Apartment Trends Magazine February 2020 | Page 40

"Properties can never put too much eff ort into creating great communication with renters." While luxury amenities are important, residents are more deeply impacted by the value that they perceive their home off ers them. In other words, how the customer service they experience with your property is diff erent — or better — than others. 3. HOST IRRESISTIBLE EVENTS In line with the concept of added value, hosting irresistible renter events for the community substantially boosts renter experience. Not only does it show renters that you care about their living experience, but it also provides them with the opportunity to meet and form connections with both their neighbors and the property management team. Witten Advisors found that residents who have seven or more friends in their community are happier and more likely to renew their lease. Th ese community events should be planned around the preferences of your renters and off er them something they will perceive as worthwhile, specifi cally something worth changing their normal routine for. Th is can be free food from a favorite local spot, a guest speaker, seasonal drinks, a movie night, a pool-side barbecue, and so on. Above all, to elevate the resident experience, these events must be consistent and intentional. 4. BUILD GREAT COMMUNICATION Communication is one of the most important factors for improving renter experience because there are opportunities for it to occur each and every day. Further, beyond good communication, strive for proactive outreach. Properties can never put too much eff ort into creating great communication with renters. For example, aim to inquire about a renter's experience before they come to you with a problem. Also, ensure there are multiple ways for a renter to contact your property management team and respond promptly. Properties can also keep residents informed with a weekly newsletter that communicates property news, updates, events, and provides helpful information such as weather forecasts and local recommendations. For digital communication, an online chat in resident portals and messaging apps can also handle work order requests to help create a smoother experience for renters. Ultimately, the mark of a great property is one that is always trying to improve and create the best resident experience possible — and renters can see that. NATURAL DOG PARK PRODUCTS GymsForDogs.com [email protected] 800-931-1562