In commercial real estate, traditional assets like location and square footage have long driven value. But a new frontier is emerging — the building’s digital infrastructure.
Forward-thinking owners are discovering that network ownership isn’t just a technical upgrade; it’s a powerful lever for digital infrastructure ROI and long-term asset growth.
Why Digital Infrastructure Ownership Matters
Today’s tenants expect seamless connectivity, smart building systems, and tech-enabled amenities as baseline expectations. Owning the digital backbone — the fiber, wireless, and smart building networks — allows landlords to directly control service quality, innovate faster, and even monetize connectivity.
Research from CBRE, JLL, and McKinsey shows a clear trend: properties with superior digital capabilities achieve higher occupancy rates, command rental premiums, and experience lower tenant churn.
Simply put, commercial real estate tech is no longer optional — it’s an investment in asset value creation.
CapEx vs. OpEx Control: A Strategic Advantage
When property owners outsource network infrastructure to third-party providers, they lose control over critical systems and often face unpredictable operating expenses (OpEx).
By owning the digital infrastructure instead, landlords can:
- Capitalize infrastructure investments as CapEx, improving asset valuation
- Control upgrade cycles and service delivery
- Reduce reliance on outside vendors
- Lock in cost predictability and long-term savings
CapEx investments in digital systems today can dramatically lower OpEx burdens tomorrow — giving owners a powerful cost advantage as building tech demands accelerate.
Monetizing Infrastructure: A New Revenue Stream
Network ownership also opens up direct and indirect monetization opportunities:
- Charging tenants for premium connectivity or managed services
- Leveraging smart building systems to optimize energy and maintenance savings
- Using data insights from owned networks to drive new business models (like flexible leasing or smart tenant engagement platforms)
Rather than leaving this value on the table for third-party operators, owners who invest in their own infrastructure can directly benefit from the new digital economy of buildings.
Long-Term Cost and Competitive Advantages
Over the next decade, digital-first properties will increasingly outperform their peers.
According to McKinsey, smart building capabilities can lower operating costs by up to 30% while enhancing tenant satisfaction.
By owning the network, landlords can future-proof their buildings, respond faster to tenant tech needs, and position themselves as premium, tech-forward spaces — a major differentiator in competitive markets.
Final Thoughts
The next frontier in commercial real estate isn’t just about location — it’s about connection.
By taking ownership of your building’s digital backbone, you can unlock hidden ROI, control costs, and create new revenue streams that strengthen your asset for years to come.
Investing in digital infrastructure ownership isn’t just smart — it’s essential.
Ready to unlock the hidden ROI in your building’s digital infrastructure?
Our experts can help you develop a smart ownership strategy that drives value for years to come. Contact us today to learn more.