Tech Marches Forward
Going beyond proptech , owner-operators are upgrading resident-facing systems and devices
By Scott Sowers
The pandemic helped usher in virtual tours , contactless leasing and software galore , but emerging technology and a flood of federal funding is changing the multifamily game again . Outdoor televisions , apps that control elevator access and faster internet speeds are complemented by roof mounted solar arrays partially funded by the Inflation Reduction Act .
Savvy owner-operators are staying one step ahead of the competition by deploying gadgets and systems across a variety of fronts . “ Morgan Properties invests in technology across the board ,” said a company spokesperson . “ From multi-gig speed internet , keyless door access , smart thermostats , level two EV charging and even micro-markets to provide high-end vending options for our residents .”
Morgan sometimes leverages local partnerships to get the deal done . “ We recently added highspeed internet at an apartment community in Valparaiso , Indiana ,” said the spokesperson . “ Due to its location near a large golf course with no nearby wiring , our residents were utilizing an antiquated internet system . We were able to work together with the service provider and the city to bring in fiber optic wiring from two miles away and offer multi-gig internet .”
SMART TVS & THERMOMETERS
Venues for viewing all that highspeed content are moving outdoors . “ We have a student housing property in Gainesville , Florida , where we installed a jumbotron TV at the luxury pool lounge area and utilize keyless fob entry for all community and amenity spaces ,” said Jennifer Friend , Director of Property Management , Jacobson Equities . “ Students are particularly amenity sensitive renters .”
Jacobson and Pierce Education Properties are both using internetenabled locker systems , digital doorman for service requests and electronic rent payment options in www . aamdhq . org OCTOBER 2023 TRENDS | 27