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What Amenities Should You Look For When Renting an Apartment?

If you’ve recently started the search to find a new apartment, then you may already have some amenities in mind but also be curious about other ones that may be available. To help illuminate the possibilities, find a list of potential apartment and community amenities below, including many of the most desirable amenities for renters, according to Apartment List.

Apartment Amenities

Whether you are looking for a studio, a one or two bedroom apartment or a townhouse-style residence, the amenities of that unit are often one key factor in deciding which new home will be the best fit for you. Some in-unit amenities like stoves and closets may be fairly common, but you may also encounter significant variety in what’s available. If you are searching for an apartment near Cincinnati or in any other location, here are 5 apartment amenities that you may want to include on your wishlist:

1. Storage

From the available closets in a bedroom and hallway to the shelving in bathrooms and kitchens, storage is typically a top priority for many renters. For example, walk-in closets in particular may be a key search feature for your apartment exploration.

2. Outdoor Space

Many renters are also looking for private outdoor space to enjoy. For example, at Water’s Bend, private patios or balconies are an amenity that is available in all of the 1 and 2 bedroom units.

3. Appliances

Appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers and stoves, as well as on-site washers and dryers, are often high on the list of must-have amenities for many renters. Stainless steel kitchen appliances can be an even more attractive upgrade, and having a washer and dryer already installed in the apartment is another.

4. Natural Light

Whether you are interested in city or lakefront views or simply enjoy an abundance of natural light, check out the windows in any potential unit (including details such as noise-reducing panes, specialty blinds, etc.). Similarly, if you are looking for other specific design features like crown molding, a particular type of flooring, ceiling fans, built-in bookshelves, or other lighting features, be sure to include those on your list.

5. Air Conditioning and Heating

In searching for your next apartment, remember to ask about cooling and heating and if these services and related costs are factored into the rent.

Community Amenities

In addition to the amenities in the apartment itself, the community amenities that are available for resident use may also help you determine the ideal apartment for you. From amenities related to pets, security and maintenance to the smart technology, wellness-oriented and eco-friendly amenities highlighted at Redfin as increasingly important to renters, you’ll find a substantial variety in the community amenities available from one place to the next. Here is a sample of the community amenities that you may find, as derived from various Live NAProperties’ locations.

1. Pet park, pet spa, and walking trails
2. Resident and guest parking in garage or lots, EV charging stations
3. Swimming pool, 24-hour fitness center, basketball court, tennis court, yoga studio
4. Resident-only market, coffee bar, bike repair station
5. 24-hour emergency maintenance, package signing and reception, personal concierge services
6. Gazebo with outdoor kitchen, rooftop terrace, fire pits, barbecue grills
7. Game room, theater room, resident clubhouse, tanning salon, billiards room

Frequently Asked Questions about Apartment and Community Amenities

Do all apartments on a particular property feature the same in-unit amenities?

While units may share some amenities in common, others may be available in certain apartments only or for a fee. Additionally, multiple layouts may be available for a one bedroom or two bedroom apartment even in the same building, so the features may vary for this reason as well. For example, at East 8 Lofts, there are nine different floor plans to choose from – just for renters who are looking at one bedroom apartments. Consequently, there is variation between units in the number of oversized windows and the associated views.

Are all amenities included in the rent?

Not all apartment or community amenities may be included in the rent. While an integrated alarm system, a private patio or balcony and full-sized washer and dryer are standard apartment amenities at Centennial Station in Cincinnati’s Hyde Park neighborhood, features like marble fireplaces are only available in select apartments. As another example, on-site parking may be available for all residents at a particular property, but use of a detached garage may require a fee. For pet-friendly apartments, having a pet may require an extra deposit and/or other monthly fees, but these additional costs may then provide access to amenities like a bark park.

How can I find out more about the available amenities?

Apartment websites often provide lists and photos of in-unit and community amenities. However, to check out the current quality or availability of these amenities, see them in person if possible and discuss any limited or fee-based extras with a leasing agent or property manager. You don’t want to choose an apartment expecting to have an additional on-site storage unit, only to discover that none are actually available.

For assistance finding a new home that has the amenities that you are looking for, then contact the leasing experts at Live NAProperties today. We are here to answer any questions that you may have about floor plans, amenities and more!