What to Remember When Designing Built-for-Rent Housing

Built-for-rent housing made up 6% of all new homes constructed in 2020 and the sector is only expected to grow. Design firm Housing Design Matters says the reasons someone may want to rent versus own can be widely different, from those unwilling to commit to a purchase to relocation due to COVID. Because of that, the approach to built-for-rent home design needs to be just as diverse and varied, which is why built-for-rent housing should come in all shapes and sizes. And there are big bonuses for building rentals. There’s no longer a need to wait for buyers to select finishes and builders can design a coordinated streetscape.

Another huge advantage is the ability to predetermine a harmonious streetscape with ample diversity of elevation styles, materials, textures, and colors. This critical advantage is often overlooked by overzealous builders who assume if you build it, they will come. What you don’t want to come are angry neighbors and pushback by both renters and the community.

THE IMPORTANCE OF DURABILITY
Durability plays a unique role in for-rent housing. Outside, this might include a masonry finish. Inside – forget carpet! Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring has come a long way, especially when you consider pets. LVP is great for pet accidents, water spills and claw marks.

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