Technology is the third most important consideration for when selecting a multi-tenant residence, according to a survey of Comcast customers conducted by Comcast’s Xfinity Communities division, which provides network services for multi-tenant properties.
While extremely important, technology still falls behind price and location, but ahead of other considerations such as gyms, clubhouses, outdoor spaces, common areas and even the quality of schools/districts, according to the survey.
Respondents from 26 years of age and up said that fast internet speed was the most important amenity a property could offer. After speed, older residents said they were most interested in ubiquitous Wi-Fi access, while younger residents (26-35) desire more smart connected home solutions, such as lights, door locks and thermostats.
“The results of this survey reaffirmed our belief that the desire and need for smart and connected living experiences has arrived and is growing,” said Adrian Adriano, vice president of strategic initiatives at Xfinity Communities, in a prepared statement. “It’s clear that residents require the convenience smart technologies afford and that this desire is an increasingly important consideration when selecting their future communities. Real estate developers, building owners and property managers need to prepare for the impending demands on their network and provide robust technology and amenities solutions throughout their properties.”
Other key findings include:
- Those 55 years and up are most interested in having a modem that’s already installed in their new residence (55%). Interest in Wi-Fi access anywhere on the property is higher among older residents as well as those in larger properties.
- Millennial residents’ satisfaction with speeds is nearly 20 points lower than the satisfaction of seniors.
- Streaming content and entertainment services is of significant interest across all age groups and more so in larger properties, with 61% ranking it important in communities with more than 75 units as compared to 53% in smaller buildings.
