Bringing Multifamily Properties Into the Age of Fiber

A version of this story was originally published on MultifamilyExecutive.com.

Whether you’re planning a new development or upgrading a property, fiber internet can equip communities with the internet needs of today and tomorrow.

When it comes to technology, what worked yesterday might not work today. And tomorrow? Good luck.

This is especially true for internet connectivity in a multifamily property where residents expect high speeds and reliability. That’s why many multifamily operators are facing a critical choice on whether or not to upgrade to fiber-optic internet.

With remote work, streaming services, and smart-home technologies driving unprecedented demand for fast reliable internet, older copper lines may no longer cut it. When running internal wiring to reach each unit, CAT5e and CAT6 can go up to 1 gigabit per second or higher under ideal conditions, but these are often not enough for the growing number of devices and data-heavy activities within modern homes. Fiber-optic internet, by contrast, can offer much faster speeds and reliability, providing a future-proof solution for multifamily properties.

A Connected Community

Fiber internet brings multifamily properties into the modern age and can provide speed and reliability. This enhances the living experience for residents while also boosting the property’s marketability. Take Desert Color for example.

Desert Color is a master-planned community, developed by GWC Capital, in St. George, Utah. This project spans 3,500 acres and includes a variety of residential, commercial, and recreational amenities, all designed to foster a connected and active lifestyle—emphasis on connected. In addition to an expansive trail system that links different neighborhoods within the community, Desert Color boasts fast fiber internet, ensuring reliable connectivity propertywide.

“Our approach included ensuring that people can be connected physically, whether on a scooter, bike, or golf cart, but also digitally,” says Ryan Coates, area manager at GWC Capital.

Residents aren’t paying exorbitant costs for internet access, either. That gives Desert Color yet another competitive edge.

“Within the St. George market, we feel that our speeds and pricing are ultra-competitive, and residents have the option to upgrade to even faster speeds at a reasonable cost,” Coates says.

A Fiber Internet Overhaul

While it’s relatively easy for a new community like Desert Color to come out of the gates with blazing fast internet, older properties due for an upgrade will need to undergo a fiber-to-the-unit overbuild. It’s a process but well worth going through, and the right internet service provider will smooth the transition.

Mike Keene, project manager at New Horizon Development, worked with Quantum Fiber on several fiber overbuilds.

“When we partnered with Quantum Fiber to upgrade several properties, we weren’t just upgrading internet speeds; we were investing in the long-term competitiveness of our properties,” Keene says. “Quantum Fiber understands the intricacies of multifamily developments and works to minimize disruptions during installation.”

The typical fiber overbuild looks like this:

• Assessment of current infrastructure: Engineers and project managers collaborate with property owners to review the existing infrastructure, identifying optimal pathways for fiber installation and planning around potential challenges.
• Exterior work: Fiber installation typically begins with trenching, boring, and installing conduits to bring fiber cables from the main line to the property. This is done with careful planning to minimize disruption to residents.
• Interior work: Inside the building, fiber-optic cables are routed to individual units using existing pathways allowing for a smooth transition to fiber without major structural changes. Each unit is then equipped with a modem that converts the fiber signal for standard home networking equipment.
• Testing and activation: Once installation is complete, the system undergoes rigorous testing to ensure full functionality before being activated, providing residents with immediate high-speed internet access.

Instant Connectivity

Multifamily developer HSL Properties in Southern Arizona has another good reason to opt for fiber. Move-in-ready internet gives residents instant access—no need to call a technician.

“When our folks first open up that door and get to their unit, it works,” says Mike Censky, executive vice president of HSL’s construction division. “They can call their mom, call their bestie, and say, ‘Look at this great place I’m in.’”

This feature not only enhances resident satisfaction but also differentiates HSL’s properties from the competition.

As internet demand continues to rise, fiber-optic internet may no longer be optional—it’s now considered by most to be essential. Quantum Fiber helps multifamily property owners by tailor designing and installing the fiber infrastructure, whether they’re building a new community or upgrading an existing building, maximizing the long-term value of their properties.

Check out these related resources:

• Babcock Ranch is working with Quantum Fiber to build the hometown of tomorrow
• Client story: Serena Rhuman faced challenges at a high-profile new community
• Tech analysis: Broadband solutions matter for multifamily prestige