How Build-to-Rent BTR Housing is Driving New Faucet Specifications

Build-to-Rent (BTR) housing is the newish housing category designed to give long-term renters many of the benefits of owning a home. So, it stands to reason that the electrical, plumbing, and faucet specifications are geared more towards homeowners than renters. Among other qualities, faucets in BTR housing need to be durable and suited for frequent use for many years. Let’s back up a bit and talk about BTR housing. As we’ve mentioned in past articles about the subject, Built-to-Rent homes give renters the chance to get a taste of homeownership without the high mortgage rates or large down payment. The average price of a home in this country has been over $500,000 since 2021 and is still climbing steadily, so it makes sense that many people are choosing to rent rather than buy. However, renters still want their home to feel like their own, which is how BTR housing came to be. BTR homes generally have front yards, back yards, garages, driveways, and sometimes shared recreational and fitness amenities. Residents tend to want higher quality faucets than is generally found in a rental, with additional features.

BTR Homes’ Faucets Must be Durable

Since BTR homes are designed for long-term residents, it’s expected that the faucets operate well for years. Durability is key to a BTR faucet that resembles one of an owner-occupied residence. For example, the Single-Handle Pre-Rinse Spring Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet comes from the Pioneer i3 series, which is known for its excellent durability and longevity thanks to rigorous factory testing and a focus on quality parts and finish coating. Another good choice for durability is the Single-Handle Kitchen Faucet from the Olympia Accent series, which comes with a lifetime residential warranty. These products give renters and property managers peace of mind that the faucets will look great and stay fully functional for the entirety of their contract. Which, according to research by Urban Land Magazine, can be upwards of six years.

When Possible, BTR Homes’ Faucets Should be Premium

Living in a home for several years will rightfully prompt residents to expect faucets with premium features that match the design of their homes. BTR housing residents tend to have a higher household income than apartment-dwellers, and BTR housing units have an overall higher monthly price tag to match. When potential residents tour BTR homes, quality faucets and shower trim sets matter as much as up-to-date cabinets, countertops, and appliances, for significantly less of the build budget. Pioneer’s Two-Handle Kitchen Bridge Faucet, for example, is very popular thanks in part to the return to traditional “cottagecore” tastes of a younger generation. It’s sold in four different finishes that are bound to match any design: chrome, PVD brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and Moroccan bronze. A separate, brass side spray hose is a convenient additional feature that will get noticed. For the other side of the spectrum, the minimalist Pioneer Single-Handle Pull-Down Faucet has sleek lines and a pull-down hose. The straight lines make cleaning easy, and the minimalist design brings sophistication and sculptural shape to any aesthetic.

Why BTR Drives New Faucet Specifications

Renters in BTR homes expect a similar experience to a homeowner paying a monthly mortgage payment. This means that faucets in BTR houses need to have the same durability. Factory-tested, quality faucets offer the same longevity in a rental home as an owner-occupied home. Rental properties can often have cheaper fixtures, are are expected to be repaired and replaced throughout many contracts, but BTR homes are built to last. Faucets for BTR housing are best when they boast high-quality parts and long-term warranties, as longer warranties usually indicate higher-quality products. Matching aesthetics are another important factor residents look for in a long-term home, which is why a faucet that comes in multiple finishes and has additional features will make a difference in the way the market reception the BTR product gets.

Wrapping it All Up

As a trusted supplier of faucets and fixtures for over 100 years, Pioneer, Central Brass, and Olympia are here for you. Embrace the benefits of quality, product availability, and shipping speed by partnering with Pioneer. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your project is in good hands and transform your building or home with these beautiful and exceptionally durable faucets. All are backed by a best-in-the-industry warranty, are easy to install, and will stand the test of time. 

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