Signing a bulk internet contract is a big step forward. You’ve secured better pricing, guaranteed service levels, and one of the most in-demand amenities for your residents. But once the ink is dry, the real work begins: getting residents enrolled.
For new move-ins, the process is fairly straightforward: the service can be built into the leasing flow. But what about the residents already living at the property? They may have an existing retail provider, they may be skeptical about switching, or they may simply be unaware that bulk service is now available to them.
This is where mid-lease enrollment becomes critical.
What is Mid-Lease Enrollment?
Mid-lease enrollment is the process of bringing existing residents—those already under lease—into your bulk internet program. It ensures that the program delivers on its promise for both sides:
- For residents: immediate access to faster, more affordable, more reliable internet.
- For owners/operators: revenue stability and faster ROI.
Without strong mid-lease enrollment strategies, operators risk leaving both dollars and resident goodwill on the table.
Why Mid-Lease Enrollment Matters
- Resident Flexibility: Many residents start out on retail internet but later recognize the value of bulk. Mid-lease enrollment provides a simple pathway to switch.
- Faster ROI: Every unit that gets enrolled mid-lease adds incremental NOI, instead of leaving dollars on the table until renewal.
- Operational Stability: Higher enrollment rates protect long-term revenue and reduce program risk.
The Challenges Operators Face
Owners and operators consistently cite enrollment management as the hardest part of bulk internet implementation. Common friction points include:
- Resident Awareness: Educating existing residents that a new, better option is available.
- Transition Pain: Helping residents move off retail service without feeling double-charged or inconvenienced.
- Billing Alignment: Ensuring charges begin smoothly mid-lease without creating accounting confusion.
- Staff Burden: Property managers often don’t have the bandwidth—or the expertise—to manage ongoing enrollments.
How to Get It Right
The reality is, mid-lease enrollment is not something that can be solved with a single flyer or one-time push. It requires proven processes, timing, and communication strategies that maximize adoption while minimizing disruption.
At Onboard, we’ve spent years refining mid-lease enrollment strategies that work. Our team specializes in helping operators overcome the enrollment hurdle so bulk internet programs perform as designed—from day one and throughout the entire contract term.
We don’t just help you “launch and hope.” We put systems in place to ensure your program achieves the enrollment rates it was designed for, delivering value to residents and NOI to owners.
The Bottom Line
Signing a bulk internet contract is just the first step. Mid-lease enrollment is where the program succeeds or stalls. By addressing the unique challenges of existing residents, you can unlock the full value of your investment.
And the good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone. At Onboard, we make mid-lease enrollment as simple as flipping a switch, helping you deliver the amenity residents demand while protecting the profitability your community deserves.
