If I fantasize about myself being a renter, there is one thing for sure: I want enough amenities to make me happy while I am home, to allow me to become a part of my home community and interact with people, but not so many amenities that I don't go out and become a part of the larger community. Does that make sense?

I'm also thinking why not brainstorm out of the ordinary tchotchkis for condo complexes as well?

Cool article in the Washington Post Thursday on a rental complex called Camden College Park. They are offering some amenities that are not the norm: WiFi, W ii, ipod docks in fitness center, a croquet and bocce ball set up (although they spelled it boccie which I think is wrong, anyone know? lol).

Would you like a game room with a poker table? Flat screen televisions in the community room? Fitness rooms are de rigeur now but having a W ii game is not! When I first moved to Maryland in my twenties, one of my neighbors invited me to a Summer party and they had bocce....it was totally new to me and I loved it (I'm saying this because this Camden College Park complex does not seem to be geared towards older people but rather people of all ages....albeit ones with enough money to live there).

What about a climbing wall?On my wish list would be a coffee house. Starbucks or a cool independent (translation: one with really good coffee). They could offer WiFi as well. And I have to admit the poker table appeals to me.

This is discussed as a luxury building. Could some of the amenities be included into moderate apartment complexes? I'd say the climbing wall probably costs a bit of money but an Internet Coffee house would bring in money to the owner of the building so it shouldn't drive up rental prices. Any developers reading? If so, your expertise would be appreciated.

What else would float your boat that hasn't been mentioned? I'd add only one more thing: how about instead of underground parking it had a light rail stop underground so I never had to get wet or snowed on while waiting for it.) (okay that one's a bit pricey; how about a light rail stop across from the complex? Good compromise?) And yes, Camden will have what I want:

"....Other conveniences include a car-wash station; proximity to the University of Maryland shuttle bus and Metrobus; and an adjacent new shopping center that includes a Potbelly sandwich shop, a Starbucks, a FedEx Kinko's and a Mexican restaurant. This summer, the complex will begin its own shuttle service to the Greenbelt Metro during rush hours...."

What say you?  Peace Out - 3C