Renters focus on money-saving amenities

(AP) Renters might have the upper hand in today's apartment market, but they're not taking all they can get.

Budget-minded and worried about employment, tenants are eschewing the fancy extras for more basic, money-saving amenities. They want energy-efficient appliances to cut costly bills and flexible leases in case of a job loss, landlords and apartment managers say.

Paid utilities and washers and dryers in units topped the amenities list for renters from February to August on ApartmentGuide.com's site, while luxury amenities like walk-in closets and hardwood floors ranked last in Rent.com searches last year. The site continues to see that trend this year.

Original Article