Apr 2026
How commercial property managers can win over Gen Z tenants
Gen Z will soon account for 30% of the workforce, according to a February 2026 article by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). Commercial property managers should take note of how to appeal to this younger generation of tenants. The article outlines three ways managers can appeal to Gen Z and remain competitive.
Built-in technology
Having come of age during the rise of the smartphone, Gen Z tenants have spent the majority of their lives interacting in the digital realm. For this younger generation, technology isn’t solely for recreational or productive pursuits. Instead, they expect technology to be built into their everyday lives, including the properties they inhabit. Commercial multifamily properties should focus on incorporating smart access credentials and centralized management platforms for secure, fast, easy and seamless building entry and delivery management.
Transparency
Younger renters value transparency when it comes to their decision-making. To build trust, commercial real estate stakeholders should prioritize transparency in:
- Cost and fees
- Access policies and building rules
- Use of security technology and data
By leaning into proactive transparency, property managers can reduce Gen Z tenants’ hesitations when leasing a space.
Intuitive, responsive systems
Convenience is the name of the game when attracting younger generations. When choosing tenant management software and physical ports of entry, commercial real estate properties should look for systems that offer:
- Mobile-first access
- Consistent experiences across the building
- Visible security, like CCTV cameras
- Responsive resolution to questions and issues
