How Is the Shift Toward Remote Work Changing Apartment Preferences in Brookline?

 The shift towards remote work has significantly altered the preferences of renters in Brookline, Massachusetts. This has led to a notable transformation in the local apartment market. Of late, there is a surge in demand for apartments that cater to the needs of the remote worker. This evolving landscape reflects a move away from prioritizing mere convenience to the workplace.

The shift is not just about finding a place to live; it's about creating an environment conducive to productivity, comfort, and well-being. So, in this article, we will try and explore how this trend is reshaping housing choices, driving changes in apartment preferences, and influencing the overall dynamics of this suburb’s rental market.
       

Demand for Larger Apartments

The rise of remote work has increased the demand for larger, more flexible living spaces. A large percentage of renters are now prioritizing space, functionality, and lifestyle compatibility over mere proximity to their workplaces. This shift is reflected in the increased demand for apartments in Brookline, which is known for its small-town appeal and big-city conveniences.

According to Boston Pads, the average rent price for 4 bedroom and 5 bedroom apartments in Brookline rose by 7.51% and 9.88% respectively over the last 2 years, indicating a higher demand for larger units. This trend is likely to continue as utility costs rise, incentivizing renters to seek out roommates and larger apartments to split costs.

Emphasis on Home Office Space

With remote work becoming a fixture in modern life, the need for a dedicated home office has become paramount. Developers in Brookline are responding by incorporating remote work-focused arrangements in new multifamily developments.

Some apartments have dedicated office nooks and flexible layouts. This can include built-in desk areas, often in bedrooms or living rooms. Convertible dens or flex rooms designed to serve as quiet, enclosed office areas are also becoming popular. Due to the decline of formal mealtime, owners of apartments with separate dining rooms are now rebranding those rooms as workspaces.

Apartments with thoughtfully designed floor plans that separate work and living zones for better work-life balance are highly desirable in a telecommuting or hybrid work environment. These changes are a direct response to residents seeking more than just a spot at the kitchen table to log into Zoom.

In larger buildings, developers are beginning to prioritize high-speed internet infrastructure and tech-readiness to attract new tenants. Features such as co-working lounges, conference rooms, and private rooms or meeting pods are becoming more common. Many also have outdoor work zones and Wi-Fi in indoor and outdoor common areas. Some places are even improving sound insulation to reduce noise between units and within workspaces.

Lower Cost of Living means Greater Savings

Remote work has enabled renters to move to areas with a lower cost of living. Brookline, while still relatively expensive, offers a more affordable alternative to Boston's urban core. This trend is supported by the fact that rent price growth for larger units kept pace with smaller apartment sizes in 2024, suggesting that renters are willing to pay more for the space and amenities offered by larger apartments. Renters are now more inclined to choose locations that offer features such as parks, schools, and recreational facilities. This clearly implies preferences of renters towards a more balanced lifestyle.

What Does the Rental Market of Brookline Suggest?

Brookline's rental market has demonstrated a degree of stability and predictability, with slight increases in average rent prices for larger apartments. However, the real-time availability rate (RTAR) in Brookline is currently at 3.98%, down 14.96% from last year, and the real-time vacancy rate (RTVR) is currently at 1.11%, down 10.48% from last year.

In short, this implies that Brookline's rental market, while stable, is experiencing increased demand. Despite the decrease in available units, prices have not spiked. This means it's still a good time to find an apartment in Brookline. As September 1st approaches, expect to see availability continue to decrease and prices edge upward - or, the apartments with better pricing will be rented faster and the more expensive units will be all that remains.

Final Thoughts

The shift towards remote work has significantly influenced apartment preferences in Brookline. Renters are now seeking larger, more flexible living spaces that can accommodate both living and working needs. This trend is supported by economic incentives, lifestyle changes, and market dynamics. This, of course, creates a rental market where larger units are not only sought-after, but also increasingly accessible due to the principles of supply-side economics.