How important is it for landlords and apartment building owners to offer such green features as energy-efficient lighting, native landscaping that needs less water and community recycling programs? According to a new survey from AMLI, offering such environmentally friendly features can help landlords attract more tenants to their multifamily buildings.
AMLI’s first Sustainable Living Index surveyed more than 2,800 U.S. apartment residents – including many living in Chicago – about how important green features were to them. According to the survey, 84 percent of respondents said living in sustainable/green residences was important to them. A total of 85 percent of respondents said that living in such green residences was beneficial to their health.
Respondents valued certain green features more than others, with 94 percent saying that living in a smoke-free community was important to them and 93 percent saying that they valued energy- and water-efficient features. A total of 85 percent said that being near public transportation was important.
And most important to landlords and building owners? The survey found that 64 percent of respondents said they would pay slightly more in rent each month to live in a green community.
“This survey highlights that residents care about the environment and their health,” said Phil Tague, president of AMLI Residential, in a written statement. “They want homes that enable them to live a greener, healthier lifestyle.”
