At RETCON 2025, the industry’s premier event for real estate technology and innovation, leaders gathered to explore the latest trends shaping multifamily housing. While AI-driven solutions and cutting-edge tech dominated conversations, one key takeaway stood out: true success in multifamily housing starts with getting the fundamentals right.
High-end amenities like luxurious gyms and EV chargers may attract attention, but they hold little value without the tech basics: reliable connectivity, centralized tech operations, and dependable services. These form the foundation of a seamless living experience, making flashy add-ons far less impactful if the basics aren’t met.
The Importance of Connectivity as a Necessity
When discussing innovative ancillary revenue, it became clear that while the industry is captivated by new technologies, there is often a lack of focus on meeting basic resident expectations. Seamless, on-demand internet access is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Yet, property owners and management teams often overlook its role in shaping the resident experience.
With the rise of remote work, online learning, smart home automation, and streaming entertainment, high-speed internet is now a fundamental requirement. Prioritizing connectivity from day one ensures a frictionless living experience, while supporting other amenities that enhance overall resident satisfaction.
Operational Challenges and Missed Revenue Opportunities
One major pain point we found among owner-operators is operational workload required to manage bulk internet programs in-house, often leading to significant revenue loss. When bulk contracts are treated as more standard vendor agreements, i.e. waste management systems, operators may fail to recognize the operational complexities involved in delivering connectivity at scale. As a result, they miss key opportunities to optimize revenue and streamline operations.
A common pitfall is neglecting to enroll residents into a bulk program who are already mid-lease, leaving as much as 50% of potential revenue on the table. Without proper management and oversight, bulk programs may fail to generate their full financial potential. By operationalizing these programs effectively, owner-operators can capture lost revenue, enhance net operating income (NOI), and ensure long-term program success.
In today’s fluctuating market, maximizing every available revenue stream is critical. Instead of focusing solely on luxury amenities with expensive upfront and maintenance costs, operators should ensure their core tech services are prioritized. When these foundational needs are met, properties not only improve resident retention but also position themselves for seamless adoption of future innovations.
Final Thoughts
This year’s RETCON reinforced the idea that while innovation is exciting, true success in multifamily housing relies on getting the basics right. Prioritizing seamless internet access as an essential service that underpins the operations of premium, cutting-edge tech allows owners to enhance the resident experience while unlocking new revenue streams.
As the industry continues to evolve, those who focus on these foundational services will be best equipped to support future technological advancements and deliver exceptional living experiences.
