Facilities like in-unit washer/dryer, fitness centers, and swimming pools enhance convenience and comfort, boosting renters’ quality of life.
Increased Value for Rent: Though amenities may increase rent, renters gain more benefits compared to a basic apartment. It’s a fair exchange for enhanced living.
Social Interaction and Community: Shared spaces like courtyards or recreation rooms promote social interaction and bonding among neighbors. This fosters a strong sense of community.
Attract and Retain Tenants: In competitive markets, sought-after amenities can help retain existing renters. They also attract responsible tenants looking for enriched living experiences.

Owners

Higher Rents and Lower Vacancy Rates: Properties equipped with sought-after amenities can justify higher rental rates. Moreover, these properties tend to remain occupied for longer periods, reducing vacancy-related financial losses.
Increased Property Value: The presence of desirable amenities directly contributes to the overall value of a building. This makes the property more attractive to potential buyers, allowing for better resale opportunities.
Competitive Advantage: By offering amenities tailored to specific tenant demographics, property owners can differentiate their offerings and gain a competitive advantage in a crowded real estate market.
Tenant Satisfaction: Tenants who enjoy the amenities provided are more likely to be content with their living situation. Consequently, they are more inclined to renew their leases and take better care of the property, reducing long-term maintenance costs for the owner.

Are Apartment Amenities Negotiable During Lease Negotiations?

Amenities in apartments are negotiable to a certain extent. While you can’t typically remove them, you might negotiate a lower rent if unused amenities come with a fee, or get free use of rarely used ones in exchange for a slightly higher rent.

Can I Request Additional Amenities in My Apartment?

It depends! Landlords may be able to accommodate requests for minor additions or upgrades depending on feasibility and cost. It’s always worth asking, especially if it’s something simple.

What Happens if an Apartment Amenity Becomes Unavailable?

When an amenity becomes unavailable, the landlord’s response hinges on the specifics outlined in the lease agreement and the reason behind the closure. Typically, property managers should promptly inform residents and make efforts to restore the amenity swiftly.

Depending on the significance of the amenity and the level of inconvenience caused, tenants may have a valid claim for a temporary rent reduction or alternative accommodations while a solution is being implemented.

What Amenities Do Renters Want?

Renters prioritize a mix of in-unit conveniences like laundry and dishwashers, along with building amenities that enhance their lifestyle, like pet-friendliness, fitness centers, and outdoor spaces.

Can a Landlord Take away Amenities?

Taking away amenities is a gray area. Landlords generally can’t remove essential services or those promised in your lease. For non-essential amenities, they might have more leeway but should notify you and consider rent reduction if it significantly impacts what you were paying for.

Related Article: Apartment Gym Amenities