Community Internet as an amentity

[Logan M.]

I have two different soon a third property where I will be providing internet to the residence. 

Here are a few pros and cons:

PROS

-Can charge more via a Tech Package, this can include TV as well.

-Easy for tenants to come and go as needed

-Bulk pricing allows for you to provide internet at a lower cost per person.

-You can use the internet yourself for cameras, lights and anything else on Wifi.

CONS

-If it goes out it is your responsibility and people get crazy when they can't play xbox

-In some cases, it costs a lot to get set up since you are covering a large area.

-Coverage is your responsibility since you are providing this to all of your tenants.

-Some more rural areas don't have a good provider.

[Logan M.]

Quote from @Dave Rav:

We too have considered providing WiFi.  I do like your idea of the "tech package" with assoc. fees.

The major con that has kept us from implementing has been - management burden.  You touched on this as well 

If any problems, mgmt will be flooded with calls regarding this non-essential amenity.  People will get unhappy rather quickly.
this, plus it's one more thing to "babysit".  We prefer hands-free as much as possible (most utilities and services for us are tenant-responibility).  

These considered, not sure the potential extra profit would be worth the hassle.

 I have wondered though if there are government grants/tax credits for providing internet to low income tenants.