Access to fast, reliable fiber internet is going from a nice-to-have to a need-to-have for buyers and renters alike.
Whether you're a real estate agent or thinking about selling your own home, you know you need to do whatever it takes to get top dollar. Fixing that grout problem and improving curb appeal are important, but have you thought about how a strong, reliable fiber internet connection could boost home value?
Does fiber internet increase home value?
Yes. Access to high-speed fiber internet can make a home more attractive to buyers and may even increase its market value.
As more people work remotely, stream 4K video, attend online classes and connect smarthome devices, reliable internet has become a feature that buyers and renters expect and demand. For many buyers and renters, fiber internet is now considered seriously alongside amenities like updated kitchens, energy-efficient appliances and good schools.
Whether you're selling your own home or helping clients as a real estate agent, upgrading to fiber internet can be one of the simplest improvements you make. Unlike a kitchen remodel or bathroom renovation, connecting a home to fiber often requires little or no work from the homeowner while adding long-term value.
How much can fiber internet increase home values?
According to a study by the Fiber Broadband Association, fiber internet to the home at a speed of at least 1 Gig can increase the value by 3.1%.
For example:
- A $400,000 home could gain about $12,400 in value.
- A $500,000 home could gain about $15,500 in value.
- A $750,000 home could gain about $23,250 in value.
While every home's value depends on factors like location, local market conditions, size and overall condition, fiber internet is increasingly viewed as an investment that can improve a property's appeal.
Why do buyers and renters value fiber internet?
Fiber internet offers advantages that many homebuyers and renters actively look for, like:
- Symmetrical upload and download speeds for video calls and remote work
- Reliable performance, even with multiple connected devices
- Better support for streaming, gaming and smart home technology
- Faster speeds and a strong network that’s built to handle future internet demands
Even if fiber doesn't dramatically change a home's appraised value in every market, it can make a property more competitive, attract more potential buyers and help it stand out from similar homes.
Fiber internet is faster, more reliable internet
Fiber internet is faster than traditional DSL or copper (cable) internet. While cable internet is an old technology with asymmetrical upload and download speeds, fiber offers equally fast upload and download speeds into the multi-gig range.
Regardless of the numbers, upgrading your home to fiber nevertheless has “soft” benefits that can pay dividends.
Imagine what you can do with a fast, clear internet connection: take a class to advance your credentials or education, learn a new skill, create content, work for a remote company. Save time and energy by moving cumbersome tasks online. These advantages increase your own earning potential, not just your home’s.
High-speed internet is attractive to students and families
Swing set? Pool? Quality internet access?
Families with students of any age are going to be relying on reliable internet access for online learning, assignment downloads and uploads, virtual classrooms and more. Homes with fiber connectivity are highly desirable for families with school-age children and can help give listings a competitive edge.
High-speed internet is critical for entertainment
The popularity of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ has soared in recent years. Fiber internet provides high-definition streaming in 4K or even 8K, making the dream of a home theater that much closer to home, literally. With fiber internet, you don’t share internet “traffic” with anyone else. That means round-the-clock faster connectivity.
Property managers should invest in fiber internet
It’s not just homebuyers who are looking for properties equipped with fast, reliable fiber internet. Renters need this technology, too, especially students, young families and downsizers. Property managers will benefit from adding fiber internet wiring by attracting tenants and improving the value of individual units, too.
Fiber internet can increase property value
As we progress further into the digital age, the availability of fiber internet will continue to be an important factor in shaping property values. Homeowners, agents and multi-family property managers would do well to invest in and promote fiber connectivity to increase their competitive edge in the housing and rental market.
Ready to switch? Visit ziplyfiber.com/internet to find the plan that’s right for you.
