Why Settle? Exploring your MH community's service provider options

by Susan Knowles

Feel like there is just something missing from your relationship with the cable company?

When you first got together, everyone told you it was the right thing for you to do. And at first, things were great. He seemed perfect for you, and you were happy to have him. Sure there were issues, but he always took care of them – albeit in his own precious time – and he always apologized after. But over time, things have just grown stale.

You lie awake at night wondering if there was someone else out there better for you, who could give you something… extra. No matter how hard you try though, you just can't seem to break free…. Deep down though, you know you deserve better; you know there has to be something out there besides your current cable contract.

While this may be slightly overdramatized, sometimes long-term contracts with the cable company can feel stifling. While many large cable providers offer some revenue sharing options, or other ways to gain additional income, they can still leave you missing out on a fairly large piece of the television subscriber pie. No matter how good your contract is with the cable company, they just can't capture any additional revenue from the ever-growing ranks of the satellite television subscriber.

Since the advent of cable and satellite television delivery options, preferences have shifted slightly back and forth. (Especially since dishes are smaller, more compact versions of their giant 5'-diametered predecessors from the early 90s.) However, it's safe to say that both satellite and cable providers are going to be present for the long haul.

So, why remain stuck in an exclusive relationship with the cable company when you can play the field? Obviously, there will always be a certain amount of satellite subscribers in your property, dependent on the cost and availability of cable in your area. Why not make additional revenue from satellite subscribers as well?

There are a handful of telecommunications companies who can work with your existing satellite subscribers, register each user and generate a recurring monthly income from each subscriber. While this initially may not sound worthwhile, it can really add up over time. For example, the average MH community with 200 occupied sites could stand to gain more than $2000 each year if only 35 percent of residents are satellite subscribers. Of course, even more revenue is possible given higher rates of occupancy and subscribers.

One of the biggest concerns about satellite for residents and owners is the installation process. While it may not seem the most dangerous of tasks, installing a dish on a roof can be quite risky. Most installations require the use of a ladder or stepstool. Combine that with the tricky angles of most rooftops as well as the possibility of user error in ladder use, and it's easy to see how allowing residents to install and maintain their own individual dishes can become a huge liability.

Thankfully, many companies who handle dish registration also maintain service and installation for new subscribers. Not only do residents avoid the hassles of installation, but often they enjoy higher-quality levels of service thanks to contractual service-level agreements that can be negotiated. Overall, it's a win for both owner and resident.

So, don't let the cable company keep you tied down! Explore your other options when it comes to your MH community's satellite subscribers.

Susan Knowles, Media Relations Coordinator, Connexion Technologies. Phone 919.535.7342 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it