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Month: June 2024

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SKBM Signals: A PropTech Blog Written From the Field

Our PropTech blog, SKBM Signals, comes from our deeply experienced team, with expertise from survey and design to deployment and support across property types and portfolio scale.

Stop by anytime to see the latest trends in multifamily technology, field notes, use case studies, and more. We’ll also share a monthly recap in our SKBM Signals newsletter to keep you up to speed.

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    Frequently Asked Questions About the SKBM Signals PropTech Blog

    What is a PropTech blog?

    A PropTech blog is ongoing published content about property technology, covering trends, deployment guidance, and industry analysis, typically from a vendor, consultant, or media outlet in the space. The value of any PropTech blog depends on whether it’s grounded in real field experience or just aggregated industry news.

    Where can I find multifamily technology news?

    Multifamily technology news is covered by dedicated PropTech and multifamily media outlets, as well as vendor and integrator blogs like SKBM Signals, which focuses specifically on deployment experience and operator-facing guidance rather than general industry news.

    What are the latest PropTech trends?

    Current PropTech trends center on connectivity as infrastructure rather than amenity, in-unit technology as a documented rent premium, and a growing expectation that ROI claims come with sourced data rather than vendor promises. SKBM Signals covers these as they show up in real deployments.

    • What to Look for in a Multifamily WiFi Solution

      74% of renters stated that having pre-installed WiFi is important.

      By providing community WiFi, property owners and managers have the opportunity to be at the forefront of technological offerings to residents – elevating resident satisfaction and improving property value. Please note: not all WiFi providers are equal and equipped with the same tech and support capabilities, so choosing the right partner to help implement your multifamily WiFi solution is a crucial part for success. In this blog post, we will explore what requirements to look for in a potential WiFi solution, and how SKBM Smart Tech can deliver the perfect Community WiFi service that fulfills these requirements.

      Your Connection Must Be Reliable

      There’s nothing worse than trying to get work done and experiencing spotty WiFi connectivity. Imagine your work-from-home residents unable to join their daily zoom meetings or your staff members trying to send out important communications to residents getting stuck with unsent emails. When someone needs to “get it done,” there’s nothing more frustrating than inconsistent WiFi! SKBM provides a ‘lightning-speed’ WiFi service that is secure and reliable, meeting the modern demands of your residents and staff members.

      Your Billing Options Must Be Flexible:

      When it comes to billing, flexibility is key for both you and your residents! SKBM gives you options: incorporate Community WiFi services into monthly rent or split it up as a separate line item. Choose the option that better fits your and your resident’s specific needs.

      Your Infrastructure Must Be Future-Proof

      New tech can come with headaches: high implementation costs, learning curves, and hard to upkeep. Don’t invest in technology that can become ‘outdated’ as soon as the project is complete. With SKBM, you don’t have to worry about this! SKBM’s advanced fiber optic network is specifically designed to support and scale with evolving technological advancements. We believe that you should invest in the right scalable infrastructure, ensuring your investment remains valuable for years to come.

      Your Setup and Support Must Be Simplified:

      Similar to the previous point, tech implementations are often long and tedious – and getting in touch with someone from support can be a treacherous journey! SKBM offers a simplified staff and resident onboarding process, while also being available 24/7 for any technical support. Additionally, SKBM offers effortless deactivation when residents leave. Your residents and staff can download and log into an app to set up their connectivity, bypassing the need for a third-party WiFi provider or a hard installation process.

      Your Investments Must Enhance Your Property Value

      Did you know that adding robust community WiFi infrastructure can actually enhance the value of your multifamily property? SKBM can help you increase your property value and boost net operating income (NOI) due to the improved infrastructure and connectivity options. Check out our blog maximizing ROI here.

      SKBM’s Community WiFi service can help property owners provide residents and staff with seamless connectivity, while allowing you to enhance the value of your tech investments. SKBM can help your multifamily community stay connected, competitive, and future-proof in the ever-changing digital landscape!

      If you’re looking to explore community WiFi solutions, as well as other Prop Tech offerings, read our blog on choosing the right Prop Tech partner.

    • The Role of EV Charging Stations in Multifamily Communities

      About 1.6 million Electric Vehicles (EVs) were sold in the U.S. in 2023 — a 60% increase from the 1 million sold nationwide in 2022. With regulations in certain cities quickly shifting in favor of EVs. For example, all new automobiles and light trucks sold in California will be required to be zero-emission by 2035. The race is on for developers and housing complexes to offer charging stations to the growing number of tenants who seek them. Studies suggest that over 80% of EV charging happens at home – therefore, it is crucial for multifamily complexes to offer this service to residents.

      Although implementing EV stations can seem daunting, SKBM Smart Tech offers seamless and efficient solutions for property owners to accommodate residents with electric vehicles, and even unlock a potential revenue opportunity.

      Why are EV stations such an electrifying opportunity for property owners?

      Revenue Generation – By charging residents for usage or providing a subscription-based plan, property owners can unlock a new revenue stream and significantly boost their income.

      Tenant Attraction and Retention – As the surge in the ownership of electric vehicles continues to grow, providing on-site charging stations can help property owners attract and retain environmentally-conscious residents.

      Increase Property Value – Investing in EV infrastructure adds value to your property and showcases your commitment to innovation!

      Environmentally Responsible – EV charging stations are a great way to show your dedication to sustainability and that your complex is committed to playing a role in powering an eco-friendly future.

      How Can SKBM Smart Tech Help Power Your Complex’s Future?

      Unmatched Charging Stations – SKBM offers state-of-the-art charging stations that are fully integrated with advanced technology, delivering fast and reliable solutions to your residents.

      Professional Installation – SKBM’s skilled team of experts can implement an EV charging infrastructure that is customized to fit the distinct design and needs of your apartment block’s parking facilities.

      Customizable Solutions – Whether your complex is small or large, SKBM offers versatile and adaptable solutions designed to cater to your precise requirements and financial parameters.

      Seamless Integrations, Comprehensive Training, and 24/7 Support – SKBM understands that technology is more than just a one-time implementation, that is why we focus on offering you seamless, scalable solutions. In addition, we offer comprehensive training and 24/7 support provided by our team of experts.

      Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo have all announced ambitious EV sales goals by 2025. With manufacturers making electric vehicles more affordable, it’s only a matter of time until a growing number of residents start demanding property owners to implement this valuable service.

      Is your complex ready to play a role in powering the future of EVs? SKBM is here to help!

    • Benefits of Access Control Systems

      Apartment residents are 34.1% more likely to have a package stolen than the average for all home types.

      Unfortunately, package theft (or porch pirates) is only one of the many common security issues that property owners have to deal with on a daily basis. Unwanted visitors in common spaces and vandalism are all disturbances that often plague multifamily properties. Since traditional keys can be easily duplicated or stolen, it is often difficult to track who has access to your property’s common areas – like the package room.

      Fortunately, by implementing access control systems and eliminating the usage of traditional keys, property owners can limit and monitor who enters the premises and follow a digital footprint. While safety is one of the main reasons to implement an access control system, these keyless systems also allow for increased efficiency among residents, staff, and authorized visitors and vendors. 

      What are the benefits of implementing access control systems for property owners?

      Boost Community Safety – Property owners can easily follow a digital footprint of who has visited their property’s common areas. They can also remotely manage access and grant entry to vendors or emergency responders, if needed. 

      Easy Tech Stack Integration – Access control technology should integrate with your smart home and property management systems, while providing scalability and customizability.

      Increase Net Operating Income – By eliminating physical keys, you avoid the costs of re-keyings, installations, lockouts, and key replacements.

      Convenience and Efficiency – Access controls allows residents, staff, and authorized vendors and visitors to more easily access common areas without the need for traditional keys. This allows your staff to focus their attention to more pressing tasks.

      How Can SKBM Smart Tech Help Secure Your Complex?

      Seamless Integration – SKBM’s access control integrates with leading property management systems – making it easier and more efficient to manage your stack tech.

      Customize & Expand as Needed – SKBM offers an open-architecture platform that can be easily customized – this allows you to expand your services without the need for expensive hardware replacements.

      Reduce Expenses & Enhance Security – The startup costs for implementing SKBM’s hardware solutions are more cost-effective than traditional systems that require the hiring of in-house IT management.

      Comprehensive Training, and 24/7 Support – SKBM understands that technology is more than just a one-time implementation, that is why we focus on offering you seamless, scalable solutions. In addition, we offer comprehensive training and 24/7 support provided by our team of experts.

      By implementing access control systems, property owners can keep their residents, staff, and property safe. Additionally, you can omit common issues associated with traditional key systems like re-keyings and replacements. Finally, access control systems allow your staff to focus on more important tasks rather than wasting time letting visitors in the building or dealing with common key issues.

      Is your complex ready to unlock the benefits of access control? SKBM can help!

    • Elevating Multifamily Living: The Impact of Smart Apartments

      In the multifamily property management industry, trust and reliability are crucial. Ensuring that the right people are managing your property’s security can greatly alleviate concerns. SKBM Smart Tech excels in this area, particularly with our Access Control solutions. Our use of in-house contractors and dedicated installation teams provides unmatched assurance and peace of mind.

      Why Choose SKBM Smart Tech’s Access Control Solutions?

      Our Access Control system offers centralized management of all access points within your community, simplifying property management and boosting security. The key benefit is the seamless integration of real-time access and monitoring capabilities, which allows for enhanced control and simplicity.

      What differentiates our service is not just our advanced technology, but the fact that our installations are handled exclusively by SKBM Smart Tech’s internal team. This approach ensures that the individuals entering your property are thoroughly vetted, skilled, and reliable. You can rest easy knowing that our contractors are part of the SKBM family, eliminating the need to manage multiple third-party vendors or constantly verify credentials.

      Unified Team for Seamless Operations

      With SKBM Smart Tech, you benefit from a unified team that manages every aspect of the Access Control system—from initial assessment and installation to ongoing maintenance. This integrated approach eliminates the common challenges of working with disparate third-party contractors, ensuring consistent quality and adherence to SKBM’s high standards.

      Our team undergoes extensive training and aligns with SKBM’s core values, guaranteeing that every installation is executed flawlessly. This cohesive approach means you only have one point of contact, reducing administrative burdens and enhancing efficiency.

      Comprehensive Training and Support

      Our commitment to your property’s success extends beyond installation. SKBM Smart Tech offers thorough training for your staff, ensuring they are proficient in using the new systems. We provide real-time support and 24/7 technical assistance, so your team is always well-prepared to handle any issues. Effective use of advanced technology is crucial, and our support ensures that your staff can maximize the benefits of our solutions, leading to improved operations and resident satisfaction.

      Top-Notch Security and Integration

      Security is paramount for any multifamily property. By choosing SKBM Smart Tech, you ensure that your Access Control system is managed by a trusted, in-house team dedicated to maintaining high-security standards. This reduces the risk of security breaches and enhances residents’ sense of safety.

      Furthermore, our Access Control solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing systems, facilitating better data flow and operational efficiency. Should you need to transfer data between different systems, our in-house consultants are readily available to provide support and ensure smooth integration.

      Effortless Transition and White-Glove Service

      Integrating new technology can often be disruptive. However, SKBM Smart Tech’s focused communication strategy ensures a smooth transition with minimal stress. Our white-glove installation service exemplifies our commitment to convenience and professionalism, handling all technical complexities on your behalf.

      Partner with SKBM Smart Tech for Superior Access Control

      For multifamily property owners and operators, SKBM Smart Tech’s Access Control solutions offer a future where operations are streamlined, security is enhanced, and resident satisfaction is elevated. We are dedicated to providing tailored solutions backed by a reliable, expert team.

      Choosing SKBM Smart Tech means more than selecting a technology provider; it means partnering with a dedicated team committed to your property’s success. Discover how our exceptional Access Control solutions can make a difference in your property management. Contact us today to learn more.