By Cristy Boucher

Many of you probably took notice of the recent webinar “Paradigm Shift: Can Bulk Internet Finance Smart Buildings?” from Joshua Tree Conference Group sponsored by Cox Communications. The topic not only piqued my interest, but the well-respected panelists from Mill Creek Residential, Davis Craig, PLLC and Catalyst Innovation Lab who were set to talk. If you weren’t able to attend this informative session on whether implementing bulk Internet/Wi-Fi at your community could in fact fund your new technology initiatives, then here’s a brief glimpse into this much talked about topic.

RealtyCom has many clients we’re working with on bulk Internet and Wi-Fi implementation and enjoy talking with thought leaders and clients about their strategy in this ever-changing space.  You can find the full webinar recording and summary online at https://www.aimconf.com/blog-aim/bulk_internet.

Jeff Kok, Chief Innovation Officer and Chief Information Officer at Mill Creek Residential Trust started by reviewing the resident experience. I think we all can agree this is essential to implement any type of bulk Internet strategy – if the service provided by the owner isn’t a better-quality product, that’s not only reliable, but fast and affordable, no matter how much you try it just won’t work.

From an owner’s […]

Honestly, this article was intended to be published in March 2020 – then Covid 19 hit and the total landscape changed!  After many months of figuring out best practices, our Telecom Providers and Properties are adapting to new practices and technology, but still having fun!

Most Property Managers and telecom providers agree that property events can be a win-win.  Not only does the property benefit by hosting an activity for the residents, but they offer a resident the convenience of discussing their cable and Internet needs with knowledgeable representatives.

Telecom Providers find great value in hosting property events since it allows them more visibility with their mutual customers, a platform to roll out new services, special offers or discuss their products. It is  also an opportunity to show appreciation to their subscribers and the leasing office for their partnership.  Most importantly, Telecom Providers find that the connection with the leasing office, along with planning and participating in resident functions, can build a more open and enhanced relationship.

The best partnership is formed from an interest by both the Property Manager and Telecom Provider to share in a common goal of helping a resident find the best services and prices available, to increase the […]

By Bob Reiss

In the spirit of Halloween, we’re compiling some tips to prevent you from being spooked, bitten or harmed by your telecom contracts!  Below are some of the most challenging problems our clients face every day as they seek to purchase and operate their assets.

Technological Obsolescence – this might be the scariest issue of all! Do you have DSL service that’s outdated, RG-59 that won’t support all the new features Providers are offering?  Are your residents complaining about available internet speeds? Are there constant service tickets and calls? Does it seem like someone is always in your office and feel they overpay for services you provide? How will you retrofit the building for improved services? Who will pay for new wire, materials and construction?

These are valid questions and issues RealtyCom deals with every day – we understand our client’s main objective is to operate successful properties and there are many competing priorities.  In these situations, there are options available both with franchise operators and tertiary or internet-only providers that may resolve your issues. An individual assessment and plan must be formed to address the specific problem. We utilize our due diligence team, engineering and construction planning teams, as well […]