10 things property owners can do to attract and secure a wireless lease

Property owners looking to attract and secure a wireless lease for cell site deployment, there are several proactive steps you can take. Here are ten suggestions:

Understand the Market: Educate yourself on the wireless industry and what carriers and tower companies are looking for in a cell site. This includes understanding the technology, coverage needs, and the specific requirements carriers have for cell sites.

Site Promotion: Make the availability of your property known to wireless carriers and tower companies. You can do this by listing your property on industry-specific sites or directly contacting the real estate departments of wireless carriers.

Infrastructure Readiness: Ensure your property has the necessary infrastructure or the ability to support infrastructure, such as access to power and utilities, which are critical for cell site operation. Most crucial in this area is access to high speed fiber internet that is now essential for any new cell tower placement.

Zoning and Permitting: Familiarize yourself with local zoning and permitting processes. Having a site that is pre-zoned for wireless use, or even better, having a pre-approved permit for a cell site can be a major advantage.

Ease of Access: Make sure your property has good access for construction and maintenance. Carriers prefer sites that are easily accessible for their crews. New tower sites will require lifts, cranes and other heavy equipment to install tower apparatus.

Minimal Encumbrances: Clear your property of potential encumbrances that could impact a wireless lease. This includes resolving any legal disputes or liens that might complicate the lease agreement. If you have a loan on your property, you will need to confirm your lender will agree to sign a non-disturbance agreement.

Professional Representation: Consider hiring a consultant or attorney who specializes in wireless leases to negotiate on your behalf. A qualified consultant will have access to the latest lease rates, terms and trends that can help make your property more attractive to potential lessees by crafting favorable lease terms.

Competitive Pricing: Your lease consultant can determine a competitive lease rate based on the type of site, location and market rates but be prepared to negotiate. The carriers typical want to base starting terms between $1,000-$2,000 per month with 2-3% annual escalator so knowing the current market rates for cell site leases in your area is essential.

Flexible Lease Terms: Be flexible with lease terms to accommodate the needs of the wireless carrier or tower company, such as allowing for technology upgrades and subleasing. That said, it’s important you know the true value of your site location before making unneeded concession’s.

Marketing Package: Develop a professional marketing package for your property that includes photos, maps, a description of the site, and any other relevant details like topography, height above average terrain (HAAT), and proximity to utilities.

Securing a wireless lease can be competitive, and it's important to position your property as an optimal choice. Highlighting the features and benefits of your site, being prepared, and understanding the needs of the wireless carriers and tower companies can significantly increase your chances of securing a lease.