From Amenities to Expectations: On-Demand Connectivity as a CRE Necessity

Today, connectivity is as essential as electricity and running water. There was a time when it was a perk and wasn’t expected to be high speed. However, as smart building tech, hybrid work models, and data-driven operations become the norm, the demand for seamless, secure, and scalable connectivity has skyrocketed.

On-demand connectivity isn't just a tenant "nice-to-have"—it's a commercial real estate (CRE) necessity.

The Shift: Connectivity Is No Longer Optional

Modern tenants—from tech startups to law firms—expect their offices to be just as connected as their homes (if not more). And they're willing to pay for it.

According to a Comcast Business survey, 90% of commercial property owners and building managers say that access to advanced communications services, like high-speed internet and secure connectivity—is a top priority for tenants, ranking just behind price, parking, and location.

Another study by Altman Solon found that smart buildings can command up to 11.8% higher rental premiums due to features like automated building systems, energy efficiency, and—most importantly—enhanced connectivity. That’s not just an IT upgrade—it’s a competitive advantage.

Why Connectivity Matters More Than Ever

Here's what today’s tenants expect from their buildings:

  • Reliable Wi-Fi throughout the property—not just in the lobby or conference rooms.

  • Smart features like app-based access control, energy monitoring, and predictive maintenance.

  • Secure, scalable networks that support hybrid work, cloud apps, and seamless video conferencing.

If your property can't support these demands, you're not just losing tech-savvy startups—you’re losing law firms, consultancies, and finance firms too.

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From "Extra" to Expected

What was once considered a high-end amenity is now a baseline expectation. Just as Class A buildings distinguish themselves with gyms or rooftop lounges, forward-thinking properties are doing the same with digital infrastructure.

Whether you're managing an urban high-rise or repositioning a suburban office park, future-ready connectivity is no longer optional—it's strategic.

Making It Happen

To keep your buildings competitive, consider:

  • Partnering with connectivity-as-a-service (CaaS) providers.

  • Offering customizable tenant networks.

  • Marketing your property as "digitally ready"—because that's what tenants are searching for.


Final Thoughts

If you want to attract and retain high-quality tenants, it’s time to treat digital infrastructure as a core part of your property value—not an afterthought.

Ready to future-proof your property? Let’s talk about how intelligent connectivity can help your building stand out in a crowded CRE market. Contact us today to learn more about scalable, tenant-first connectivity solutions.

Let’s Build Your Digital Advantage


The bottom line? On-demand connectivity is the new curb appeal.

At OpticWise, we specialize in making buildings intelligent from the inside out—transforming connectivity from a patchwork of providers into a unified, secure, and scalable platform.

If you want to attract and retain high-quality tenants, it’s time to treat digital infrastructure as a core part of your property value—not an afterthought.

Want to future-proof your CRE portfolio and turn your building into a tenant magnet?
Let’s talk about how we can help. Contact us today to explore tailored solutions for your property.