Research from Xfinity Communities and Parks Associates suggests that multi-dwelling units (MDUs) more than ten years old face greater Wi-Fi and other types of connectivity challenges than those that are newer.
“Scaling Connectivity for Multifamily Properties” portrays the age difference in stark terms. For instance, the researchers found that 82% of MDUs older than ten years face Wi-Fi connectivity challenges while only 13% of those newer do so.
“Robust, property-wide, connectivity is the foundation of modern multifamily living — it’s no longer optional, it’s a competitive imperative,” Xfinity Communities’ Vice President Ilan Eframian said in a press release. “By unlocking the potential of existing infrastructure and adopting cutting-edge solutions and systems, property owners can elevate their communities, enhance operational efficiency, and foster long-term loyalty with residents.”
The research found that 32% of MDUs that offer Wi-Fi report difficulties maintaining device connectivity and 30% have difficulties managing credentials.
The research positioned Wi-Fi as a challenge with a significant upside. The finding that supports the view that it is a challenge is that 69% of properties that don’t offer the service pass on it because they feel that it is a hassle. The idea that it may be worth the trouble is most MDU residents say that Wi-Fi’s availability is “very important” in their next home.
According to Parks Associates’ estimates, there are 3.56 million smart apartment residential units in the U.S. The firm estimates that there are 2.7 million smart condos, which is 17% of residential MDUs.
This is not the first time that Parks Associates weighed in on the value of smart services to the MDU sector. In July, 2023, research done in partnership with Cox Communications found that 58% of condo owners own and use smart home devices compared to 41% of all U.S. Internet-enabled households. The research found that 83% of MDU residents with access to property-provided smart home devices were satisfied with their dwelling. The satisfaction rate was 66% for those without such devices.
