While there is no failproof strategy for retaining residents, there are certain features that have a great impact on renewals, mostly related to the property’s ability to respond to the residents’ needs. When prospects are first introduced to a community, they are more likely to consider things like location, rental rates and curb appeal. Once they become residents, their attention shifts to the service level, the security and quality of the living environment, as well as management’s performance. Along with the availability of an online platform for paying rent or submitting/tracking maintenance requests and the onsite presence of responsive office staff, niche amenities are a key driver of resident satisfaction. Simple Innovation Amidst a series of distinctive features aimed at enhancing the renting experience, biking facilities could be a deal breaker for those looking to commit to healthier, more sustainable lifestyles. As a result of the growing bike culture and the benefits associated to this alternate form of transportation that’s both affordable and green, major urban cores around the country have started developing or expanding cycling infrastructure, with cities like Boston, Chicago or San Francisco boasting impressive biking networks, numerous municipal bike racks and protected bike lanes, as well as solid bike sharing programs. The Chicago Streets for Cycling Plan 2020 calls for a 645-mile network of biking facilities to be in place by 2020 to provide a bicycle accommodation within half-mile of every Chicagoan. Even New York City is interested in providing New Yorkers with an additional transportation option for getting around the city. Dubbed Citi Bike, New York’s bike sharing system is scheduled to launch in May 2013, offering 10,000 bikes in 600 stations that will be available for use 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Taking the idea of...