A new model makes portfolio-wide internet access faster, easier, and smarter to deploy.
As the SFR market continues to expand, operators are facing a challenge that sits at the intersection of resident expectations and operational complexity: internet connectivity. Reliable internet is now seen as a basic service, on par with water or electricity. Yet for many SFR operators, deploying it efficiently across scattered sites remains a logistical hurdle.
The traditional process of delivering internet—relying on individual resident signups or negotiating one-off contracts with ISPs—is slow, inconsistent, and burdensome to scale. And although bulk programs have delivered strong results in scattered-site SFR portfolios thanks to Onboard’s industry-first approach, owners and operators are now looking for a new model, one that’s more flexible and faster to scale, while still delivering the best-in-class service that residents expect.
The Case for Simplicity
Enter a new approach: an internet delivery model designed specifically for the unique needs of institutional SFR portfolios. Rather than asking owners to navigate a maze of provider contracts, installation timelines, and resident onboarding tasks, this model flips the script.
It provides one pre-vetted agreement that spans the entire portfolio with no lengthy negotiations or provider-by-provider redlines. Owners gain access to top-tier internet service with far less friction, while residents benefit from always-on, gig-speed connectivity as soon as they move in.
Designed for Today’s SFR Landscape
Internet is no longer a luxury—it’s a leasing requirement. But the operational cost of delivering it at scale can outweigh the benefit if it’s not done smartly. Today’s operators are managing thousands of units, scattered across a large geographic area, often with lean internal teams. They need programs that can deploy fast, run reliably, and require minimal intervention.
The new model is built with that reality in mind. It’s:
- Faster to deploy – no custom negotiations required
- Simpler to manage – enrollment, support, and compliance are handled
- Flexible for scattered sites – one agreement that works across providers and footprints
- Financially beneficial – adds monthly NOI with no operational lift
A Better Resident Experience
This isn't just about owner efficiency. Residents also win. With internet live at move-in, there’s no delay, confusion, or need to coordinate installation. The experience is seamless and supports today’s digitally native renter expectations.
Why It Matters Now
In today’s high-rate, cost-conscious environment, unlocking new NOI without adding staffing or complexity is more important than ever. A turnkey internet program is one of the few value-adds left that can improve the resident experience while simultaneously generating recurring revenue.
More importantly, this model gives operators control. They’re no longer waiting on providers or dependent on local installation timelines. With one partner managing the complexity behind the scenes, SFR owners can deploy high-speed internet across their entire footprint, faster and easier than ever before.
Want to learn how this model works? Visit letsonboard.com/one-sfr to explore how SFR portfolios are simplifying operations and boosting NOI through smarter internet management.
