6 resident-loved connectivity features that can boost move-in and renewal appeal

Features that boost the move-in appeal to potential residents don’t necessarily require costly renovations. Flashy things like a new sauna or state-of-the-art pickleball courts might draw excitement, but it turns out that fast, reliable, and secure internet access has the power to compel people to sign—and re-sign—leases.

According to the National Multi Housing Council: 90% of renters say high-speed internet is either a "must-have" or something they wouldn't rent without. And 87% say having connectivity available on move-in day is very important.

That’s because today's residents seek more than granite countertops and resort-like pools. They’re much more practical—and savvy. They understand how connectivity dramatically impacts their day-to-day lives and can pose some tough questions to community management:

• How fast and reliable is the internet speed here?
• How quickly can I get internet set up?
• Will my connection be secure?
• What if I need help?

For property teams, those questions can become a practical checklist for evaluating whether your community’s connectivity experience supports both move-in appeal and long-term resident satisfaction.

To your residents, Wi-Fi is a necessity just like water and electricity. When they turn on a faucet, they expect water to flow. When they turn on a light, they expect it to stay on. Utility essentials simply must continually work. Community owners and managers now recognize that the internet they offer residents shouldn’t just be fast, it also must be reliable and have usage without constraints. Tier 1 Internet Service Providers (ISPs) own and manage major network infrastructure, helping deliver stronger uptime, reliable performance, and backup routes that keep residents connected when issues occur.

For example, Quantum Fiber® from AT&T is built on a 99.9% reliable fiber network, based on network uptime or availability, and delivers ultra-fast upload and download speeds, and offers unlimited data plans.

Today’s residents are working remotely some or all the time, and streaming movies and TV series for entertainment. Kids are playing games and doing homework online. Then there are smart home devices like thermostats and door cameras that keep their homes operating. With multiple devices often running at once, residents need reliable, uninterrupted bandwidth that can keep up whether it’s a busy Saturday morning or the middle of the night.

With so many devices now in homes, residents increasingly aware of cybersecurity concerns. Choosing the right internet provider can make a significant difference. Tier 1 network providers directly monitor and deter risks at the highest level and into offering multiple layers of protection at the global network down to the Wi-Fi equipment level.

An example is the Wi-Fi 7 SmartNID and Pod by Quantum Fiber from AT&T. This advanced equipment connects to Tier 1 networks and offers app features and controls for residents to further monitor their in-home network of devices and users. It also helps protect residents from malware, viruses, and suspicious activity.

Now you can check the first two boxes:

Win residents over with unlimited Wi-Fi that fits the way they live

Offer residents peace of mind with cybersecurity backed by a Tier 1 ISP

Here is where your community can further stand out from the competition. Quantum Fiber® Connected Communities properties with a bulk or marketing agreement can expect top-quality service—with end-to-end approach from design, install and ongoing staff support. Moving can be a stressful experience. Even something as seemingly simple as scheduling an appointment to have a modem installed can mean waiting days for a technician. This is friction your residents do not welcome when they are trying to settle into a new home. Communities that already have all the necessary connectivity infrastructure in place prior to move-in can help residents settle in more quickly.

Rather than making residents wait for installation appointments, providers like Quantum Fiber pre-install fiber internet and equipment so residents can virtually activate and use their service the moment they move in.  

Additionally, the Connected Communities team provides training, marketing materials, and open-house or move-in support so property staff and leasing teams can pass along information about the property’s internet to new residents. The goal is to not only ensure residents have access to Wi-Fi upon move-in but prepare staff to present that service in a way that is compelling to prospective renters and home buyers and helps differentiate the property.

Check these additional boxes:

Pre-install modems so residents don’t waste time waiting for technicians to show

Bring an instant and easy online sign-up experience to your community

Choose an ISP with customer service for staff and residents

Consumers are asking to live sustainably. Multifamily communities often publicize their sustainability achievements, but leasing staff and managers shouldn’t forget the role played by their digital connectivity choices. A passive optimal fiber network can help reduce energy consumption and preinstalled equipment reduces truck rolls and shipments.

ISPs like Quantum Fiber from AT&T complement other environmental initiatives properties are putting in place and can help your community demonstrate its commitment to socially responsible, long-term sustainability goals.

Check this bonus box many residents appreciate:

Support sustainability with eco-friendly fiber internet

Checking the boxes on these six resident-loved connectivity features can help make your community more move-in ready—and more worthy of renewal. When internet access is tailored for modern living, your community creates a stronger first impression and a better reason to stay.