Don't ignore the four Fs of residential developments

So you’ve settled on a suburb or area that you want to invest in, and you’ve narrowed it down to a handful of competing developments.

They’re all in great spots, in similar price ranges.

How do you separate them?

One of the biggest mistakes clever investors make is to ignore what I call the four Fs – facilities, fixtures, fittings and finish.

There are 10 four F trends you must be aware of.

1. Smart living: data cabling and wireless

Everybody needs the net at home. Make sure your property has smart wiring built into the walls – you don’t want to add it later. Most developers now offer data and TV cabling to most living and study areas, and demand will only increase. If your development is solid concrete, where can tenants use wireless internet devices, or even mobile phones?

2.  Lap pool and gym

Forget the old jellybean shape; the hot new trend is a lap pool. They create a quieter environment too, because they’re less about “play” and more about exercise and wellbeing. Well-equipped gyms are becoming much more common in small to mid-size developments.

3.  Shared spaces: quality and quantity

Large developments used to have a pool and a barbecue space; now there’s a trend for smaller developments to provide a wide selection of shared spaces for residents to enjoy. Small theatres, rooftop lounges, boardrooms and function rooms – these are all “bang on trend” at the moment.

4.  Natural ventilation and air-conditioning

Some tenants will rely on air-conditioning. Others don’t want an electricity bill up in the stratosphere, so they’re demanding natural ventilation. Either way, there’s a clear trend towards apartments that cost less to live in. Can you control the air-con to shut off rooms you’re not using?

5.  Natural light and energy-efficient light fittings

The big trend towards energy efficiency means ample windows, aspect and surrounding buildings all play a role. A certain proportion of a new dwelling’s light fittings are required to be “energy efficient”; ask the developer about fittings that are used every night.

6.  Two-pack cabinetry and stone benchtops

A few years ago, quality two-pack cabinetry and stone benches only featured in the kitchens and bathrooms of the most expensive houses. Now you’ll find them in most mid-range apartments. Don’t settle for less; they will last longer. Another quality trend: “soft-close” drawers – if Ikea can make them standard, so can your developer.

7.  Kitchen appliances: quality and function

Stainless steel is still hot and will probably never go out of fashion. But it’s the little details ticking boxes these days: a fridge dispensing ice and water; a bigger oven; a wider cooktop; a built-in coffee machine. Negotiate just one “wow” factor into your kitchen, and tenants will love you.

8.  Floors: tough and durable

The trend here is for longevity. Carpets are generally darker and limited to bedrooms. The most durable living area floor is a tiled one – glossy or matte, pick any style you like as long as it’s not terracotta. Their day has passed!

9.  Storage: clever and plentiful

Not so much a trend as a fact of life – we all need somewhere to put our stuff. The more storage space in an apartment, the better.

10. Style: modern and comfortable

Just like a good wine, you want your property to age well. The trend for finishes is simple: modern, spacious designs that can stand the test of time, but are also welcoming, comfortable – and feel like a home.

So next time you go into a display suite or onto a new estate, ask the sales rep to tell you about their four Fs.