Modern intercom systems have quickly become a common feature in apartments near Memphis and other residential areas. Essentially, it allows both the management and the tenants to have access to a wide range of communication and access controls. This includes things like two-way audio/video calling, remote lock/unlock, one-time access pins, etc. One of the established contenders in the intercom systems market is ButterflyMX. Customers typically subscribe to their services because they are relatively well-known. Although ButterflyMX is a decent option, you can further maximize your intercom system if you thoroughly plan out your decision. Specifically, it would be wise to consider compatibility, your needs, your budget, as well as other alternatives, like Swiftlane apartment intercom. In this article, we are going to break down the planning stage of buying an apartment intercom to hopefully help you when you eventually get one for your building.
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Is your building or apartment compatible?
Although modern styles of apartment intercoms are quite easy and convenient to install, there are still some things that you need to take note of. First, if your building is crammed or has a lot of walls, then it might impair the signal of all the devices when using remote or Wi-Fi connection. If you opt to integrate the entire system through wires and cables, check first if your building has provisions for the proper cable management. Second, some buildings, especially those really old ones, may not be directly compatible with modern intercom systems due to things like compromised structural integrity or outdated standards/specs. In this case, some modification or construction work may be required to make the building specs up-to-date. In such a scenario, be cautious of what sort of work is required and the time frame of the entire project. Finally, make sure that the equipment will not disrupt the access of the tenants. When upgrading your current system to a modern one, be sure that the tenants will not be inconvenienced for a long period of time. As such, it is important that you inform everyone in the building through a formal announcement.
What features do you need?
Different companies of intercom systems have added their own unique features to their products and services. However, other alternatives offer some benefits that you typically won’t find elsewhere. For example, Swiftlane includes free PMS integration, loitering detection, face unlock, and other features, which you won’t have in other intercom systems. In line with this, you need to also consider the features that you deem most essential in your operations. It would not be advisable to choose an intercom system company that could only provide you with the most basic set of functions like calls and remote unlock. Instead, look for the added benefits and premium features that the company offers. At the end of the day, these added features will make your investment a lot more cost-efficient and worthwhile.
What sort of budget are you working with?
It goes without saying that budgeting is key when it comes to any investment activity. As regards apartment intercom systems, there are multiple options right now ranging from very cheap to extremely expensive. To have a point of comparison, let’s look at ButterflyMX vs Swiftlane. The former offers their products and services starting at around $3995 and could go up as high as $6995. In contrast, Swiftlane is considered to be one of the most affordable options with packages starting as low as $1290-$1800. On top of the outright costs of installation, be sure to also consider the cost of operation and maintenance. These systems require regular checkup to make sure that it is running well and working as it should be. Thus, keep in mind the allocation of the sufficient funds to keep your intercom system in tip-top condition. Finally, some companies require you to pay subscription and service fees, which are usually paid annually. As this is a case-to-case basis, be sure to confirm with your service provider the fees that need to be paid and review the contract before finalizing on your transaction.