Tips for Choosing Apartments with the Best Amenities

When you’re searching for a new apartment, the right amenities can make your everyday life easier, more comfortable, and even more fun. From on-site gyms to pet-friendly perks, the extras a building offers can really impact how much you enjoy living there. But how do you know which amenities are worth it? Let’s walk through how to choose apartments with the best amenities for your lifestyle and your budget.

Know What You Need vs. What’s Nice to Have

Start by making two lists:

• Must-haves: These are things you can’t live without. For example, if you don’t own a car, a place near public transport may be a must.

• Nice-to-haves: These are perks that would make life better, but you could live without them—like a rooftop lounge or yoga studio.

This helps you prioritize so you don’t pay extra for things you won’t use.

Think About Your Lifestyle

Choose amenities that match how you live day-to-day. For example:

• Love to work out? Look for a fitness center or walking trails.

• Work remotely? A coworking space or business center might be useful.

• Have a dog? Check for pet-friendly policies, dog parks, or grooming stations.

• Like socializing? Community lounges or game rooms can help you meet neighbors.

Not all fancy features add value to your life—so focus on the ones you’ll actually use.

Consider Parking and Transportation

Parking can be a big deal depending on where you live.

• In cities, secure or assigned parking is a huge bonus.

• If you bike or take public transport, check for bike storage or nearby bus/train lines.

• Ask if parking is included or if there’s an extra fee.

Don’t assume—it’s always better to ask upfront.

Check the Pet Policy and Pet Amenities

If you have a pet (or plan to get one), make sure the apartment is truly pet-friendly.

• Ask about pet fees, breed restrictions, and pet limits.

• Look for features like dog parks, waste stations, or pet washing stations.

• Some apartments even host pet events or have pet-sitting services.

Laundry Access Is a Must

Ask if the apartment has:

• In-unit laundry (the most convenient option),

• Shared laundry rooms, or

• No laundry at all (which could mean going to a laundromat).

If laundry isn’t in the unit, check how many machines there are and when they’re available.

Tour Shared Spaces in Person

If possible, see the amenities in person. Photos online might look great, but they don’t always show the full picture.

• Is the gym well-maintained?

• Is the pool clean?

• Are the lounge areas actually being used?

This helps you see if the community feels active, safe, and welcoming.

Watch for Amenity Fees

Some apartments charge extra for premium features. These might include:

• Covered parking

• Reserved fitness classes

• Upgraded appliance packages

• Rooftop access or private patios

Ask which amenities are included in rent and which come at an added cost. This helps you avoid surprises later.

Look for Everyday Convenience

Sometimes small things make a big difference, like:

• Package lockers for deliveries

• On-site maintenance that responds quickly

• Trash pickup or recycling programs

• Elevators in multi-story buildings

Convenience features save you time and effort every day.

Final Checklist

Before signing a lease, review this checklist:

 Do the amenities match your needs and lifestyle?
Are the features well-maintained and actually usable?
Are there extra fees you weren’t expecting?
Is the apartment close to work, school, or transportation?
Will you use the amenities enough to make the cost worth it?

Final Thoughts

The best apartment amenities aren’t always the flashiest—they’re the ones that make your life easier, more fun, and more comfortable. Take time to compare options, ask questions, and choose the features that truly matter to you. A little planning now can lead to a much better living experience later.