Amenities aren’t just nice-to-have extras—they’re either driving revenue or draining resources. Yet, many properties invest in flashy features that look good in marketing but offer little real value to residents.
Let’s be real: A pool that’s open three months a year? A rooftop lounge that sits empty? Those don’t move the needle on retention. But the right amenities - the ones residents use every single day - can be the difference between a renewal and a vacancy.
So what’s worth the investment? Here’s what actually delivers ROI.
The High-ROI Amenities Residents Actually Use
- Self-Serve Printing & Business Services
Remote and hybrid work aren’t trends - they’re the new normal. A reliable, self-serve printing setup isn’t just convenient, it’s essential. According to an NMHC/Grace Hill 2024 National Report, 90% of remote workers say they need access to high-quality printing. If your property offers it, that’s one less reason for them to leave. - Automated Package Lockers & Delivery Management
Online shopping is life. If your residents are constantly chasing down lost packages, you’re giving them a daily frustration they don’t need. Secure, self-service parcel lockers make deliveries seamless - and prevent front desk staff from becoming package handlers. - Tech-Enabled Coworking Spaces
Forget the underused “business center.” A dedicated coworking lounge with high-speed Wi-Fi, reservable desks and soundproof booths turns dead space into a high-value amenity. With the rise of remote work, this is an easy win. - Keyless Entry & Smart Access Control
Traditional keys are ancient history. Residents expect mobile access, fob entry and smart intercoms that let them grant access from anywhere. Plus, it’s a win for security and operational efficiency. - Premium Coffee & Beverage Stations
Residents start their day with coffee - and if you provide high-quality, self-serve options, they won’t be hitting Starbucks instead. A great coffee setup turns your lobby into a daily engagement point that fosters connection and community.
The Low-ROI Amenities That Don’t Justify the Spend
- Olympic-Sized Pools
Looks impressive, but let’s be honest - it’s used three months a year, max. Unless your property is in a year-round warm climate, the ROI just isn’t there. - Elaborate Outdoor Spaces
Fire pits, pergolas and rooftop lounges sound great, but how often do they actually get used? Unless these spaces are activated with events and programming, they often turn into expensive, underutilized features. - Movie Theaters & Game Rooms
If these spaces aren’t regularly programmed with events, they become ghost towns. A better investment? Spaces that serve a daily function. - Luxury Fitness Centers
A well-equipped gym is valuable - but over-the-top, hotel-style fitness centers don’t usually justify their cost. Most residents prefer a simple, well-maintained gym with solid equipment over a massive space they barely use.
How to Invest in Amenities That Actually Retain Residents
Before spending a dime on an amenity upgrade, ask yourself these questions:
- Is this an amenity residents will use every day? If not, reconsider.
- Does it solve a daily problem? High-use amenities make residents’ lives easier, which makes them want to stay.
- Is it self-sustaining or a staffing burden? The best amenities work without adding labor costs.
- Can it be monetized? Some amenities, like self-serve printing or premium coffee, can partially pay for themselves.
The Bottom Line
If an amenity doesn’t create daily engagement, it’s probably not worth the spend. Prioritize tech-enabled, self-service solutions that make life easier for residents while keeping costs low for you.
The right amenities don’t just look good - they generate real ROI and long-term retention.
Want to see which amenities deliver the best returns?
Download our e-book, The ROI of Multifamily Amenities and Proptech, for real-world data, case studies and implementation strategies.
Get your free copy here and start making smarter amenity investments today.
