Tower leasing is a big topic these days.

U.S. mobile network operators, AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile, are upgrading or modifying master lease agreements with the Big 3 public tower companies, American Tower, Crown Castle and SBA Communications, as these MNOs implement their 5G network builds.

Big 3 towercos cater to MNO near- and long-term needs. But mid-tier and small tower owners and landowners often get into uncomfortable negotiations when MNOs want to locate on their tower or build a tower on their land.

What leasing terms and conditions should apply? What are appropriate lease rates? And how are these rates determined?

Ken Schmidt, President, Steel in the Air, an expert on site leasing, unpacks these issues in conversation with John Celentano, Inside Towers Business Editor.

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