Focusing on “best-in-scale” digital infrastructure helps MDUs uncover untapped revenue potential
There’s a serious technology dilemma multifamily property owners and managers face: balancing the push for the latest smart living experiences with the increasing costs and complications of adopting leading-edge technology. But there is no avoiding it, when 75% of renters want smart home technology, and nearly 60% are willing to sacrifice other amenities like pools and on-site fitness facilities for smart features.
Properties facing these ever-changing expectations can struggle to install, integrate, and manage all the moving parts, especially in an era where tech talent is scarce and budgets are tight.
MDUs are turning to smart, scalable solutions that just work. Prioritizing multifamily digital infrastructure over flashy innovations simplifies operations, boosts efficiency, and unlocks new revenue opportunities.
Practicality comes first
Instead of chasing the latest tech that’s not quite ready for market, successful properties focus on reliable, scalable networks and digital infrastructure that does double duty.
Case in point: Wi-Fi 7. While the new protocol is getting a lot of attention for its faster speed and higher capacity, it’s simply not worth the cost to invest in right now. Most properties aren’t even maxing out their Wi-Fi 6 yet, and less than 6% of all new devices are Wi-Fi 7 compatible.
What residents really want is strong, reliable Wi-Fi that supports their work, entertainment, and education needs wherever they roam. The ability to connect in common areas and throughout the community is among the top priorities for renters.
Yet, in many properties that rely on retail Wi-Fi (using an-ISP provided Wi-Fi router for each unit), remote workers can’t even stay connected if they move out onto the balcony of their unit due to coverage and interference from other units. On the other hand, network security can be a problem in properties with open Wi-Fi networks. The lack of security exposes everyone who connects to the threat of cyberattack.
Instead of upgrading to Wi-Fi 7, sticking with Wi-Fi 6 (which is more than adequate) and investing in robust, property-wide managed Wi-Fi supports the needs of both residents and operators. This digital infrastructure for multifamily provides an immediate and direct ROI, higher NOI, and resident satisfaction, while laying the foundation for future expansion. Having ubiquitous connectivity that works is better than faster service that limits user options.
Thoughtful tech adoption
Even better, a solid, property-wide Wi-Fi network doesn’t just satisfy residents’ connectivity needs; it becomes the backbone for revenue generation. The average technology amenity fee is $75 a month, and over 80% of renters say it’s worth it for a top-notch technology experience.
But smart tech must add value. Do residents need a smart refrigerator to tell them when to buy milk? Probably not, but a video doorbell? The data suggests they do. In fact, roughly 60% of MDU residents want to be able to monitor activity outside their home or communicate with people at their door.
Optimize for lower energy use
Reducing energy cost is a major priority for utilities-inclusive properties. MDUs that have the digital infrastructure to implement smart tech to manage energy see on average a 19% decrease in energy expense and 18% lower operating costs.
Wi-Fi connected Energy Management Systems (EMS) not only allow residents to set custom schedules for maximum comfort but also allow property managers to set thresholds and monitor for anomalies to reduce excess use. That way if a resident cranks up her heat to 110-degrees to host a weekly hot yoga class in her apartment, or a window gets left open by a paint crew in Albuquerque while the AC runs for a month (both true stories!), property managers can intervene.
An EMS can also help MDU owners meet sustainability mandates. In New York City, for example, building owners must prove they’ve reduced their carbon footprint 25% by 2030 or else face penalties. The EMS can monitor and report on consumption to prove compliance, thus reducing the risk of fines that erode NOI.
Security is non-negotiable
When it comes to smart tech investment, physical security is a must. Nearly three-fourths of residents say theft and break-in deterrent is their number one priority. Property-wide managed Wi-Fi gives MDU owners the flexibility to add electronic door locks, gate and parking access control, as well as cameras. These not only provide peace of mind, but they also save money: properties with smart security see 21% fewer safety and security incidents, which helps lower insurance and boost resident retention.
Beyond convenience for residents, who can give their code to dog walkers, house cleaners, and service technicians, smart access also greatly reduces unit turnover expenses, which can cost up to three months’ worth of rent. With smart security, instead of changing out locks and replacing keys, operators can simply recode the door locks in minutes.
Build with flexibility in mind
The reality is no one can predict what the technology of the future will look like. Not long ago, healthy air components were expected to be all the rage in MDUs. Now they don’t even make the list of renters’ demands. But not being able to predict doesn’t mean you can’t prepare. Already 41% of MDUs report challenges in managing multiple smart tech solutions, with the average property is dealing with 21.5 proptech vendors across their portfolios.
For simplicity and cost savings, it’s more important than ever to choose highly compatible, scalable, and interoperable network components that support seamless integration with whatever technology comes next.
Lay the digital infrastructure groundwork for long-term success
A foundation-first approach to MDU digital infrastructure transforms property-wide managed Wi-Fi from an operational expense into a strategic asset. It means you’re not just providing an amenity—you’re building a scalable platform for revenue generation and operational efficiency.
Smart tech isn’t just about having the fastest network in town; it’s about choosing solutions that can scale up, not out, to deliver measurable ROI from day one. Nomadix is here to help with all your network needs, please contact us for more information about our multi-tenant solutions.
Sandy Jack is Vice President of Strategic Relations – Multifamily at Nomadix, an ASSA ABLOY company. With over a decade of experience in the multifamily, Sandy is a passionate and trusted advisor, helping leverage connectivity and property technology (proptech) solutions to help properties achieve their business goals.
This article originally appeared on BBCmag.com.