If there’s one thing I’ve learned in the multifamily industry, it’s this: the best way to ensure your amenities are valued is to ask the people who use them – your residents.
At WithMe, Inc., we regularly survey thousands of residents, and the results from our latest round of questions reinforced something I’ve always believed: practical, everyday amenities win over flashy, trend-driven features every single time.
It’s not about chasing fads or selecting features that look good in a photo. It’s about creating spaces that truly fit into residents’ lives. From coffee bars that power up their mornings to full-service fitness centers and smart-home features that add convenience and control, the amenities residents love are the ones that make life a little easier.
Let’s talk about what really matters to residents and how focusing on practical, impactful options can transform your properties into communities people are proud to call home.
Jonathan Treble is founder and chief executive officer of amenities provider WithMe, Inc.
Why Feedback Outranks Trends
The multifamily industry is never short on trend reports promising to reveal the “next big thing” in amenities. While these reports can be fun to read and may spark ideas, they often miss the mark on what truly matters: the real preferences of your residents.
That’s why, at WithMe, we prioritize data straight from the source—our communities. Our latest survey confirmed what we’ve always known: while national trends can be helpful guides, it’s the local factors, like market conditions and resident demographics, that really tell the story.
For instance, what works for a student housing property – think study lounges and shared workspaces – might look entirely different for a family-focused property, where playgrounds or childcare services shine.
Here’s the simple truth: residents live in your spaces, not in a trend report. Listening to their voices is the best way to create communities that feel like home.
What Residents Actually Use
Too often, properties pour resources into “Instagram-worthy” amenities—rooftop lounges, luxury spas or infinity pools. They’re eye-catching, sure, but here’s the reality: many of these features often go underused.
Meanwhile, it’s the practical, accessible amenities that residents use day in and day out that build loyalty and make life better. Our latest survey highlights what truly resonates:
- Full-Service Fitness Centers: Convenience is everything. A well-equipped fitness center allows residents to work out on their own terms – no extra memberships, no added hassle. In today’s world, this isn’t just a perk; it’s an expectation.
- Coffee Bars: More than just a caffeine fix, a great coffee bar becomes a community cornerstone. Whether fueling a busy morning or serving as a gathering spot during the day, this amenity delivers daily value and fosters connection.
- Pools: Pools aren’t just about swimming – they’re community hubs. Residents use them to unwind, stay active and connect with neighbors. The best pools turn into spaces where relationships thrive.
- Technology-Enabled Amenities: From smart thermostats to community printers, these features don’t just simplify daily life—they empower residents. It’s about giving people control and convenience, seamlessly.
The takeaway? Focus on what your residents value in their everyday lives. These are the amenities that create not just a place to live, but a community to love.
The End of One-Size-Fits-All
The days of cookie-cutter amenities are over. Today’s residents expect tailored experiences, and they want a say in shaping them. WithMe’s high survey response rates show just how eager people are to contribute to the design of their communities.
Creating feedback loops is essential. Regular surveys, focus groups and one-on-one check-ins ensure that amenities evolve alongside residents’ needs. It’s a win-win: residents feel heard, and properties avoid wasting resources on features that don’t deliver value.
This approach also strengthens satisfaction and retention. When residents see their preferences reflected in their living spaces, they’re more likely to stay. And in multifamily, resident retention isn’t just good business – it’s the foundation of a thriving community.
2025 and Beyond: The Practicality Revolution
Looking ahead, one thing is clear: the future of multifamily living is about thoughtful functionality over fleeting trends. The communities that thrive won’t be defined by aesthetics alone, but by spaces that make daily life better, easier and more connected.
At the heart of this practicality revolution is a simple truth: listening is your most powerful tool. Industry trends may inspire, but the voices of your residents will always guide you to what truly matters.
The best communities aren’t built on assumptions – they’re shaped by the people who call them home. As we step into 2025, let’s keep asking the question that drives meaningful change: “What do you value most?”
Jonathan Treble is founder and chief executive officer of amenities provider WithMe, Inc.
