Contributed Article
Let’s explore some key insights from the 20for20/RETTC White Paper, The State of Multifamily Connectivity.
By: Valerie M. Sargent, Broadband Communities
I recently sat down with multifamily technology consultant Dom Beveridge of 20for20 to discuss his newly published white paper, The State of Multifamily Connectivity. Developed in partnership with the Real Estate Technology and Transformation Center (RETTC), the paper explores the evolving role of broadband connectivity in multifamily housing. It aims to equip decision-makers with a deeper understanding of connectivity as a core infrastructure rather than a simple amenity. As Dom explained, the goal of this research is to elevate the industry’s perspective and understand the impact of digital infrastructure on resident experience and, ultimately, asset value.
Redefining connectivity as core infrastructure
One of the key points explored in the white paper is the misconception that broadband is merely an added feature, similar to luxury finishes or in-unit appliances. In reality, connectivity serves as a vital backbone for modern services that residents increasingly expect, such as smart-home systems, virtual-leasing tools, and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
“Connectivity is no longer just about accessing the internet in their apartments,” Dom noted during our conversation, highlighting how integral it has become with an increasing number of aspects of the resident experience.
Guiding multifamily leaders through the connectivity landscape
The white paper serves as an educational resource for multifamily owners, asset managers, and developers, particularly those who need to make informed choices but who may be navigating the complexities of connectivity without a technical background. By defining the available service levels, the paper seeks to demystify confusing terms such as “bulk Wi-Fi” and “managed Wi-Fi.” The research seeks to offer a clearer understanding of how different connectivity solutions impact property operations, resident satisfaction, and cost structures.
The research also emphasizes the importance of understanding the regulatory landscape. We noted in our conversation that the rental housing industry is increasingly at the intersection of technology and policy, with significant implications for connectivity investments. With Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rulings and federal broadband initiatives influencing connectivity decisions, the paper highlights key regulatory considerations that multifamily leaders must navigate and understand.
The white paper outlines how RETTC has advocated extensively on issues such as bulk billing, managed internet access, and Wi-Fi infrastructure, which continue to be affected by regulatory conversations. Understanding this regulatory environment is essential for owners considering connectivity upgrades.
Empowering informed choices for enhanced resident experiences
The concept of “choice,” and how it is misunderstood, is central to this paper. Regulators frame choice as the number of internet providers available to residents. However, the paper argues that it is no longer the right way to think about it. Wi-Fi supports an increasing number of amenities that are increasingly desirable to renters.
To understand choice, we must consider residents’ overall living experience and the amenities that affect where they choose to live in a competitive apartment market. That includes connectivity, along with its other services and amenities.
Rising expectations both for quality of internet and for the services that it supports are placing higher demands on communities’ digital infrastructure. As the research points out, that type of infrastructure is much better delivered through a single provider that manages the network (rather than having multiple competing providers), taking responsibility for the whole building, optimizing hardware, software, and service, and managing issues like signal interference, which cannot be accomplished with multiple providers in the building. By tailoring connectivity solutions to factors such as community layout, resident demographics, and future property plans, owners can deliver seamless, reliable experiences that align with both resident needs and operational goals.
At its core, this white paper is the recognition that multifamily connectivity is about much more than internet access; it’s an investment in resident satisfaction and property functionality. When owners consider connectivity as infrastructure rather than just an amenity, they create a more seamless, valuable experience for residents while enhancing the long-term value of their properties.
Looking ahead …
For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the critical role connectivity plays in multifamily housing, The State of Multifamily Connectivity offers actionable insights and recommendations. This comprehensive resource is designed to empower multifamily leaders with the tools they need to adapt to the rapidly evolving technology landscape while enhancing the resident experience. To explore the full findings and recommendations, visit RETTC’s website to download the white paper today.
Dom Beveridge is Founder of 20for20 and can be reached at dom@20for20.com.
Valerie M. Sargent is a multifamily speaker, trainer and executive consultant, and is the multifamily news correspondent for Broadband Communities. Contact her at https://valeriemsargent.com/. For more information, visit https://20for20.com, https://rettc.org, or https://bbcmag.com/.
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