Amenities shape the daily lives of a property’s residents. They are not simply marketing tools or leasing incentives, but a crucial component of what makes an apartment community feel like a home. However, not all amenities hold their value.

For example, a luxury golf simulator can cost anywhere from $25,000 to $150,000 to install. A rock climbing wall runs between $30 and $40 per square foot, meaning a 1,000-square-foot wall could total $30,000 to $40,000. Rooftop lounges and theater rooms can push costs even higher with maintenance and insurance fees.

Luxury amenities sound impressive. They look good in brochures. But how often do they fit into residents’ daily routines?

The right amenity package can give a property a competitive edge, but competition alone doesn’t justify an investment. The best amenities aren’t the ones that turn heads, but the practical ones that deliver consistent value and measurable financial returns.