FirstService Residential Uncovers Why Homebuyers Are Choosing Amenity-Rich Communities Long-Term

Survey of more than 1,500 homeowners finds not only design but activation drives the purchase, and that amenity-rich communities raise retention and property values

DANIA BEACH, Fla., Oct. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- FirstService Residential, North America's leading residential property management company, and its division of FirstService Development Advisors released its national master-planned community research on placemaking, the combination of design, amenities and lifestyle programming that shapes home-buying decisions.

Conducted by ProMatura Group, LLC and presented at the 2026 ULI Fall Meeting in Miami, the survey of 1,600 residents across six master-planned communities in Florida, California, Virginia, and Texas had an average homeownership duration of 7.8 years. From the diverse mix of ages, families and active adults (55+) evaluated, community design drove the purchase decision at 46%, while amenities led the choice to stay at 49%. Additionally, 50% of respondents ranked outdoor amenities with nature-connected features and dedicated lifestyle programming as "important," "very important," or a vital contributor to their quality of life.

"Prospective residents buy into a community with their eyes, but they stay because of everything they can do once they're here," said Kellie Sambrano, senior vice president of FirstService Development Advisors. "While design wins the first look, activated amenities earn long-term loyalty, and developers who plan for both from the start will see the return in dividends when it comes to pricing and resident satisfaction."

The research also points to a financial payoff. In the sample of amenity-rich communities analyzed, homes sold for up to 46.1% more than comparable homes outside the community, and land values improved by 20.6% to 28.6%. Developers invested an additional $15,000 to $27,000 per home to get there.

Rancho Mission Viejo in South Orange County, California, served as the report's case study, and more than 90% of residents are satisfied with the amenities, safety, open space and trail access. Its RanchLife organization hosts more than 390 events a year and supports 64 resident-led clubs, funded by a fee on home sales rather than higher HOA dues.

"At Rancho Mission Viejo, we learned that amenities are only half the equation," said Paul Johnson, former executive vice president of Rancho Mission Viejo and consultant to FirstService Development Advisors. "The programming and teams that bring them to life are what turn satisfied residents into the people who recommend the community to their friends and family."

For developers, the findings point to four priorities: design for first impressions; invest early in trails, parks, and pools; balance cost with lifestyle investments that drive engagement; and introduce a dedicated community app during pre-sales so residents can experience the lifestyle before homes are built.

To learn more about the research or FirstService Development Advisors, visit https://www.fsresidential.com/fsdevelopmentadvisors/ 

About FirstService Residential
FirstService Residential is simplifying property management. Its hospitality-minded teams serve residential communities across the United States and Canada. The organization partners with boards, owners, and developers to enhance the value of every property and the life of every resident.

Leveraging unique expertise and scale, FirstService serves its clients with proven solutions and a service-first philosophy. Residents can count on 24/7 customer care and tailored lifestyle programming, amenity activation, and technology for their community's specific needs. Market-leading programs with FirstService Financial, FirstService Energy, and special districts teams deliver additional levels of support.

Boards and developers select FirstService Residential to realize their vision and drive positive change for residents in the communities in their trusted care.

FirstService Residential is a subsidiary of FirstService Corporation (NASDAQ and TSX: FSV), a North American leader in providing essential property services to a wide range of residential and commercial clients.

SOURCE FirstService Residential