Every year, Multifamily Leadership hosts the Multifamily Women Summit, a transformative two-day conference designed to help female multifamily leaders strengthen their networks, expertise and influence.
Women on the WithMe leadership team had the opportunity to attend this year’s conference in Phoenix, and they left with several valuable pieces of wisdom and inspiration.
It’s time to get back to the basics.
The multifamily industry is experiencing implementation fatigue after deploying a wild array of technologies, services and solutions in a desperate attempt to navigate the “new normal” and the unknowns caused by the pandemic.
Now, trying to understand what to keep, what to get rid of and what to add is an exhausting game. It's time to get back to the basics. At the end of the day, the ultimate goal should be to drive value for residents.
Ready or not, AI is coming.
There are big concerns and scary realities involved with the emergence of AI, but when leveraged correctly, it can be used to enhance experiences. To make the technology less intimidating, be proactive in educating yourself about it and uncovering the best ways to utilize it in your unique situation.
To take things to the next level and drive the results you’re totally capable of, you need to push boundaries, be creative, be innovative and play.
"You've gotta go slow to go fast."
It’s important to take the time to slow down, train your team, define terms and get on the same page. In the moment, it may feel tedious, but it pays dividends to be able to run fast once you’re out of the gate.
We’re all in this together.
Conferences like Multifamily Women provide an important reminder that multifamily is a rare and unique industry. At the end of the day, everyone is kind and willing to help each other out. Many people have accidentally stumbled their way into it, but once you get into multifamily, you stay in multifamily because the people are unmatched. Whenever you feel alone or overwhelmed, remember help and support are always a phone call, text or social media message away.
Building community is more important than ever.
Our country is facing an “Epidemic of Loneliness.” The Surgeon General reports that 1 in 2 American adults report experiencing loneliness - and that was well before the pandemic forever changed the world.
And loneliness is far more than just a bad feeling. It increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety and even premature death.
Suffice it to say, residents are craving connectedness. They want to feel like their walls are not merely a place to sleep, but a place they can truly call home.
At the end of a lease, the feeling of belonging and connectedness typically carries more weight than the rate itself when making the decision to renew.
Shared amenities can be incredibly powerful community-building tools. They encourage resident interaction and can become the focal point of events and social gatherings. If you’re looking to level up your amenities, the team at WithMe is here to help you not only find the right solutions for your property, but to help you utilize them to bring your residents together and strengthen your community.
Multifamily proptech company hires renowned sales leader to support rapid growth.
Chicago - (September 18, 2023) WithMe, Inc. is pleased to announce that Dave Dexter has joined its leadership team as Senior Vice President of Global Sales, bringing extensive sales leadership and multifamily expertise to the organization.
Dexter is an experienced sales leader in the multifamily space. Prior to joining WithMe, he served as Vice President of Multifamily Sales for Luxer One for 3 years. He also spent nearly a decade leading winning sales teams at RentPath.
An ardent believer in the associations shaping the industry, Dexter has proudly served as a member and a leader of multiple multifamily organizations. He has served on the board of directors of the Space Coast Apartment Association (SCAA), The First Coast Apartment Association (FCAA), the Southeast Florida Apartment Association (SEFAA) and as an alternate board member for the Florida Apartment Association (FAA).
Dexter is also a proud member of the National Apartment Association (NAA). He currently serves on the technology committee, but has also been part of the Apartmentalize conference committee.
"It is an honor and a privilege to join the WithMe team," says Dexter. "WithMe’s amenity solutions are truly exceptional, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to further the company’s mission to make life better for property management professionals and residents."
"We are thrilled to have Dave at the helm of our sales team,” says Jonathan Treble, WithMe’s Founder and CEO. “His incredible track record of success, paired with his extensive knowledge of the multifamily industry and his unparalleled leadership skills, will help WithMe continue to grow and become an undisputed leader in tech-enabled amenities.”
Named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America for three consecutive years, WithMe is expanding its sales team to support fast growth. WithMe’s resident printer amenity, PrintWithMe, is currently available in more than 3,500 locations. Demand for SipWithMe, the company’s coffee amenity launched in 2021, has been incredibly strong. SipWithMe is currently available in 22 major markets, and plans for rapid expansion are on the horizon. As a whole, more than 80% of the top 50 National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC) property management companies rely on WithMe amenities, and the company’s solutions now serve more than 1 million apartment homes.
About WithMe, Inc.
WithMe, Inc. makes people's lives better every day through convenient, technology-powered amenities for the multifamily industry and beyond. WithMe’s PrintWithMe and SipWithMe solutions make resident printing and coffee simple, helping property management leaders deliver an elevated living experience and meet evolving resident needs for remote/hybrid work spaces, while simultaneously decreasing spend, controlling costs and saving time for staff. PrintWithMe powers printer amenities and staff solutions at thousands of multifamily, cafe and coworking locations across all 50 states. SipWithMe, which is now available in major markets, is disrupting the coffee amenity category. WithMe is an Inc. 5000 fastest growing company, appearing on the list for the past three years. Learn more at www.withme.com.
At WithMe, one of our core values is customer obsession. We routinely survey our clients to gather feedback about their experience and satisfaction with our resident coffee amenity, SipWithMe.
Our latest survey was completed by multifamily professionals representing properties all across the United States. We asked participants to tell us which aspects of SipWithMe they find most valuable - and why. Here are the top five answers, accompanied by candid feedback.
SipWithMe is hassle-free for residents and on-site teams. Residents can quickly customize and order beverages on their electronic devices or the machine's built-in HD screen. On-site teams are thoroughly trained on simple maintenance procedures to keep the device operating efficiently, and supplies can be ordered directly through the machine. Plus, if anything goes wrong, live support is available 7 days a week.
“The machine is better, and the quality of the coffee is better. It’s a nicer experience visually and way more user-friendly. We can count on SipWithMe if something goes wrong, which was not the experience I had with prior companies.” -Allison Kolman, Bozzuto
SipWithMe partners with a local craft roaster in every market to ensure devices are always stocked with fresh, high-quality beans and consistently dispensing barista-quality beverages. Coffee lovers can choose from a wide variety of options ranging from traditional black coffee to velvety lattes, while those not looking for a caffeine buzz can opt for decaf or decadent hot chocolate. It's an amenity with something for everyone.
"Our residents love the new SipWithMe coffee and machine. I have received multiple compliments on the variety of brews they can select from, how easy the machine is to use, and the flavor of the coffee. The team here is very impressed with the machine and the quality of the coffee!” -Sherry Haney, Security Properties Residential
Residents love free coffee - but some of them also love to take advantage of it. SipWithMe's proprietary Cup Allowance technology gives property managers the unique ability to select the number of free cups each resident receives each month, helping to control costs and usage.
“We were seeing expenses in some of the buildings where it was, at the height of it, $8,000 a month in coffee supplies. That's a massive number. So if you can trim down and set a flat number for that, your investors are so much happier with you. You're forward thinking.” -Juan Mendoza, Peak Properties
Budgeting for coffee amenities, particularly DIY setups, can be exasperating. With no way to control usage, wild variances and skyrocketing costs are all too common. SipWithMe helps property managers regain control of their coffee amenities. Packages are all-inclusive, completely taking the guesswork out of budgeting.
"I value the ability to successfully manage my budget due to the static cost." -Jeff Holmes, Bozzuto
SipWithMe's clean lines and glossy black finish were designed to complement even the most well-appointed, high-end spaces. A stunning HD video screen, customizable LED lighting, and transparent coffee bean hoppers create a magnificent visual display that delights residents.
"It's snazzy and cool." -Nicole Gibson, Morgan Group
Multifamily property owners are always on the lookout for ways to stand out and attract more residents, and with rising rent prices (and the rising cost of living in general), innovation is crucial.
One trend that's gaining traction is the addition of high-quality amenities that not only add value but also enhance the living experience. In today’s competitive market, owning a property is so much more than just offering a place to live. You've got to create a community and lifestyle that residents want to be a part of.
Integrating amenities such as SipWithMe cultivates an environment where residents feel at home, engaged, and taken care of. This shift towards more lifestyle-oriented amenities reflects the evolving expectations of residents who are looking for convenience, quality, and a touch of luxury in their living spaces.
Coffee is much more than just a morning ritual or a midday pick-me-up. A cup a day is a ritual for many, and coffee is a universally loved beverage that brings people together.
Implementing a coffee amenity for multifamily properties brings moments of connection and community.
With SipWithMe, residents have access to a high-quality, self-serve coffee station right within their living complex, making it easier than ever to grab a cup of their favorite brew.
This amenity encourages residents to gather, share conversations, and strengthen community ties, all over a delicious cup of coffee. It's a simple yet incredibly effective way to foster a sense of belonging and togetherness among residents.
Aside from its ability to bring people together, coffee boasts numerous health benefits that are sure to appeal to your residents.
Coffee is rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients, contributing to overall health and well-being. Regular coffee consumption has been linked to a lower risk of several diseases, including Parkinson's disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. It also enhances mental alertness and improves mood, making it a fantastic way to start the day or get through a sluggish afternoon.
Want to learn more about how coffee can save lives? Check out our blog post!
We often think that receiving a treat has to include some kind of trade-off, because normally it does. You want a fancy car? It'll cost a pretty penny. Want a hotel with a great view? You'll probably have to pay up. It's natural to think that adding an elevated amenity like SipWithMe would require rent prices to increase, and the last thing property managers want to do is drive away residents.
But that isn't true! SipWithMe was designed to treat your residents to convenient, barista-quality without sacrificing affordability. In fact, SipWithMe can actually help you save money in the long run! With all-inclusive monthly pricing and customizable cup allowance packages, property managers have more control over their budgets and can better manage expenses. The added convenience of a self-serve coffee station can even help increase revenue over time, commanding the attention of prospective residents.
Click here to learn more!
One of WithMe's core values is customer obsession. We routinely survey our clients to gather feedback about their experience and satisfaction with our resident printer amenity, PrintWithMe.
Our latest survey was completed by multifamily professionals representing hundreds of properties across the United States. We asked participants to tell us which aspects of PrintWithMe they find most valuable - and why. Here are the top five answers, accompanied by candid feedback.
PrintWithMe was designed to make resident printing simple and convenient. Completely wireless and self-serve, residents can quickly print from any electronic device by uploading documents via the PrintWithMe website, iOS app, or email.
"I absolutely love PrintWithMe. They make it so easy to keep the machine up and running. The technology is user-friendly for my residents, and we always get our supply shipments on time. This has become a much more popular amenity in my building since we switched to PrintWithMe!" -Hayley Morgan, Greystar.
PrintWithMe is virtually hands-off for on-site teams. Devices are remotely monitored for technical issues, and low supply levels. When paper or toner runs low, replacements are automatically shipped. Plus, all technical support is handled by the PrintWithMe team.
"PrintWithMe has been an easy solution to an amenity that was constantly causing headaches for residents and our staff. We know the monthly cost, and there is an inherent value in not having unexpected issues with the printer itself, supplies on hand or resident error." - Emily Paulino, Village Green.
The Wall Street Journal recently reported that a community printer was the most-desired amenity in multifamily.
PrintWithMe offers residents 24/7 access to wireless printing, as well as live support 7 days a week. They no longer have to rely on on-site teams to print their documents during normal business hours - or deal with the constant aggravation of an unreliable device. Convenient, reliable access to a top amenity leads to increased resident satisfaction and higher retention.
"PrintWithMe has been an excellent solution to our residents' printing needs. It's easy, convenient, and works great. I was surprised at how much use it gets! Plus, it reduces our workload and requires practically no maintenance. Truly a must-have for any residential property!" - Stephen Seltzner, Simpson Housing.
The WithMe team remotely monitors the paper and toner levels of every PrintWithMe device. As soon as one starts to get low, a new supply is shipped immediately. The only thing the property has to worry about is filling the paper tray and installing new cartridges.
"PrintWithMe takes printing out of the property's hands almost completely. Our residents find it easy to use, and we never have to worry about running out of paper or toner! PrintWithMe takes care of everything in the background, and we get to forget about our printer until a new paper delivery arrives - a delivery we didn't have to ask for!" -Chelsey Brinson, Core Spaces.
PrintWithMe gives residents 24/7 access to wireless printing. Documents can be uploaded at any time, anywhere, from any wireless device through our website, in our app, or by email.
"The communication with PrintWithMe is fantastic. They are always responsive to our needs, and our residents enjoy the ease of not having to disturb management for copies. It's self-serve, which is what people want." -Conrad Fultz, RC Residential Management.
Interested in finding out even more reasons why multifamily professionals love PrintWithMe? Check out our survey results report.
Our survey shed light on the top reasons multifamily properties love PrintWithMe.
But there’s more.
You're already aware of the staples that make a multifamily property stand out — modern amenities, strategic location, and top-notch security. And you're undoubtedly aware of the reasons multifamily property owners love PrintWithMe. But what if we told you there's so much more that self-service printers bring to the table? From convenience to savings, PrintWithMe adds so much more that changes how current and potential residents see your property.
Self-service amenities are swiftly becoming a cornerstone of modern living as residents increasingly seek ways to streamline and simplify various aspects of their daily routines. This growing demand spans a wide array of services, from the convenience of using printers to the simplicity of grabbing a morning coffee from an automated machine. The essence of this shift lies in the desire for immediacy, efficiency, and autonomy in managing one's time and tasks without the need for direct interaction or assistance.
The appeal of PrintWithMe resonates strongly with the modern resident's preference for self-service solutions. PrintWithMe directly addresses the growing demand while making life easier for multifamily property owners. This effortless solution takes the stress out of growing and advancing your property.
Let's talk numbers. Owning a personal printer sounds great until you start adding up the costs of ink, paper, and maintenance. And for those who don't print documents daily, the investment hardly seems worthwhile. This is where PrintWithMe steps in to save the day — and some dollars. By providing a communal, high-quality printer, both residents and property owners can enjoy the flexibility of printing whenever they need without the financial burden of owning and maintaining a printer. This setup is wallet-friendly while bringing quality prints and tech to your building.
Prospective tenants touring your property and discovering a PrintWithMe printer on-site add profound benefits. This amenity instantly elevates the property's appeal, showcasing your commitment to modern conveniences and technology. In an age where renters have countless options at their fingertips, amenities like these can set your property apart. A self-serve printer can help make a statement that your property can and will meet the lifestyle demands of today's and tomorrow's renters.
Residents are increasingly looking for eco-friendly living options, and PrintWithMe printers align perfectly with this ethos. By centralizing printing services, property managers can significantly reduce waste and promote more responsible use of resources. This can also bring a larger culture of sustainability within your community. Plus, with advanced features, PrintWithMe printers make it easy for residents to play their part in protecting the planet.
Beyond the convenience and cost savings, PrintWithMe printers foster a sense of community among residents. Shared amenities create natural gathering points and opportunities for interaction, strengthening the social fabric of your property. Whether it's a quick chat while waiting for a document to print or a shared appreciation for the convenience of on-site printing while working from home, these interactions add to a vibrant, connected community. That adds a level of comfort that separates your multifamily property from others.
PrintWithMe is about providing an indispensable amenity that enhances the living experience for every resident. From bolstering the appeal of your property to supporting eco-friendly initiatives and fostering a sense of community, the benefits of incorporating PrintWithMe printers are massive.
Embrace the future of multifamily amenities with PrintWithMe. Elevate your property, delight your residents, and join the ranks of innovative property owners who understand the value of convenience, community, and sustainability.
Click here to find out how PrintWithMe can transform your property!
At WithMe, one of our core values is customer obsession. We routinely survey our clients to gather candid feedback about their experience with our amenity solutions and gain perspective on the multifamily industry at large.
Our latest survey, which was completed by multifamily professionals representing hundreds of properties across the United States, revealed interesting insight into amenity utilization.
We asked participants to rank the average utilization of several popular amenities at their properties.
The final results may surprise you.
These are the five amenities participants said their residents utilize most frequently:
Our internal usage data corroborates those rankings. In communities with access to PrintWithMe, our resident printer amenity solution, the average unit utilization rate is a staggering 82%.
The average unit utilization rate of SipWithMe, our resident coffee amenity solution, is 51.7%. Studies have shown that roughly 66% of the U.S. population drinks coffee every day. So, of the eligible coffee-drinking resident population, SipWithMe is utilized by 76%.
Especially if you are budgeting for new amenities or improvements to existing ones, it’s important to know which amenities residents are actually using. Check out our survey results report for the full ranked list.
There’s something invigorating about having a fitness center just a few steps away from your doorstep. The convenience factor is a massive draw, especially for those balancing busy schedules. A quick morning workout or an evening session to de-stress becomes infinitely easier. Plus, the savings on gym memberships and travel time are nothing to scoff at.
These apartment amenities support physical health while fostering a sense of community among residents who regularly use the facility.
With the integration of smart home technology, your fitness center can even bring personalized workout suggestions and progress tracking, further enhancing the user experience.
If you're not an avid coffee drinker, you might not get it. But PLENTY of people love coffee, so the convenience of having access to it right in your home is something that makes a big difference.
There's a reason why people craft their own coffee stations and why many TikTok and YouTube lifestyle videos start with a cup of coffee.
At this point, it's a lifestyle at this point, so you don't want to miss out on adding a coffee bar or station to your property.
An added benefit?
People love to chat it up and have a great time with the community around them, and a coffee station is just one area where you can encourage that. Students love coffee, too! With many studying late into the night and early morning, having access to a coffee bar at their apartment complex can be a major convenience for them. It can also be a great selling point for student housing properties looking to attract new residents.
Green spaces, rooftop gardens, or even simple BBQ areas significantly enhance the quality of life in multifamily housing. They offer a slice of nature and a breath of fresh air amidst urban settings, making them invaluable community amenities. These outdoor spaces are communal hubs where all your residents can connect and unwind. Whether it’s hosting a weekend grill party or enjoying a quiet read under the sun, the allure of well-maintained outdoor amenities is something you don't want to neglect. Incorporating elements of smart home technology into these areas, such as automated lighting and weather-responsive features, only heightens their appeal.
The need for physical documents hasn’t vanished. Having access to a printer within a multifamily property eases the stress of last-minute printing needs. This amenity is appreciated by students and professionals alike, highlighting the multifaceted roles apartment amenities play in catering to residents' diverse needs. It's a nod to your residents by showing that you understand the convenience of having a printer.
Online shopping has become a staple of modern living, bringing about the need for secure package handling solutions. Enter package lockers — an amenity that addresses this need perfectly. Package lockers provide a safe and convenient way for your residents to receive their deliveries at any hour, without the worry of theft or misplacement. It brings a layer of convenience and peace of mind to the online shopping experience.
WithMe simplifies the integration of a coffee station or printer amenity, covering the ins and outs so you can focus on providing your residents with exceptional service. Clearly, people value the ability to grab a gourmet coffee on their way out the door or print a document without leaving the building. So why not invest in both? Through streamlined management and maintenance, WithMe keeps your amenities operating at their best, further solidifying the appeal of apartment amenities in the eyes of current and prospective residents.
Back in 2020, Lincoln Property Company partnered with PrintWithMe to offer all-inclusive printing services to their residents nationwide. Since then, nearly 34,000 multifamily apartment homes have enjoyed the benefits of their national partnership.
"When looking for a printing partner, Lincoln was searching for an elevated amenity for our residents while also providing cost and time savings for our teams. PrintWithMe checked all of the boxes, providing support seven days a week, auto-shipping supplies, as well as making our residents' privacy a top concern. It has provided convenience for our residents while taking our teams out of the printing business.”
- Theresa Kaiser-White, Vice President-Asset Management and Procurement at Lincoln Property Company
It’s no surprise that Lincoln Property Managers are choosing PrintWithMe and SipWithMe for their amenity solutions. We’re both dedicated to creating elevated experiences, leveraging tech to make our lives easier, and blending comfort with convenience. With more and more Lincoln properties signing on for WithMe amenities, we wanted to take a moment to acknowledge what we’ve accomplished together so far…
Together, we’ve printed over 2 MILLION pages. That’s nearly 1,000 pages a day!
We helped over 44,000 residents print over 345,000 print jobs. That means we’re helping nearly 20 different residents a day across all Lincoln properties with just printing alone.
Here’s what some of the Regional Property Managers are saying about PrintWithMe:
With an average resident utilization rate of 89%, residents are loving their PrintWithMe. This is what they’re saying:
Learn more about PrintWithMe for Lincoln here.
SipWithMe is our newest resident amenity to hit the market. And together, we’ve already served more than 105,000 cups of coffee (tea, hot chocolate, or another one of the 20+ drink options). That’s almost 200 cups a day! We’ve helped over 600 residents power up every morning.
Representatives from Lincoln rated SipWithMe 10 out 10, citing “ease of use,” “locally roasted coffee,” and “residents’ satisfaction” as the main drivers for their rating. You can see what residents are saying first hand here:
Learn more about SipWithMe here.
Can you believe how much we’ve accomplished together? Keep up the great work! You’re making residents happier, controlling costs for the business, and making life easier for everyone. 🎉
Ranked No. 1492, the multifamily amenities technology company has continued to grow exponentially while maintaining high levels of service and quality.
CHICAGO (August 16, 2023)- WithMe, Inc., the leading supplier of tech-enabled amenities for the multifamily industry, announced today that it has ranked No. 1492 on the 2023 Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in America.
WithMe’s appearance on the annual list is a rare third showing. The company ranked No. 1371 in 2022 and No. 659 in 2021.
The prestigious Inc. 5000 provides a data-driven look at the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent, entrepreneurial businesses.
“Running a business has only gotten harder since the end of the pandemic,” says Inc. editor-in-chief Scott Omelianuk. “To make the Inc. 5000—with the fast growth that requires—is truly an accomplishment. Inc. is thrilled to honor the companies that are building our future.”
The Inc. 5000 class of 2023 represents companies that have driven rapid revenue growth while navigating inflationary pressure, the rising costs of capital and seemingly intractable hiring challenges. Among this year’s top 500 companies, the average median three-year revenue growth rate ticked up to an astonishing 2,238 percent. In all, this year’s Inc. 5000 companies have added 1,187,266 jobs to the economy over the past three years.
“WithMe is honored to be recognized as one of the fastest-growing companies in the United States for the third year in a row,” says Jonathan Treble, WithMe’s founder and CEO. “We now proudly serve over 1 million apartment homes, and our amenity solutions can be found in more than 3,500 locations nationwide. So much of our continued exponential growth is driven by client referrals, which speaks to the exceptional work our team is doing in living out our core values of customer obsession and performance.”
For complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, location and other criteria, visit www.inc.com/inc5000.
About WithMe, Inc.
WithMe, Inc. makes people's lives better every day through convenient, technology-powered amenities for the multifamily industry and beyond. WithMe’s PrintWithMe and SipWithMe solutions make resident printing and coffee simple, helping property management leaders deliver an elevated living experience and meet evolving resident needs for remote/hybrid work spaces, while simultaneously decreasing spend, controlling costs and saving time for staff. PrintWithMe powers printer amenities and staff solutions at thousands of multifamily, cafe and coworking locations across the United States. SipWithMe, which is available in major markets, is disrupting the coffee amenity category. Learn more at www.withme.com.
Inc. 5000 Methodology
Companies on the 2023 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2019 to 2022. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2019. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit and independent—not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies—as of December 31, 2022. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2019 is $100,000; the minimum for 2022 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Growth rates used to determine company rankings were calculated to four decimal places.
About Inc.
Inc. Business Media is the leading multimedia brand for entrepreneurs. Through its journalism, Inc. aims to inform, educate and elevate the profile of our community: the risk-takers, the innovators and the ultra-driven go-getters who are creating our future. Inc.’s award-winning work reaches more than 50 million people across a variety of channels, including events, print, digital, video, podcasts, newsletters and social media. Its proprietary Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to rank the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The recognition that comes with inclusion on this and other prestigious Inc. lists, such as Female Founders and Power Partners, gives the founders of top businesses the opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. For more information, visit www.inc.com.
Coffee.
It’s literally the hottest multifamily amenity trend in Chicago.
And there’s one solution that’s been generating a buzz.
In 2021, the general managers of six luxury high rise buildings in Chicago all made the decision to switch from their existing coffee amenity suppliers to SipWithMe.
Each property was already partnered with WithMe, Inc. to provide resident printer amenities through PrintWithMe. This made implementing coffee services seamless and hassle-free.
Over the course of 8 months, 1,950 residents enjoyed 22,520+ roast-to-order beverages. And the properties reduced their coffee expenses by 49%.
But that’s just the beginning of the story. Download our full case study to find out how they also elevated their resident experience and saved their staff time and hassle.
Managing new construction in multifamily is an undertaking that comes with a unique set of opportunities and challenges.
With hundreds of critical decisions to be made, the value in onboarding and even using certain amenities during construction can be easily overlooked.
While it may seem daunting to try to select multiple supplier partners early on in a build, the benefits can certainly outweigh the costs.
Let’s take a look at a few of them:
One of the top amenity trends in new construction is dedicated coworking space.
And for good reason.
Upwork estimates that by 2025, an estimated 32.6 million Americans will be working remotely, equivalent to roughly 22% of the workforce.
Your future residents are going to need spaces where they can comfortably work.
If you need inspiration, check out this free e-book with advice from seasoned execs and a handy checklist to help you ensure you’ve got all of the essentials covered.
One essential takeaway from the e-book is that thoughtful FF&E and design aesthetics are critical in creating great coworking spaces, but technology is non-negotiable.
Where is your money best spent? Here are four smart tech investments:
WithMe falls into that category, offering elevated printing and coffee amenities with perks for residents and on-site teams.
PrintWithMe’s all-inclusive packages make budgeting easy, while outsourced technical support and auto-shipped supplies reduce the burden on property management teams. Residents love having 24/7 access to reliable printing and live support if they ever run into issues.
SipWithMe also boasts budget-friendly, all-inclusive pricing and outsourced technical support. Residents love being able to order 20+ roast-to-order beverages in the comfort of their own building.
You’re going to need a printer and a coffee machine.
Why not maximize your ROI, ensure a seamless rollout and alleviate the stress of lease-up by onboarding WithMe amenities during construction?
Plus, you can advertise that your building will offer free coffee and free printing! And what prospective resident wouldn’t love that?
When you’re ready to make life better during construction and well beyond, click here to schedule a conversation with us!
A deep dive into why tech-enabled amenities are an absolute necessity - and which three areas you need to focus on.
In the fast-paced world of multifamily living, a paradigm shift is underway. According to Lincoln Property Company’s Multifamily Outlook 2023, “renter lifespan” is on the rise. But so is the level of scrutiny from prospective renters. Renters are dedicating 18% more time and taking nearly 40 steps to meticulously research multifamily homes before they even pick up the phone.
Meanwhile, apartment operating expenses continue to linger at more than 2x their pre-COVID norms. Approximately 20% of this increase in expenses can be attributed to turnover rates – despite historical lows.
So, how do property managers overcome the challenging task of cutting costs while simultaneously captivating and retaining discerning residents?
Technology-enabled amenities are taking center stage in response to these growing trends. And it’s no secret that residents now prioritize smart amenities over traditional offerings, like pools and covered parking lots. In fact, 75% of residents are willing to pay more rent, as much as an additional 15%, for smart homes.
Not only do residents want smart amenities, but so do staff members. They empower on-site teams to automate or even eliminate routine tasks. Thus, tech-enabled amenities have become invaluable allies in cutting costs and delivering impeccable services. But the question remains - which amenities move the needle and spark meaningful change in multifamily living?
Smart amenities are a widely discussed topic in the multifamily industry. You’ve probably seen a few headlines or heard chatter about them at networking events, but do you really know what it all means?
The official definition of a smart home, according to Coldwell Banker:
“A home that is equipped with network-connected products (aka “smart products,” connected via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or similar protocols) for controlling, automating and optimizing functions such as temperature, lighting, security, safety or entertainment, either remotely by a phone, tablet, computer or a separate system within the home itself.”
Applying the same concept to a larger scale, smart apartment buildings are housing complexes that seamlessly integrate tech-enabled amenities, building automation systems, and property management into a cloud-based software system. This integration allows these components to communicate with one another and be controlled remotely via the Internet, resulting in a cohesive and efficient living environment for residents.
The three primary components of a smart apartment building are connectivity, community management, and tech-enabled amenities.
Now that we know what goes into a smart apartment building, let's delve into some examples of tech-enabled amenities that are reshaping the multifamily living landscape:
By embracing these tech-enabled amenities, multifamily properties can position themselves at the forefront of modern living, catering to residents' evolving needs and preferences while streamlining property management operations.
There are other technological upgrades, like chatbots to ease the leasing and renting process or even the maintenance process, smart guest access, and more. In fact, chatbots and smart guest access are two very impactful and important additions that also represent the direction that the multifamily properties are going in. Let’s take a deeper dive into both of these amenities below.
AI is leading the way in many fields, and it is slowly expanding into multifamily property ownership. AI-driven assistants are revolutionizing the way multifamily property owners interact with residents, providing an always-available point of contact. For residents, this means being able to report maintenance issues or inquire about lease details at any time of the day, without waiting for office hours. The chatbots instantly acknowledge these requests and can initiate a process to resolve them, all by following your voice commands.
For property owners, the benefits are immense. Automation of routine inquiries and maintenance requests through chatbots reduces the workload on human staff, allowing them to focus on more complex and value-added activities. Property owners can focus on things that matter the most, allowing for an efficient allocation of resources while knowing that their residents' needs are still being heard and cared for. It's the perfect blend that leads to a more satisfied and loyal community.
Safety and security are important for any community, and smart guest access systems are at the forefront of addressing these concerns in the digital age. This technology offers a sophisticated solution to the age-old challenge of managing who enters a property, meaning only approved visitors can gain access. Residents can remotely manage guest permissions, granting temporary access codes or digital keys via their smartphones. This eliminates the need for physical key exchanges and reduces the risk of unauthorized entry, as access rights can be easily revoked or adjusted at any time.
For visitors, smart guest access simplifies the process of entering a building or apartment, providing a simple and easy experience. A tool like a video intercom system can provide clear voice and video access, so someone can let you into the property. Connected to the doorway, this unique safety feature can help prevent stolen packages and keep residents safe at night. Property owners also benefit from a robust audit trail of entries and exits. Smart video intercoms are a major upgrade in terms of convenience, security, and efficiency for all parties involved.
Residents crave more than just a place to call home—they desire an elevated living experience enriched with modern amenities. Just as a smartphone has become an indispensable tool in our daily lives, smart amenities are transforming the multifamily living experience by making it easier and more convenient. Moreover, with nearly 50% of residents spending 30% or more of their income on rent and utilities, they’re looking for ways to get more out of it.
The appeal of tech-enabled amenities to both residents and property management staff is multifaceted:
With roughly 85% of Americans owning a smartphone, smart amenities present an easy and effective way to delight residents. The integration of smart amenities is a natural progression in meeting residents' preferences and enhancing their living experience.
Not only do residents want modern amenities, but they report wanting ones focused on security and convenience. By offering sought-after features, multifamily communities can elevate their appeal and cater to the preferences of their tech-savvy residents.
One example would be a multifamily property coffee amenity, which serves as more than just a convenient spot to grab a morning espresso; it embodies a hub of daily simplicity and community building that significantly enriches the living experience. This small addition can transform the start of each day, eliminating the need to venture off-property in search of a caffeine fix, saving time and adding convenience to busy mornings.
Beyond the practical benefits, a communal coffee space fosters a sense of belonging and interaction among residents, encouraging spontaneous conversations and connections that might not occur otherwise. In today's fast-paced world, the value of community cannot be overstated, and spaces that facilitate genuine interactions greatly contribute to the overall resident satisfaction. This sense of belonging and ease of daily routines are key factors that can influence residents to extend their leases, making the coffee amenity a strategic investment for property owners aiming to boost retention rates.
The demand for tech-enabled amenities is a reflection of the changing needs and expectations of modern residents. As they seek a seamless, secure, and connected living experience, property managers have a unique opportunity to leverage smart technologies and delight residents with a living environment that is truly ahead of its time.
The integration of smart amenities in apartment buildings goes beyond enhancing residents' living experiences—it also brings substantial benefits to property managers and owners. One of the most significant advantages lies in the automation of various tasks, which streamlines operating efficiency and results in notable time and cost savings. In some cases, multifamily housing managers have reported saving over 7 hours of labor per week due to the implementation of smart amenities.
Smart amenities come with sensors that detect and report issues -- sparing property managers from the burden of manual checks. Whether it's a simple notification when a package has arrived or an urgent alert about a leak in a bathroom on the eighth floor, these smart sensors provide invaluable real-time information, enabling swift action and proactive maintenance.
Energy management is another area where smart amenities excel. Property managers can achieve significant energy savings by setting schedules for building lights, thermostats, and other smart features. Plus, staff members won't have to traverse the entire property to make changes. Smart thermostats and lights can also contribute to reducing utility costs for vacant apartments by an impressive 18% or more. Such savings can translate to tens of thousands of dollars per year, impacting a property's bottom line.
Furthermore, resident retention is a vital factor in increasing net operating income (NOI). The implementation of modern, tech-enabled amenities has proven to be a game-changer. Apartments that have embraced smart amenities have reported a remarkable 59% increase in renewal rates. This impressive statistic underscores the profound impact of smart amenities in creating a captivating and satisfactory living environment, encouraging residents to stay and prolong their lease terms.
As property managers and owners strive to optimize operational efficiency and enhance the overall financial performance of their properties, the integration of tech-enabled amenities proves to be a strategic and innovative approach. The seamless automation, real-time monitoring, and energy-saving capabilities of smart amenities not only elevate the living experience for residents but also pave the way for sustainable growth and increased profitability.
It's a common misconception that the latest advancements in tech-enabled multifamily amenities primarily benefit a younger audience. However, mature renters and property owners stand to significantly benefit from the integration of smart amenities and tech tools, debunking the myth that these innovations are exclusive to the younger generation.
Smart home technologies, for instance, offer convenience and safety features that are universally appealing but particularly advantageous for older residents. Automated lighting systems can help prevent falls by ensuring that pathways are always well-lit. At the same time, smart thermostats make it easier to control the environment without the need to physically adjust settings, which is ideal for the comfort and ease of use for individuals with mobility issues. Voice-activated devices can assist those with visual impairments, allowing them to control various aspects of their home through simple voice commands.
For mature property owners, smart technology offers a streamlined approach to property management that transcends traditional barriers. Remote monitoring systems can provide real-time updates on property conditions, alerting owners to potential maintenance issues before they escalate into costly repairs. This level of oversight can significantly reduce the time and effort required to manage properties, making it an attractive option for older owners who may be looking for ways to minimize physical involvement and extend their property ownership.
You might be wondering, “How can property managers strategically select and implement the right tech amenities?” By understanding the specific needs of their residents and aligning them with the advantages offered by smart amenities, property managers can differentiate their properties in the competitive multifamily market.
As the multifamily industry continues to evolve, the demand for tech-enabled amenities is at an all-time high. According to the National Apartment Association (NAA), 54% of owners and operators reported plans to ramp up smart-home initiatives back in 2020. Now, four years into this trend, it's essential for property managers to evaluate their progress in truly moving the needle.
The reality is that simply adding smart gadgets arbitrarily won't lead to a significant impact on your net operating income (NOI). However, if you keep your residents and staff in mind, you can strategically implement the right smart technology.
To optimize the advantages offered by tech-enabled amenities, focus on the following areas:
To get the most out of your amenities, consider your property's specific expenses. Look for low-hanging fruit that can yield the biggest returns. For instance, if electricity and labor costs are a concern, consider implementing smart lights and thermostats throughout the building. If residents are interrupting staff on a daily basis over community amenities that are out of order, then consider tech-enabled devices, like PrintWithMe, that calculate when supplies are running low or out of stock, automatically order more, and offer easily accessible live support for residents.
As technology continues to evolve, it's crucial to consider data privacy laws and the vulnerabilities associated with smart tech. Data breaches and privacy violations can have severe consequences, leading to financial losses and reputational damage for property management companies. Property managers and owners should be proactive in implementing robust data protection measures.
One key consideration is the type of data collected by amenities and how it is stored and utilized. Property managers should seek transparency from amenity providers regarding data collection practices, ensuring that residents' information is handled with the utmost care and only used for its intended purpose. Additionally, data encryption and secure storage protocols must be in place to safeguard against unauthorized access.
High-tech amenities can have a profound impact on resident retention. Although not all smart amenities directly drive resident retention, they contribute to creating a superior living experience, fostering resident satisfaction and increasing the likelihood of lease renewals. Consider your resident demographics and common areas used, like coworking spaces.
Although younger residents often have higher expectations for smart amenities, a surprising study found that 65% of residents in their 60s and 70s are also willing to pay more for modern amenities. This highlights the universal appeal of smart amenities, making it essential for property managers to cater to a diverse range of preferences.
To discern which technology-enabled amenities will have the most significant impact on your residents, try surveying them. You can get insights on which amenities are most likely to influence lease renewals by sending out a free Google Form. Provide residents with a curated list of potential amenities and ask residents to rate them.
The multifamily industry is witnessing a transformative shift as residents increasingly seek the convenience and security offered by smart amenities. As they spend a lot of income on rent and utilities, residents want to get the most value out of their living experience. Smart amenities present a gateway to a more connected, efficient, and elevated living experience.
Tech-enabled amenities encompass an array of features designed to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of residents. From keypad entry systems to encrypted wireless printers, these amenities remove mundane tasks, bolster productivity, promote sustainability, and empower residents to take more control over their homes. Moreover, the integration of smart amenities is instrumental in driving down vacancy rates, fostering resident retention, and ultimately boosting net operating income (NOI).
Smart amenities represent more than just a trend—they are the gateway to a modern, connected living experience that delights residents while optimizing operational efficiency. By embracing the transformative power of smart amenities, property managers can forge a path to long-term success, offering a living environment that is truly ahead of its time. By keeping residents and staff at the heart of decision-making, property managers can differentiate their properties and cultivate an identity committed to excellence in the competitive multifamily market.