top of page
Search

The Psychology of Renters: What Really Attracts Tenants in Los Angeles

  • Writer: Strategic Growth
    Strategic Growth
  • Oct 2
  • 3 min read

In a competitive rental market like Los Angeles, it’s not always about square footage or even price. Tenants today are making decisions based on psychology how a place makes them feel, the lifestyle it represents, and whether it aligns with their values.

At Strategic Growth Real Estate, we’ve seen this firsthand: properties that understand renter psychology rent faster, stay occupied longer, and often generate higher returns. So what exactly makes tenants say “yes” to a rental in L.A.? Let’s break it down.


Beyond the Basics: What Tenants Really Want


1. A Sense of Lifestyle

Renters aren’t just paying for walls and a roof they’re buying into a lifestyle. They imagine their daily routines: where they’ll grab coffee, walk their dog, or meet friends.

  • Neighborhood vibe and walkability are top priorities.

  • Tenants want properties that connect them to culture, food, fitness, and community.

Landlord insight: Marketing isn’t just about square footage highlight lifestyle perks like walkability scores, nearby parks, or popular local spots.


2. Safety and Peace of Mind

Feeling safe is a basic human need, and it strongly shapes rental choices. A unit in a secure, well-lit area with good building security often trumps size or style.

  • Secure entry, smart locks, and gated parking increase perceived safety.

  • Noise control and well-maintained surroundings also boost confidence.

Landlord insight: Even small upgrades like better lighting, cameras, or improved locks can make a big difference in attracting tenants.


3. Community and Belonging

Especially post-pandemic, tenants are craving connection. They want neighborhoods and even buildings where they feel part of something bigger.

  • Shared spaces like patios, lounges, or rooftop decks help.

  • Local events, art walks, or farmer’s markets make a neighborhood attractive.


4. Modern Conveniences

Psychologically, tenants equate modern conveniences with “care” and “value.” Updated appliances, in-unit laundry, strong Wi-Fi, and energy efficiency reduce stress and increase satisfaction.

  • Studies show tenants will pay 10–15% more for modernized units with key amenities (NMHC).

  • Eco-friendly features (like low-energy lighting or water-saving systems) are especially attractive to younger renters.


Landlord insight: Updating kitchens, bathrooms, or adding smart home features can justify higher rents.


What Amenities Matter Most According to Greystar’s Design Survey This study polled 90,000 renters across multiple markets.

Here’s what came out on top:

Amenity / Feature

% Interested

% Who Say They “Wouldn’t Rent Without It”

Walk-in closets

~88%

~37% BDC Network+1

Large windows / abundant natural light

~86%

~31% Multifamily Dive+1

Fresh air ventilation

~86%

~17% Multifamily Dive

Covered parking / garage

~84%

~33% Multifamily Dive

High-efficiency appliances

~83%

~12% Multifamily Dive

What this suggests:Many rental units that lack one or more of these features might lose out especially against competing units that include them. The more amenities that align with these top preferences, the stronger your property’s appeal.


5. Flexibility and Fairness

Tenants don’t just look at the unit; they consider the landlord or property manager. A professional, fair, and responsive management style plays a big psychological role.

  • Renters want landlords who communicate clearly and fairly.

  • Flexible lease terms or pet-friendly policies reduce stress and widen the tenant pool.

Landlord insight: How you present yourself matters. At Strategic Growth, we help landlords manage communication and tenant relations so properties remain attractive.


The Emotional Side of Renting

  • First impressions count. Clean, bright, and staged units photograph better and rent faster.

  • Storytelling matters. A well-written listing that paints a lifestyle sells better than a dry bullet-point list.

  • Small details feel big. Even small touches (like modern fixtures or fresh paint) influence how tenants picture themselves living in the space.


Why This Matters for Landlords

Understanding the psychology of renters is key to reducing vacancies and maximizing rental income. It’s not just about setting a fair price it’s about creating a property and experience that feels like home.

At Strategic Growth Real Estate, we help property owners in Los Angeles:

  • Identify what today’s renters value most.

  • Upgrade units strategically to boost appeal and rent.

  • Market properties with a focus on lifestyle and psychology.

  • Build strong tenant relationships that encourage renewals.


Final Thoughts

In Los Angeles, attracting tenants isn’t just about rent it’s about creating homes that feel good, meet modern needs, and give renters peace of mind. Features like natural light, walk-in closets, fresh air, and reliable amenities are what truly make a property stand out.

At Strategic Growth Real Estate, we help property owners understand these renter priorities and make the right improvements so their properties stay competitive and profitable. Our goal is simple: keep your tenants happy and your investment growing.


Sources:

 
 
bottom of page