Small changes, big impact
Tenants are not just looking for a room in the right postcode. They are looking for a place that feels well cared for, well equipped and well run.
These are not luxury demands. They are practical asks – a cleaner home, a decent mattress, somewhere to eat that is not your lap. Small improvements have a big influence on how a place feels.
Homes that get these things right do more than attract tenants. They create fewer complaints, reduce friction between housemates, and provide a more stable living environment overall.
The top five improvements tenants want from shared living
According to tenant feedback, here are the most important improvements that would make shared housing more appealing:
- Higher cleanliness standards – 57%
- Lower rent – 51%
- Better quality of furnishings and amenities – 41%
- Better matching of tenants based on lifestyle and interests – 40%
- Enhanced privacy options – 29%
Why this matters for property managers
The message from tenants is clear. Shared housing does not need high-end extras. It needs the basics done properly.
- Clean, well-maintained homes set the tone from day one.
- Fair and transparent pricing makes tenants more likely to stay.
- Quality furnishings, good amenities and privacy all contribute to comfort and satisfaction.
- Compatibility reduces conflict and helps households feel more stable.
For property managers, these are small, actionable steps that can deliver real returns in tenant satisfaction, retention and long-term occupancy.
FAQs about improving shared housing
What is the biggest improvement tenants want?
57% of tenants said higher cleanliness standards would make shared housing more appealing.
Is lower rent the main priority?
Lower rent is important, with 51% mentioning it, but cleanliness ranked even higher.
Do tenants care about compatibility?
Yes. 40% of tenants said better matching of housemates based on lifestyle and interests would improve shared living.
What role does privacy play?
29% of tenants said enhanced privacy options, such as better room layouts or soundproofing, would make shared housing more appealing.
👉 Want to see the full survey results on tenant expectations? Download the State of Shared Living 2025 report.
Small changes, big impact
Tenants are not just looking for a room in the right postcode. They are looking for a place that feels well cared for, well equipped and well run.
These are not luxury demands. They are practical asks – a cleaner home, a decent mattress, somewhere to eat that is not your lap. Small improvements have a big influence on how a place feels.
Homes that get these things right do more than attract tenants. They create fewer complaints, reduce friction between housemates, and provide a more stable living environment overall.
The top five improvements tenants want from shared living
According to tenant feedback, here are the most important improvements that would make shared housing more appealing:
- Higher cleanliness standards – 57%
- Lower rent – 51%
- Better quality of furnishings and amenities – 41%
- Better matching of tenants based on lifestyle and interests – 40%
- Enhanced privacy options – 29%
Why this matters for property managers
The message from tenants is clear. Shared housing does not need high-end extras. It needs the basics done properly.
- Clean, well-maintained homes set the tone from day one.
- Fair and transparent pricing makes tenants more likely to stay.
- Quality furnishings, good amenities and privacy all contribute to comfort and satisfaction.
- Compatibility reduces conflict and helps households feel more stable.
For property managers, these are small, actionable steps that can deliver real returns in tenant satisfaction, retention and long-term occupancy.
FAQs about improving shared housing
What is the biggest improvement tenants want?
57% of tenants said higher cleanliness standards would make shared housing more appealing.
Is lower rent the main priority?
Lower rent is important, with 51% mentioning it, but cleanliness ranked even higher.
Do tenants care about compatibility?
Yes. 40% of tenants said better matching of housemates based on lifestyle and interests would improve shared living.
What role does privacy play?
29% of tenants said enhanced privacy options, such as better room layouts or soundproofing, would make shared housing more appealing.
👉 Want to see the full survey results on tenant expectations? Download the State of Shared Living 2025 report.
