Most Important Apartment Amenities
When searching for an apartment it’s important to remember that all apartments offer something different. The vast variety of different features, additions, and amenities are what can make or break an apartment. Depending on the kind of person you are, you might value different amenities more than others but it’s important to keep these amenities in mind while searching; as they can help narrow down your decision making process.
Amenities play a part in the overall cost of an apartment. While a long list of apartment features may raise the cost from its base rate, it may actually end up being cheaper than having to find substitutes for these amenities on your own.
While we all lead different lives where different amenities might offer more benefits than others; there are some overall amenities that could help improve all of our lives. When looking at apartment properties, these are some of the most commonly desired amenities.
In-Unit Amenities
Often the first amenities we think of are the in-unit amenities. These are the amenities that are offered to the resident as part of their personal living space. These are great features to make an apartment really work for you.
Washer and Dryer
The first thing most of us value in apartment amenities is an in-unit washer and dryer. This can be one of the biggest selling points for an apartment. No one wants to have to plan out a weekly expedition to the local laundromat and have to pay by the use. It is also an added benefit not to have to wait for others to finish the communal washer and dryer in order to get your laundry done.
With an in-unit washer and dryer. You can get laundry done at your own pace. If you spill something on your favorite pants or need to wash that dress shirt for tomorrow’s meeting you can do so without having to worry about getting it done.
Air Conditioning
Air Conditioning can be an often overlooked amenity but one that makes a big difference. If you aren’t thinking about the need for air conditioning when considering a new apartment, you probably won’t see the value in it until you really need it. Here in Chicago, we are known for our brutal winters but summer temperatures can be just as drastic. Having an A/C unit can completely change your summer experience for the better.
Utilities Included
Having utilities included in your overall monthly rent can be a great feature. Having a flat rate to pay each month makes things simpler in your personal finances. Utilities can often vary in cost from month to month based on your usage and it is a great relief to know what you will ultimately pay, regardless of your usage.
Dishwasher
You often don’t realize the value of a dishwasher unless you have had to live without one. While washing dishes by hand is not the most difficult task, having a dishwasher can be a great timesaver and allow you to spend your time doing other things. If you cook a lot or live with multiple people, a dishwasher is almost a necessity in order to maintain a clean kitchen. Consider if the apartment you are looking at has a dishwasher; so that you don’t end up with a kitchen overrun by dirty dishes.
Community Amenities
With the rise in apartment buildings and luxury apartments, the attraction of community amenities has grown. Community amenities are shared features or services offered by the property owner to all residents, regardless of the unit they live in.
While these community amenities offer individual residents a personal value they can also help build the community atmosphere for an apartment, something that is unique to each building. These shared amenities give residents a chance to mingle with their neighbors and find common interests.
Gym
Having a gym or fitness facility in your apartment building can be a great added bonus, especially if you are someone who is physically active or needs some added incentive to start getting into shape. One of the biggest struggles many of us face is getting the motivation to go to the gym in the first place. With a fitness center in building this makes that initial struggle a lot easier to overcome. If you aren’t feeling like leaving your apartment or find yourself with some free time you might be more inclined to go downstairs and get a workout in.
Gym memberships can also be a costly monthly expense; with fitness equipment on-site you can avoid that extra fee. Similarly, if you are looking to start exercising more, you might as well be taking advantage of the equipment you are already paying for.
Swimming Pool
A pool can be a great way to relax or get in some cardio. While you may not use the pool everyday it is a luxury feature that many people find enticing. Whether you are someone who already makes a habit of swimming or an infrequent patron, you may find value in having a pool just a short walk from your apartment.
High Speed Internet
As the internet becomes more and more interwoven with our everyday lives the assurance of having a stable and responsive connection is a must. Finding the right internet provider for you can be a hassle, especially if you have just moved to a new city. With high speed internet provided as an amenity by your apartment owner, you can skip the inconvenience and get straight to work.
Laundry
If you can’t get in-unit laundry the next best option is to have in building laundry. While you might have to worry about if the machines are currently in use, you don’t have to take your laundry out on the street just to get it cleaned.
Doorman
Having a doorman or the assurance of extra security can make a big difference when looking for an apartment. While a doorman might be the amenity that increases rent prices the most, It can also offer a great deal of difference. If you live in a high traffic area, such as the downtown of a city, having a doorman allows you to know that no one unwanted is allowed into your building; keeping yourself and your possessions safe.
