HOAs, COAs, and apartment owners/managers typically negotiate rates between 50-65% below standard retail prices
Unlike retail, does not offer introductory rates that rapidly spike in Year 2
Often includes free or discounted services (e.g., installation, premium TV, equipment)
Pricing has remained relatively flat, while retail pricing continues to increase faster than inflation
Delivers Higher-Quality Services
Enhances customer satisfaction, as the managed networks deployed via bulk arrangements provide greater reliability and unique customer service amenities
Incentivizes providers to deploy fiber to the premises, including to old buildings that otherwise would be left with copper wire and DSL-era technology
The whole community benefits from any needed repairs and upgrades, not just the individual unit
Deployment of infrastructure tailored and installed to the property’s specifications, including internet-enabled smart devices designed to improve the property’s sustainability and resilience (leak detection devices and EV charging stations)
Drives Competition
By harnessing the collective bargaining power of their residents, HOAs, COAs and apartment complexes can attract offers from multiple service providers – sometimes as many as five or more – to serve their communities
The MDU market for broadband is highly competitive – 79% of MDU units have multiple ISP options
Closes the Digital Divide
Helps close the digital divide in underserved and hard-to-reach communities, including in low-income and rural areas, and for seniors living on a fixed-income
Because the property pays for the service, residents with financial issues do not need to have credit checks undertaken, provide security deposits or pay late fees
In North Carolina, the City of Charlotte’s AccessCharlotte Program provides free internet to 2,000 households within privately owned, naturally occurring affordable housing (NOAH) MDUs using funding from the CARES Act of 2020 and the American Rescue Plan Act
