In today’s competitive rental housing market, the success of a multifamily property often hinges on its amenities. Both in-unit features and community offerings play a huge role in attracting and retaining residents. With the surge of new developments in fast-growing cities across the country, property owners and developers must carefully consider which amenities deliver real value rather than simply following trends.

It’s true that some luxury apartment communities boast extravagant features such as infinity pools, dog spas, tanning studios, or even sky garages. While these amenities may generate buzz, the real question for property investors is whether the features align with residents’ needs and make financial sense. For example, building a high-end fitness center might sound appealing, but if your renters already prefer the state-of-the-art gym around the corner, that investment could fall flat.

The goal isn’t always to offer *more* amenities, but rather to provide the *right* amenities that deliver convenience, safety, and lifestyle enhancements while boosting the property’s value. Here are five of the most in-demand amenities that balance cost-effectiveness with strong potential returns.

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### 1. Package Lockers

With online shopping at an all-time high, residents want peace of mind when it comes to deliveries. Package theft is a real concern—Swiftlane reports that in 2020 alone, \$6 billion worth of packages were stolen, impacting over 20% of Americans. For multifamily real estate investment companies without on-site concierge services, package lockers offer a practical and secure solution.

Modern package locker systems can be paired with smart technology. When a delivery is placed in a locker, the system instantly notifies residents via text or email, providing them with a PIN or QR code to retrieve their package. While initial installation costs may range from \$6,000 to \$20,000 depending on facility size, the long-term benefits are significant. Tenants gain convenience and security, while property managers enjoy improved resident satisfaction—an important factor in renewals.

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### 2. Smart Home Features

Smart technology is no longer a luxury—it’s an expectation. From smart locks and thermostats to app-based maintenance requests, these features bring efficiency and convenience to both renters and landlords.

Consider smart thermostats: renters enjoy savings of 10% or more on their heating bills, while landlords reduce energy costs in common areas and gain the ability to monitor vacant units remotely. Instead of sending staff door-to-door to adjust temperatures, property managers can optimize energy use with just a few clicks. This kind of automation not only saves time but also enhances operational efficiency. In short, smart features pay for themselves in tenant satisfaction and reduced operating expenses.

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### 3. Green Transportation Initiatives

Sustainability is no longer a buzzword—it’s a demand from modern renters. Green transportation amenities such as bike-sharing stations or electric vehicle (EV) chargers make properties more attractive to environmentally conscious tenants.

Location plays a big role in which option makes sense. In dense urban areas, where many residents may not even own cars, bike-sharing or scooter parking might be the better choice. Meanwhile, in suburban or mixed-use communities, EV charging stations are becoming increasingly relevant. According to KPMG’s Global Automotive Executive Survey, 52% of all new vehicles sold by 2030 are expected to be battery-powered. Installing chargers now positions your property ahead of the curve and signals a commitment to sustainability.

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### 4. Community-Wide Connectivity

In the digital age, reliable connectivity has become as essential as running water. High-speed internet and community-wide Wi-Fi access are top priorities for today’s renters, especially with the rise of remote work and online learning. Offering seamless internet access throughout the property enhances resident satisfaction and can be a strong differentiator when competing for tenants.

For owners, investing in advanced fiber-optic systems or bulk internet agreements can also reduce turnover. Renters are far more likely to stay in a building where they never have to worry about lagging Zoom calls or dropped connections.

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### 5. Pet-Friendly Spaces

The number of pet owners in rental housing continues to grow, making pet-friendly amenities a winning investment. Dog parks, dog washing stations, and pet-washing areas are relatively inexpensive but highly valued by tenants. Beyond convenience, these amenities foster a sense of community among residents, as shared pet spaces naturally bring people together.

Properties that embrace pets also expand their pool of potential renters. Since many landlords still impose restrictions, offering pet-friendly features can set your property apart in a crowded market.

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## Final Thoughts

The best amenities aren’t always the flashiest—they’re the ones that make daily life easier, safer, and more enjoyable for residents while creating value for owners. Package lockers, smart home features, green transportation options, reliable connectivity, and pet-friendly spaces all strike the right balance between practicality and profitability.

By focusing on these high-impact, cost-effective amenities, multifamily property owners can attract quality tenants, improve retention, and future-proof their investments in an increasingly competitive rental market.