Right, "whenever possible"; I know it isn't always possible or best. Not sure that's going to be the thing that tips the scales though, even though I know it's not a small undertaking. It's also all the other dumb shit that people pay extra for, like stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. Most building owners are going to charge as much as they can regardless and a balcony isn't a huge predictor of rent price.

It's just a basic quality of life thing. They're great for mental health, air, just having a private outdoor space (quite handy in a pandemic), a place for people to grow their own food, etc. The doors are usually big enough that they make a whole space feel larger. I imagine for most people having one will have a bigger impact on their well being than a walk-in closet or whatever other feature they're using the justify an insane rent.

Most importantly, drinking on porches and balconies is peak Richmond.