05 Jun Take 5 | June 2025
- Mailrooms Signed, Sealed, Delivered
Fast Company recently gave a great snapshot of the increasingly important role mailrooms play in multi-family and student housing. “Real estate’s hottest new amenity is . . . the mailroom?” reviews how smart designers are transforming once utilitarian spaces into inviting amenity space that fosters both personal enjoyment and community interaction.
- Richer Renters
The renter landscape is changing according to a new report from Redfin. Redfin Report: The Rise of the Rich Renter highlights that nationwide, the income needed to afford the median-priced home rose 36.9% from 2019, while rents increased 28.1%. This shift is making renting an increasingly attractive option even for the wealthy. The report also mentions markets where this shift is most prevalent.
- Lifestyle Renters on the Rise
“Lifestyle Renters Put a New Spin on The American Dream,” discusses data from Entrata’s The New American Dream report which was published last year and indicates renting as a lifestyle is increasing. The report cites that 41% of renters say their American Dream has nothing to do with homeownership and 20% expect to be lifelong renters, an increase of 33% from 2021. Single-family rental (SFR) homes are increasingly in demand along with build-to-rent (BTR) communities. Less cost-conscious, these renters prioritize amenities, convenience and flexibility.
- Conversation Pits Resurface
Mansion Global reports sunken, Hippie-era lounge setups are making a comeback with sleek sophisticated styles. Design elements that create visual drama and contemporary comfort are covered in “The Conversation Pit Is Back. These Living Rooms Get Deep.”
- Longevity Tourism Gains Popularity
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) reports that longevity-focused tourism is rapidly becoming the new frontier of luxury. “The Rise of Longevity-Focused Hospitality: Redefining Luxury in the Age of Wellness Tourism” covers the growing demand for longevity sanctuaries that require brands to reimagine guest experiences.