Point2: House Renters Prioritizing Space, Pets, Privacy

(Image courtesy of Point2; Breakout image courtesy of Dom Bucci/pexels.com)

Point2, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, conducted a survey of renters of single-family homes, finding that privacy and space are among the top motivators–but the comfort of their furry friends also ranks high.

Single-family renter households pointed to “more privacy” as their top reason for renting a house instead of an apartment, at 27.7%. Rounding out the top five answers were “for more space,” “to have a yard or garden,” “better pet accommodations” and “to accommodate a growing family.”

In terms of factors most likely to influence renters to go for a house instead of an apartment, the top answer was “rent,” at 70.2%. There was also “house size,” at 28.1%, “pet policy” at 23.2%, “condition of the house” at 20.2% and “proximity to work or school” at 16%.

Many single-family household renters are happy with their current rental, at 59.2%, and 27.4% are neutral. A relatively small number–13.4%–are not satisfied.

They also don’t view it as a permanent substitute to home ownership–with 51.9% considering buying a house.

Looking specifically at Gen Z renters, 28% rent with their significant others, but 23% rent alone–marking the second-highest share of solo renters after seniors over 60.

Gen Z renters of single-family homes particularly point to privacy as a motivating factor, with 33.3% compared with 27.7% overall. And, 44% said eco-friendliness is important to them in their rental choice.