Lifestyles are ever-changing and along with that, the list of amenities that a home buyer looks for in a house has changed as well. Today’s home buyers like open-concept homes. They want homes that are comfortable for entertaining. Homes with gourmet kitchens that have double ovens, center islands, quartz counters and more.
But one amenity that has become a “must-have” in homes today is high-speed internet access. Long gone are the days where a dial-up or low-speed DSL connection is adequate for today’s lifestyle. The quality, speed, and cost of internet service has become a deal-breaker for many buyers.
With more and more people working from home, streaming their television instead of over the air programming, or gaming in a multi-user environment, the need for high quality, high-speed internet is a must. In addition, the increase in popularity of in-home Wi-Fi networks that support everything from email for the family, wireless printing, home security, and video surveillance systems, Wi-Fi thermostats, smart refrigerators, more and more capacity is needed.
As little as ten years ago homeowners would be satisfied with a 1.4mbs DSL line. But today demand for 10, 20, 50 even 100mbs is common.
Here in the Phoenix metro area, homes in established areas may be served by one or more internet service providers. Typically, homebuyers may have the option to use the landline telco or cable TV provider. But not all areas have access to cable and DSL may be limited. For some properties, especially in outlying areas, other options such as point-to-point microwave or satellite may be the best option.
The cost can be a factor as well. Bundled packages that include cable TV, basic telephone and internet access can easily exceed $100 a month. When you add premium features like subscription services, hardware leases, and maintenance packages, the bill could approach $200.
It is no wonder that today one of the first questions home buyers ask is “Who is the internet provider?” It is right up there with electric, water, and natural gas. Sometimes it is more important.
Joe Domino is a Realtor® serving the Phoenix & Scottsdale metro area. You can find more great information by visiting his website at www.Scottsdale-AZHomes.com.
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