Wi-Fi and Broadband Access Ranked Most Important in Apartment Renter Survey

According to the most recent survey conducted by research firm Precision Sample, the most important feature an apartment renter looks for is Wi-Fi and broadband Internet access. It is ranked higher than other amenities including in-room laundry washer and dryer machines as well as a furnished kitchen.

Of those surveyed, 34% ranked Wi-Fi access as the most important apartment feature, followed by broadband internet access. In comparison, only 13% of those surveyed prioritized in-room laundry features as the most important. 75% of the property owners said prospective residents asked about the communications services including internet, phone and TV prior to renting. Only 30% believe that an investment in quality communications services boosts property value however.

Unsurprisingly, young people ages 18-34 prefer high-tech amenities than those older than 50. 82% of all those surveyed also said that they install the latest technology in order to future-proof their apartment. 60% plan to make improvements in energy efficiency this year, which includes switching out to LED bulbs as well as implemented automated smart home features.

The survey polled 205 building managers, building owners and real-estate developers of multi-family properties in the United States in December 2016. The research was actually commissioned by ComCast who provides communications service to more than 14.7 million living units in the United States so this data is valuable for their business.