How to Connect With Gen Z Residents

 

Undoubtedly, the COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected the lives of Gen Z Americans, disrupting their education, social activities, and overall formative experiences. As this generation enters the rental market, they seek properties that can not only accommodate their digital lifestyles but also foster meaningful connections with neighbors and the community.

 

Fostering a Connection with Gen Zers 

While Gen Z is known for being constantly connected through technology, they often struggle to cultivate genuine connections based on shared values and interests. According to Connor Blakley, CEO and founder of Gen Z marketing firm Youth Logic, creating dedicated environments or niche verticals within living spaces will be the decisive factor in appealing to and winning over Gen Z renters.

 

The Mobile Lifestyle

As the first generation to grow up with easy access to the Internet and high-tech devices, Gen Z’s reliance on digital tools has only intensified during the pandemic. Ryan Kimura, senior vice president of strategic partnerships at Premier, a development and design firm, notes that connectivity has become a pressing need. Gen Z renters prefer collaborative co-working spaces that provide intimate study rooms, fostering opportunities to interact and spend time with fellow residents. Additionally, co-working spaces allow them to host friends and family in an environment that is both private and public. 

 

Immediate Connectivity

Ultimately, Wi-Fi access should be readily available to new residents from the moment they move in. Gen Z renters expect immediate access to the Internet for work, communication, and daily tasks. Rachael Lewis, managing principal/Urban Living Interiors at Ankrom Moisan, emphasizes that Gen Z’s reliance on the Internet goes beyond leisure activities. It has become an integral part of their lives, from ordering groceries, dating, or connecting with others. Thereby, knowing there is a stable and fast connection to the internet is key for gen zers. 

 

Viewing Home as a Multi-Purpose Space

For Gen Z, the concept of home extends beyond a mere place to sleep. Many of them view their home environment holistically, considering it a workspace as well. Understanding this perspective is crucial for designing multifamily units that cater to their unique needs. For example, having a gym available on site is a huge plus on top of having a pet-friendly space for their pets. Aside from just being able to have a place to sleep, gen zers would much rather take advantage of a multi-purpose space. 

 

Privacy and Storage Solutions

As they embark on their professional careers, members of Gen Z are more likely to move frequently and share apartments with roommates. Privacy and ample storage space are highly valued by this generation. Melissa Joerg, project manager at MBH Architects, highlights the increasing popularity of smart storage solutions in individual units, such as built-in pantries. Multiple closet spaces and closets with a large volume of storage space are a huge plus. As a mother to promote storage features, demonstrate key items that can give viewers a perspective on how many items can be stored. Remember, both videos and photos are a great way to demonstrate this to a younger generation. 

 

Amenities for All Generations

While it’s essential to address the specific needs of Gen Z renters, there are also amenities that appeal to residents of all ages. En suite bathrooms, large closets, and functional building amenities like larger package rooms and fitness areas continue to be highly sought-after features that transcend generational boundaries. Thus, capitalize on the important features that make your community stand out from the rest. Ultimately, make sure you are adequately promoting key features your community has to offer across multiple platforms. 

 

Connecting w/ Gen Zers

To attract and retain Gen Z renters, multifamily properties must adapt to their preferences and desires. Creating environments that foster community connections, providing immediate connectivity, and offering privacy and smart storage solutions are key considerations in designing multifamily properties that cater to this dynamic and digitally-savvy generation. By meeting their unique needs, multifamily properties can position themselves as winners in the competitive rental market.

 

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