Wireless Technology

The explosion of cell phones, smart phones, digital networks is well known and now a part of our everyday lives.  How many people stop and think how all of this information is transferred from point "A" to point "B"?  The "network" that every cell carrier describes and explains is so superior to their competition, is used to transfer messages, phone calls, data.  The network is comprised of thousands of receivers across the world.  Each being hit thousands of times per second by your calls, emails, internet searches, data transfers, etc...  

Where are these receivers?  

These receivers can be placed in many different areas on vacant land towers, rooftops, inside buildings, flagpools, trees, etc...  Technology has helped mask the dreaded towers that are all over the country.  Also, in order to keep up with rising demand for expansive networks, carriers are looking at all different types of real estate to prevent unpopular dead zones.  While Verizon has branded the phrase, how many times have we been on a call when we ask:  Can you hear me now?  

As always, location is key to determining a cell tower viability.  That will determine if a carrier needs stronger signals for increased demand.  Also, the positioning of a building, topography and accessibility also play an important part in positioning a site.  Zoning requirements will also play a role into a cell site development.  Receiver types, aesthetic requirements, ingress/egress opportunities will be questions asking by zoning officials when allowing sites.  All landowners want these sites to be as attractive as possible not only for the cities where they are placed but prevent to prevent eyesores for the public, tenants and visitors.

Casinos, malls and high-rise office buildings in large cities are leasing their interior corridors to carriers as well.  In some cases building walls are too thick to allow signal penetration.  Therefore, the carriers need to transmit signals inside the buildings to allow customers easier communication.  These receivers are more discreet than the traditional towers or rooftop units.  Typically they are placed in the ceilings of common areas and wired between each floor.  A central signal distribution hub is used somewhere inside the building to power the interior network.  This way, all patrons in the basement to the highest floor can have the same amount of "bars" and can communicate just as effectively.

This use must not be confused with any temporary use.  While non-traditional in nature, cellular agreements are traditional leases in everything but name only.  Terms typically run for approximately 10-15 years with option periods included.  Therefore, this brings in significant revenue for a long period.  

When considering a lease, make sure you are working directly with the carrier.  There are many brokers in this business that have their own interests at heart.  Not only, will your negotiation process be much shorter, you will also be sure you have a potential site.  Brokers have been known to tie up multiple sites together to negotiate the best deal.  

Typically you can find more online by googling "Cell tower leasing".  It is a good business to be in considering the wireless community is not going away.