What Do Tenants Look for in a Rental Property?

The state of rentals has undergone a radical change in recent years. As an observer of this market, we have found a direct correlation between rising rent prices in recent years and increased expectations among renters. Any landlord thinking of entering the OKC rental property management scene by simply hanging a "For Rent" sign in the front window and hoping for the best is sorely mistaken. 

Today’s renter is a savvy, educated consumer with a very specific idea in mind of where their money will go in exchange for a place to live. Our message from First Class Property Solutions to landlords remains a constant one: this is the most important tool in your kit for keeping a space rent-ready and a good tenant in place for an efficient length of time.

The Amenities That Seal the Deal

When viewing a unit, what do renters look for? Convenience is invariably at the front of their minds. While in our experience nothing beats a washer/dryer in-unit, for many renters, the idea of carrying a basket of clothes to a laundry facility, be it a laundromat or a theoretical communal basement washer, is a relic of the past. Having a washer and dryer in a unit is an automatic top of the list qualifier. 

Other than this, improved appliances are a key differentiator. Residing in a shiny new stainless steel fridge and upscale dishwasher tells a prospect everything they need to know: this facility takes care of business, takes pride in their product, and will therefore take good care of them. And of course, we have to mention parking.

Location Is Still Everything

Although it is important to focus on the interior of the apartment, it is equally important to think beyond the front door. As always, we never forget that part of a property’s value is based on its access to necessary services. What do tenants look for in a rental property? Tenants want a good commute, which can include being in close proximity to public transportation stations or major thoroughfares. 

Being in a good school district can be a major attribute if families with children are potential tenants, which can make all the difference in lease decisions when two apartments are otherwise equal. Moreover, being in proximity to local attractions such as local recreation centers, coffee shops, or food shopping centers can be in high demand.

Opening Doors to Pet Owners

One way in which landlords can easily raise the number of potential applicants is by being pet friendly. A large segment of people in the rental population will have a dog or a cat, and they will struggle to find good apartments where they can bring their pets along. With pet friendly apartments, you will not only attract a higher segment of people but will also attract people who will occupy the apartment for a considerably longer time. They will dread moving because they will struggle to find a new apartment where they can bring their pets along. For landlords curious about how to find out who is renting a house, understanding the needs and backgrounds of pet owners can also help you welcome more qualified applicants.

Emphasizing Safety and Security

Lastly, a tenant will always want peace of mind. As such, it is important for realty owners to make them feel safe. One way this can be achieved is by ensuring they have safe entryways with good locks and, better yet, an intercom system. Additionally, good lighting in the parking lots, corridors, and paths leading to homes is important. A tenant will always want to be safe in their dwelling. As such, they will show the rental property respect and will not want to leave.

Meeting Tenant Expectations



To attract quality tenants, pricing is simply not enough. To really succeed, you have to offer a living experience which will satisfy a contemporary market. Through such matters as appealing amenities, accessible location, pet flexibility, and enhanced safety, you can put your investment on a winning path. What we do think is this: when you focus on what your clients want, you establish a connection which is good for all involved!