The real estate game is shifting, and in Pakistan’s evolving property market, a tenant-centric approach is no longer a choice; it’s a necessity. With nearly 7 million tenants across the country (as per the 7th Population Census 2023), the rental market is booming. Today’s tenants of both residential and commercial requirements expect more than just space. 

But this isn’t just about better living or a better footprint; it’s smart business. Happy tenants drive higher revenues through longer lease terms, fewer vacancies, and stronger referrals. They help build a developer’s brand, attract premium clients, and convert properties into reliable, income-generating assets. As urbanization continues, adopting a tenant-focused mindset isn’t just the future; it’s the key to long-term success in Pakistan’s real estate market.

What is a Tenant-Centric Approach in Real Estate?

We all know that for decades, property development in Pakistan has been largely driven by what and how the developer wanted to build their project on the ground. But with the growing awareness about modern amenities, flexibility in payment models, aesthetic vision, and community facilities, property buyers and tenants have redefined their choices. Therefore, builders have shifted from the developer-centric to the tenant-centric approach in property development. 

A tenant-centric approach in real estate is developing spaces that align with the needs of tenants. Both residential and commercial tenants in Pakistan want spaces that offer not just utility, but ease of investment, high-value location, flexible payment plan, and customized experience. And for developers in Pakistan, embracing this tenant-first mindset has been key to staying relevant and competitive in a rapidly changing market.

Core Principle of a Tenant-Centric Real Estate Development

The core principle of a tenant-centric strategy is to prioritize a tenant experience by developing projects that meet the needs of a modern tenant. It compels the developer to keep tenants’ preferences central to decision-making. The tenant-centric approach in real estate includes four important features.

• Location value
• Structural layout and design
• Security & transparency
• Flexibility of rental leasing and transfers

What Does A Modern Tenant Want?

In industries such as hospitality, banking, and transportation, we’ve seen how customer-centric approaches have disrupted traditional models and redefined success. Real estate is no exception; it has also evolved to meet the needs of modern tenants, their habits, preferences, and aspirations through the buyer-centric and tenant-centric approach. 

Renters do not just look for square footage; they seek value, prestige, and a better user experience. 

• Key Needs: Accessibility, flexible payment plans, security, convenience, personalization, wellness-focused design (natural lighting, air quality, green areas)
  
• Evolving Preferences: Hybrid workspaces, modern amenities like EV stations, nearby shopping and play areas, nearby health facilities, door-to-door grocery, eco-conscious living, community spaces, digital access control, digital parking, digital rent payments
  

How Do Linkers International Build the Tenant-Friendly Projects?

Linkers International is recognized for prioritizing client preferences in every project development. Unlike conventional real estate developers who focus solely on maximizing space or profitability, Linkers International begins every project with a deep understanding of what a client or tenant truly wants and needs.

• Research & Development (R&D) for every project (location, amenities, future value)
• High-in-demand locations, such as DHA Islamabad & Gulberg Greens, that drive business growth.
• Flexible floor plans and layouts
• Build-to-lease, co-living, and lifestyle-driven constructions.
• Modern amenities, spacious parking, and eco-friendly designs
• Flexible leasing and transfer options
• Dedicated Property Management Proactive maintenance
• Secure and well-maintained environment

From strategic location selection, based on accessibility, surrounding amenities, and community needs, to intuitive structural layouts that prioritize comfort, usability, and aesthetics, every element is thoughtfully designed to align with modern tenant expectations.

Recent Tenant Centric Developments by Linkers International

At Linkers International, we believe great spaces start with the people who live and work in them. The recent developments of Linkers International reflect a strong shift toward tenant-centric design, built around convenience, transparency and modern lifestyles.

Pearl Business Center DHA-I Islamabad – Ready Project for Tenants with High-Potential

At Linkers International, flexibility and functionality are at the heart of every project, and Pearl Business Center (PBC) DHA 1, Islamabad, is a prime example. This ready-to-move commercial development offers tenants customizable spaces, adjustable rental terms, and a strategic location ideal for business growth in a thriving community.

As part of the tenant-centric approach, Linkers International has Seizal Supermarket onboard, a valued tenant and a trusted retail brand at Pearl Business Center (PBC). Seizal adds everyday convenience for the entire community while increasing foot traffic for surrounding businesses. Their presence reflects our commitment to attracting quality tenants that contribute to a vibrant, experience-driven commercial environment. At PBC, tenants don’t just rent space; they become part of a thriving business ecosystem designed for growth.

Pearl Heights Gulberg Greens  – Fully Let Project

Pearl Heights by Linkers International is a commercial project that offers a vibrant mix of offices and retail shops designed to meet the diverse needs of modern tenants. With a focus on convenience and accessibility, Pearl Heights has successfully onboarded a variety of businesses, creating a dynamic community where professionals and shoppers thrive side by side.

Tower 81 Gulberg Greens Islamabad 

Tower 81 is a premium commercial development dedicated primarily to office spaces. It provides tenants with flexible, well-designed work environments equipped to support growing businesses. The project emphasizes transparency and ease, ensuring tenants enjoy a seamless leasing experience.

Pearl Arcade – A Multi-Purpose Project for Tenants 

Pearl Arcade, a commercial project located in Gulberg Green, Islamabad, brings essential healthcare and diagnostic services closer to tenants with reputed brands like Hyatt Pharmacy, Latif Medical Center, and CMA Diagnostics onboard. This tenant mix highlights Linkers International’s commitment to creating spaces that support lifestyle needs alongside business growth.

Gulberg Nova Islamabad – Fully Tenanted Development

Gulberg Nova is emerging as a key hub for businesses and corporates. By onboarding several tech and travel firms such as Centrox AI, and Kingdom Ride, the development caters to the dynamic demands of multiple industries while providing tenants with flexible office solutions designed for success in a fast-paced sector.

Corporate One Gulberg Green Islamabad – Tenant-Filled, Income Generating Asset

Corporate One is a premium commercial development by Linkers International, located in the heart of Gulberg Green, Islamabad. It is designed to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses. With contemporary architecture, high-speed connectivity, secure access systems, and flexible office layouts, Corporate 1 offers a complete ecosystem for startups, SMEs, and established enterprises alike.

Built with a tenant-first mindset, Corporate One focuses on more than just providing office space; it delivers an environment that supports productivity, innovation, and long-term business growth.

Linkers International has onboarded Alestra, a forward-looking tech company, as a valued tenant at Corporate One. Their presence reflects our commitment to attracting progressive, quality-driven businesses that align with the dynamic spirit of the project. With Alestra onboard, Corporate One continues to evolve as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and commercial success.

What Challenges and Roadblocks Do Developers Face?

While the shift toward tenant-centric real estate sounds ideal, the path to getting there isn’t without obstacles. Many developers in Pakistan still operate within traditional frameworks, where short-term gains often outweigh long-term tenant satisfaction. However, those who prefer tenants’ choices might face small or big challenges.

• Financial impracticability of the project
• Balancing personalization with scalability 
• Rising construction costs
• Cultural resistance in traditional real estate models
  

Cultural Resistance to Tenant-Centric Approach in Traditional Real Estate Models

One of the key challenges developers face in adopting a tenant-centric approach is cultural resistance rooted in traditional real estate models. In many parts of Pakistan, real estate has long been viewed primarily as a build-and-sell or build-to-hold asset, with limited emphasis on tenant experience, flexibility, or long-term engagement.  This mindset often prioritizes immediate returns over sustainable value creation, making it difficult to introduce modern concepts like;

• Tenant experience
• Contemporary amenities
• Shared workspaces
• Customizable layouts
• Service-based leasing models
• Long-term ROI benefits

Developers pushing for innovation must navigate not only market expectations but also outdated investor attitudes, bureaucratic inertia, and limited awareness among property owners about the benefits of tenant satisfaction and retention.

Additionally, integrating smart technologies, sustainable materials, and flexible design features can significantly raise upfront investment costs. Overcoming these challenges isn’t easy, but for forward-thinking developers, it’s the only way to stay relevant in a rapidly transforming market.

Building Projects with a People-first Approach

In a market of over 7 million tenants, the message is clear: those who build for people win. And Linkers International isn’t just following the trend, they’re leading it. Linkers stand at the forefront of this transformation. 

By putting tenants at the heart of every decision, from prime location selection and functional design to flexible leasing models and modern amenities, Linkers has redefined what it means to build with purpose. Their consistent delivery of innovative, people-first developments underscores their commitment to progress.