House Renters Prioritize Pets, Privacy, Practicality

Many renters choose single-family houses over apartments for the increased space and privacy, but there are a number of other things that they prioritize, according to a survey by Point2 – namely, their furry friends. 

Over 1,500 people interested in house renting completed the survey, which found that the biggest reason for renting a house was for more privacy (27.7%). Other reasons included: 

• For more space (25.2%) 
• To have a yard or garden (15.7%) 
• For better pet accommodations (13.2%) 
• To accommodate a growing family (11.7%)  

Surpassing the need for more space for a growing family, pet accommodations are rising on the list of renter priorities. Of the survey respondents, 68.5% said they were renting with pets, and 7.8% said they were considering adding pets to their household. For 23.2%, the pet policy is the most likely to influence their decision to rent a house.  

Aside from their pets, what else are house renters prioritizing? Their wish lists include: 

1. Upgraded kitchen (20.9%) 
2. Additional storage space (14.9%) 
3. Improved energy efficiency (14.5%)  
4. Additional living space (14.4%) 
5. Larger yard (11.1%) 

For those dreaming bigger, the most desirable unconventional features included: 

1. Sunroom/roof deck (30.8%) 
2. Workshop/craft room (15.9%) 
3. Gardening area (15.1%) 
4. Home gym/yoga studio (14.2%) 
5. In-home theater room (9.4%) 

Notably, house renters also said they preferred decorating over renovating, with 41% stating they weren’t too bothered about not being able to renovate or modify their single-family rental. The majority (78%) said they preferred to personalize by decorating with their own personal items. 

Additionally, practicality topped comfort, with renters favoring essentials like heating and air conditioning (68.0%), kitchen appliances (52.6%), in-unit washers and dryers (39.0%) and ample outdoor space (23.9%). Forty-five percent also said included utilities could justify an increase in rent.