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Transwestern data points to demand for larger rental units among baby boomers

Multifamily Housing

Transwestern data points to demand for larger rental units among baby boomers

Developers are also building a higher percentage of three-bedroom units, according to Transwestern.


By Transwestern | February 28, 2018
Transwestern data points to demand for larger rental units among baby boomers

Photo: Pexels

As baby boomers seek to downsize from large homes, developers are increasingly designing apartments specifically for this demographic.

These apartments consist of features such as:
• Larger floor plans, both in terms of square footage and number of bedrooms
• More traditional layouts that reflect the homes baby boomers are familiar with
• Increased storage spaces both in the apartment units and additional rental spaces in the community
• Upscale finishes in kitchens and bathrooms, sometimes including special touches like wine chillers
• Luxury community amenities such as pet services, concierge, conference facilities, yoga classes, and dry cleaning in a quiet atmosphere

This trend is spreading nationally. According to recent Transwestern data, as of Q3, the average U.S. one-bedroom apartment is 874 sf, two-bedrooms are 903 sf, and three-bedrooms ring in at 976 sf.

However, newly constructed communities in the last 12 months average 935 sf for a one-bedroom, 945 sf for a two-bedroom, and 996 sf for a three-bedroom.

To meet demand for the larger rentals, developers are building a higher percentage of three-bedroom units. For example, Houston has seen an uptick in demand for three-bedroom apartments:
• Occupancy numbers are highest for three-bedroom units, at approximately 94%
• Rent growth for three-bedroom units is highest among all unit types at +.03%

More Transwestern multifamily research at: https://www.transwestern.com/corporate/research

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