The Rental Property Amenity Wars: What Features Are Making Units Rent Faster

In Ontario's increasingly competitive rental market, standing out isn't just about location or square footage anymore. The battle for tenants is being fought on a new front: amenities. From smart home technology to pet-friendly perks, renters are demanding more, and landlords who meet these expectations are leasing units faster. At Regalway Homes, we keep a close eye on these trends to help investors maximize their rental returns. So, what amenities are winning the war for tenants in 2025? Let's look at the features that are turning "for rent" signs into signed leases fast.  

The Smart Home Advantage

Smart home technology isn't a luxury anymore. It's an expectation. Tenants, especially millennials and Gen Z renters, are actively seeking units equipped with features that make their lives easier and safer. Think smart locks, video doorbells, and thermostats that adjust automatically. Not only do these features provide convenience, but they also offer landlords operational benefits, like remote property management and energy efficiency.  

High-speed Internet is another major deal-breaker. With the rise of remote work and streaming-heavy lifestyles, sluggish Wi-Fi is a no-go. Some landlords in Ontario are even including high-speed internet in the rent, giving them an edge over competitors who leave tenants scrambling to find their own provider.  

Pet-Friendly Perks

Ontario landlords have traditionally been wary of renting to pet owners, but that mindset is shifting fast. With more people working from home, pet adoption rates have skyrocketed, and tenants are prioritizing pet-friendly rentals. Properties that welcome pets and even cater to them are leasing faster and often at premium rates.  

Get your guide on pets in your rental property here!

Features like fenced-in yards, pet washing stations, and nearby green spaces are becoming sought-after amenities. Some landlords are going the extra mile by installing built-in pet doors or designating pet-friendly floors in multi-unit buildings. The key takeaway? Embracing pets isn't just a nice gesture; it's often a serious competitive advantage in today's rental market.  

The Small Upgrades That Make a Big Difference

Sometimes, it's the little things that make a tenant say "yes" on the spot. Stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and in-unit laundry are now baseline expectations in many Ontario rental markets. If your unit doesn't offer these, it might be time for a refresh.  

Beyond the basics, investors who go the extra mile are seeing big payoffs. Heated bathroom floors, upgraded backsplashes, and energy-efficient lighting add an upscale feel without breaking the bank. Even swapping out standard doorknobs for modern hardware can make a rental feel more high-end. Tenants want a space that feels polished and well-maintained; showing that you've invested in the property makes them more willing to invest in renting it.  

Outdoor & Wellness Spaces

The pandemic changed how people view their living spaces, and one lasting impact is the demand for outdoor and wellness-focused amenities. Balconies, rooftop patios, and communal gardens are high on renters' wish lists, especially in urban areas where green space is limited.  

Fitness amenities are another major draw. While full-scale gyms aren't always feasible for smaller rental properties, offering something as simple as a dedicated yoga space or an outdoor workout area can set a property apart. Even providing storage for bikes and sports equipment can be a major plus for active renters.  

Parking & EV Charging

Parking has always been a hot commodity, but as Ontario sees a surge in electric vehicle (EV) ownership, EV charging stations are becoming a must-have. Savvy landlords are installing charging stations to future-proof their properties and attract eco-conscious tenants.  

Even for tenants without an EV, the presence of a charging station signals that a landlord is forward-thinking and investing in long-term sustainability, which is an increasingly attractive quality for renters. If your property has the space and infrastructure to add an EV charger, it's an investment worth considering.  

Co-Living & Flexible Lease Options

The traditional 12-month lease isn't the only game in town anymore. With more people embracing remote work, travel, and flexible lifestyles, landlords who offer month-to-month leases or furnished short-term rentals are seeing faster occupancy rates.  

Co-living spaces, where tenants rent private rooms but share common areas, are also gaining traction, particularly in high-demand areas. These setups appeal to young professionals and digital nomads who want affordability without sacrificing community. If you own a multi-bedroom unit, exploring a co-living model could be a way to maximize rental income while ensuring minimal vacancy.  

Give Renters What They Actually Want

The Ontario rental market is evolving, and investors who adapt will win the amenity wars. By incorporating smart technology, pet-friendly policies, stylish upgrades, outdoor spaces, and future-proof features like EV charging, landlords can dramatically improve their leasing speed and rental returns.  

At Regalway Homes, we specialize in helping real estate investors optimize their properties for today's renters. If you want to make sure your rental units are standing out in this competitive market, schedule a free consultation with us today. The right amenities can make al