The Very Best Property Management Software for Small Business in 2024

Last Updated -
August 26, 2024 19:13
Written by -
Alec Chambers

If you're managing properties and want to streamline your operations, having the best property management software is essential.

But most small business owners in the property management field don't have the budget to invest in expensive, high-end software or hire a full-time IT specialist.

That's where cost-effective and user-friendly property management software comes in: these tools simplify property management tasks without breaking the bank.

You don't need advanced technical skills or hours of training—these platforms are designed to be intuitive and manageable even for those who aren't tech-savvy. With modern features and AI-enhanced functionalities, managing tenants, properties, and maintenance requests has never been easier.

I spent several weeks rigorously testing the available property management software options for small businesses, and here are the very best for 2024.

RentCheck - Empowering Resident-Led Property Inspections

RentCheck property inspection offers a comprehensive platform designed to streamline property inspections for managers, making the process more efficient and resident-friendly.

RentCheck empowers residents to perform their own inspections, which reduces the need for property managers to physically visit the properties. This approach saves time and increases inspection frequency, helping catch issues early and avoid costly emergencies. The user-friendly interface ensures higher completion rates for resident-led inspections, enhancing overall efficiency in property management.

The tool allows for the customization of inspection templates, enabling property managers to tailor features and questions according to their needs. Inspections can be conducted offline, and reports automatically sync once the device is back online. RentCheck includes automated reminders and easy scheduling for lease and maintenance tracking, ensuring timely inspections. It seamlessly integrates with various property management software like AppFolio, Rent Manager, Zapier, Latchel, and Lead Simple, and also offers an open API for custom integrations.

RentCheck is equipped with OCR technology to capture appliance model and serial numbers from manufacturer data labels, simplifying maintenance tracking and warranty management. Property managers can dictate the number of photos required for each feature and add reference photos to guide residents during inspections. The platform supports bulk work order creation by flagging multiple issues within a single room or feature, streamlining the maintenance process. With multi-language support, RentCheck ensures ease of use for both English and Spanish-speaking residents.

While RentCheck’s exact pricing details are not explicitly listed, the platform offers customized plans tailored to the specific needs of property managers. To get an accurate quote, it is recommended to contact RentCheck directly through their support channels. RentCheck stands out as a powerful tool for modern property management, offering a user-friendly solution that improves resident satisfaction while saving time and resources.

Benefits:

  • Resident-Led Inspections: Empowers residents to perform their own inspections, saving time and increasing inspection frequency.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Easy for residents, property managers, and third-party inspectors to use, resulting in higher completion rates.
  • Customizable Inspections: Customizable inspection templates allow managers to tailor features and questions.
  • Offline Inspection Capabilities: Inspections can be conducted even in areas with poor internet connectivity.
  • Automated Reminders and Scheduling: Automated reminders and easy scheduling for lease and maintenance tracking.
  • Time-Stamped Reports: Provides efficient and legal property tracking.
  • Integration with Other Software: Seamless integration with various property management software.
  • Asset Capture and OCR Technology: Uses OCR technology for easy maintenance tracking and warranty management.
  • Photo Requirements and Reference Photos: Managers can dictate photo requirements and add reference photos.
  • Bulk Work Order Creation: Allows bulk work order creation for efficient maintenance.
  • Multi-Language Support: Available in both English and Spanish.
  • Seamless Property Configuration: Intuitive options for setting up and managing property profiles.

Simplified Pricing Info

Pricing for RentCheck is customized based on property management needs. No explicit pricing information is available on the website.

For detailed pricing, contact RentCheck directly via live chat support or by emailing hello@getrentcheck.com.

Custom plans may include features like resident-led inspections, customizable templates, offline capabilities, and integration with other software.

Package deals or scalable plans may be offered for various sizes of property management operations, potentially providing cost-effective solutions for larger-scale operations.

Buildium - Modern Property Management for Small Businesses

Buildium is a comprehensive, cloud-based property management solution designed to streamline the operations of residential and association property managers. Trusted by numerous property managers, Buildium offers an array of features to manage your properties efficiently and effectively. Key functionalities include rent cycle management with automated rent and late fee reminders, vacancy cycle management with online tenant screening, and comprehensive maintenance and work order systems. The platform also excels in communication with tenant and owner portals, detailed financial reporting, accounting features, and rental listing syndication to popular websites.

One distinguishing feature of Buildium is its detailed financial management capabilities. From full general ledger accounting to automated bank reconciliations and e-filing of 1099 forms, Buildium ensures property managers can maintain accurate and real-time financial records. The platform's vacancy management tools, including customizable online rental applications and vacancy listings syndication, enable property managers to attract prospective tenants more effectively. Additionally, the mobile app feature allows for maintenance requests and other operations to be managed on the go, ensuring real-time responsiveness.

Buildium's integration capabilities with an Open API for its Premium subscribers provide flexibility and control over business operations, enabling seamless connectivity with other applications. The platform offers three pricing plans: Essential, Growth, and Premium, starting at $55 per month, making it accessible for small to large portfolios alike. Each plan is designed to scale with your business, ensuring you have access to the features you need as your property management needs grow.

Customer support is a priority for Buildium, offering 24/7 support, onboarding, and training resources through Buildium Academy. With its robust feature set and commitment to streamlining property management tasks, Buildium stands out as a reliable and efficient tool for property managers. Whether you're managing a few units or a large portfolio, Buildium aims to ease your workload and enhance your operational efficiency.

Benefits

  • Streamlines property management tasks.
  • Enhances communication with tenants and owners.
  • Comprehensive financial management and reporting.
  • Features scalable to support growing businesses.
  • Mobile app capability for real-time task management.
  • Integration flexibility with Open API.

Simplified Pricing Info

Plans and Pricing:

  • Essential Plan: Starting at $55 per month. Core features for up to 150 units, including accounting, maintenance tracking, task management, violations tracking, online portals for stakeholders, and communication tools.
  • Growth Plan: Starting at $174 per month. Includes all Essential Plan features plus unlimited eSignatures, property inspections, and access to Analytics Hub for insights on payments, resident activities, and revenue streams. Cost per unit decreases with a higher unit count.
  • Premium Plan: Starting at $375 per month. Includes all Growth Plan features plus access to Buildium’s Open API, Priority Support, and a dedicated growth consultant. Cost per unit decreases with larger portfolios.

Additional Costs:

  • Automated EFT and credit card payments.
  • Tenant screening.
  • Document printing and mailing.
  • Discounts available with annual payments and custom onboarding required for new customers on Growth or Premium plans.
  • Priority Support: Included in Premium Plan or available for purchase with the Growth Plan.

A 14-day free trial with sample data is available without requiring a credit card, providing an opportunity to test the software before committing to a plan. For large portfolios exceeding 5,000 units or community associations, custom pricing is available through Buildium's sales team.

Streamline your property management operations with Buildium and enjoy modern, reliable, and scalable solutions designed to meet all your business needs.

TenantCloud - Streamline Your Property Management Effortlessly

TenantCloud is an all-encompassing cloud-based property management software, expertly designed to streamline daily operations for landlords, property managers, tenants, and service professionals. Trusted by thousands, TenantCloud simplifies property management through a variety of features that enhance efficiency and communication.

TenantCloud's key features include dedicated personal portals for landlords, tenants, and service professionals, enabling focused rent collection, communication, and maintenance management. Landlords can manage online rent payments, configure late fees, and sync with QuickBooks online, providing robust financial oversight. The platform also supports tenant screening with customizable rental applications and background checks, ensuring a seamless onboarding process. The software offers comprehensive listing and marketing tools, including a free custom listing website and a Leads Tracking Tool that acts as a CRM. Maintenance requests are handled efficiently, with tenants able to submit requests through their portal and landlords tracking their status. Document management is streamlined with editable landlord forms and an intuitive Lease Builder to create customized lease agreements. TenantCloud also delivers powerful reporting and analytics, including financial reports, maintenance request tracking, and two-factor authentication for heightened security. With plans ranging from a free option to scalable paid plans, TenantCloud caters to both small independent landlords and large property management firms.

Benefits:

  • Streamlines property management operations.
  • Elevates financial oversight and tenant communications.
  • Saves time on rent collection and maintenance requests.

Simplified pricing info:

Starter Plan: $15/month (annually) or $17/month (monthly).
Growth Plan: $29.30/month (annually) or $32/month (monthly).
Pro Plan: $50.40/month (annually) or $55/month (monthly).
Business Plan: Custom pricing available upon request.

Visit TenantCloud's pricing page for more detailed and updated information on their plans, or contact their sales team for a custom quote.



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https://rentredi.com/?utm_source=toolsforhumans

RentRedi - Simplified Property Management

RentRedi simplifies property management tasks for landlords, providing an all-in-one platform for efficient rental operations.

RentRedi is a comprehensive property management software designed to streamline the responsibilities of landlords in managing their rental properties. With a host of features aimed at making property management seamless and efficient, RentRedi has become a top choice for landlords looking to enhance their operations. The platform offers an array of functionalities including rent collection with flexible payment options such as ACH, credit/debit cards, and cash deposits at over 90,000 retail locations. Through the auto-pay feature and rapid payment processing, RentRedi ensures that landlords receive funds promptly. Additionally, landlords can easily track payments and export financial data seamlessly to spreadsheets or QuickBooks Online.

The tenant screening process is thorough and user-friendly, offering certified TransUnion reports that cover full credit, criminal, and eviction histories. Prospective tenants can prequalify and apply directly via the app, simplifying the application process for both parties. Maintenance management is equally efficient with the ability to submit requests through the tenant app, including video attachments, and receive categorization and status updates from landlords.

Marketing properties is straightforward with automatic syndication to Realtor.com and Zillow, custom listings, and tracking capabilities. Communication is enhanced through in-app notifications and free accounts for teammates and maintenance personnel, ensuring everyone stays informed. The platform also supports electronic lease signing and document sharing with legal digital signatures, adding another layer of convenience.

RentRedi goes beyond traditional property management tools by integrating with REI Hub for comprehensive accounting and financial reporting, offering preset transaction templates and full financial reports. The mobile app ensures that both landlords and tenants can manage their tasks on the go, facilitating remote property management, scheduling, and document storage. RentRedi also offers affordable pricing plans starting at $29.95 per month, with options for 6-month and annual subscriptions at reduced rates.

Benefits of RentRedi:

  • Streamlines property management tasks.
  • Elevates tenant communication and satisfaction.
  • Saves time on administrative processes.
  • Enhances financial tracking and reporting.
  • Simplifies marketing and property listing management.

Pricing Information:

  • Monthly Plan: $29.95 per month, renewing monthly.
  • 6-Month Plan: $20 per month, renews every 6 months, saving $120 per year.
  • Annual Plan: $12 per month, renewing annually, saving $215 per year.

All plans include features such as rent collection via mobile or web, acceptance of ACH, cash, and credit card payments, option for partial or blocked payments, multiple bank account linking, tenant screening through TransUnion, comprehensive credit, criminal, and eviction reports, prescreening questionnaire, listings on Realtor.com and Zillow, free marketing and listing page, in-app notifications, automated receipts and rent reminders, lease signing and storage, cloud file sharing, live customer support, and unlimited tenants, units, and teammate accounts.

Additional Costs:

Payment Processing Fees for Tenants: ACH/Cash Payments $1 per payment, Card Payments 3.1% of the payment plus $0.30.
Add-On Services: TransUnion Screening Reports - $39.99 one-time fee per tenant for processing the report, Rent Reporting - optional add-on for improving credit score, Premium Maintenance - available at an additional cost, specific amount not listed.
Cancellation Policy: Subscriptions can be canceled anytime without restrictions, access to the platform will be lost on the first day of the next billing cycle.

Avail - Rental Property Management

Avail offers a comprehensive property management software designed to assist landlords in managing their rental properties efficiently. Part of Realtor.com®, Avail provides an end-to-end platform addressing the challenges faced by independent landlords by offering robust tools for every step of the rental process. Trusted by landlords globally, Avail simplifies property management through the seamless integration of their numerous features.

Avail stands out with its advanced and diverse functionalities. With the Rental Listings feature, landlords can create detailed listings, including terms, amenities, and utility details, and syndicate them across multiple top rental sites like Realtor.com® and Apartments.com. The Tenant Screening tool enables comprehensive tenant background checks and income verification, while the Lease Agreements support state-specific, lawyer-reviewed templates and online signing to streamline the leasing process.

The platform’s Rent Collection feature allows for online payments with scheduled upcoming payments and FastPay, facilitating faster processing. Maintenance Tracking enables tenants to submit requests via their dashboard, while landlords can log and track repair statuses. In addition, Avail offers in-app messaging for seamless Communication between landlords and tenants and Accounting tools for income and expense management.

Avail provides two subscription options: a free Unlimited plan offering basic features and an Unlimited Plus plan at $9/unit per month, which includes advanced features like next-day rent payments and custom applications. Their security measures include 256-bit encryption and constant network monitoring, supported by excellent customer service available via email, phone, or live chat.

With pricing options starting from $5 per unit monthly for the premium plan and additional tenant screening costs, Avail remains an affordable solution for landlords looking for a reliable, user-friendly platform. Designed to simplify property management, Avail supports landlords and tenants alike, making the rental experience smoother and more efficient.

  • Rental Listings: Creation and syndication of detailed rental listings across top rental sites such as Realtor.com®, Apartments.com, Apartment List, and more with unlimited photos and customizable details.
  • Tenant Screening: Conduct comprehensive background checks, including credit history, income verification, and eviction history, and manage rental applications online.
  • Lease Agreements: State-specific, lawyer-reviewed lease templates with online signing capability and customizable options with the Unlimited Plus subscription.
  • Rent Collection: Facilitate online rent payments, schedule payments, issue late fees, and track rental income with faster payment processing through FastPay.
  • Maintenance Tracking: Submit, track, and update maintenance requests with a record of all activities, including costs, photos, and contractor information.
  • Communication: In-app messaging for seamless communication about payments, maintenance requests, lease renewals, and other rental matters.
  • Accounting and Financial Management: Track rental income and expenses, and export transactions for tax preparation and financial management.
  • Educational Resources: Access a library of articles, guides, and e-books to learn best practices and effectively manage rental properties.
  • Subscription Options: Unlimited plan (free) and Unlimited Plus plan ($9/unit per month) with premium features like next-day rent payments, waived ACH fees, and custom leases.
  • Security and Support: 256-bit encryption for data security and customer support available via email, phone, or live chat seven days a week.

Simplified pricing info:

  • Avail offers two subscription options: The Unlimited plan, which is free and includes features like syndicated rental listings, credit and criminal screening reports, state-specific leases, online rent payments, and maintenance tracking.
  • For enhanced features, the Unlimited Plus plan is available at $9 per unit per month. This includes all the features of the free plan plus premium features such as next-day rent payments, waived ACH fees, custom applications and leases, and more.
  • The platform also includes screening fees that may be covered by either the landlord or the applicant. Full background, criminal, and financial checks usually cost around $55, but this can vary slightly depending on location.
  • Additional optional fees are minimal beyond the standard subscription and screening costs, making Avail an affordable solution for independent landlords.

zInspector - A Comprehensive Property Inspection Solution for Professionals

zInspector provides a comprehensive property inspection solution specifically designed for property managers, contractors, real estate agents, and tenants. This versatile tool streamlines the inspection process, enhances collaboration, and delivers robust property and task management features.

zInspector's key features ensure seamless inspection capabilities, including fully customizable templates that guide users through each property inspection, a superior in-app camera for high-quality photo and video capture, and support for 360 photos and virtual tours. Additionally, the app allows for offline inspections, ensuring productivity remains uninterrupted without internet connectivity.

Detailed reporting and documentation are at the forefront of zInspector’s offerings. Users can generate polished, professional reports with full-resolution photo links, set up auto-reporting options to email recipients, and facilitate in-app signing of documents and inspection reports. The color-coded system helps keep inspections organized, while the property and task management features enable the efficient handling of multiple properties and side-by-side comparison of move-in and move-out inspections.

zInspector ensures secure collaboration through total account control, user roles and groups, and the ability to review inspection activities, providing accountability and streamlined communication among team members. Advanced tools such as the statistics dashboard and advanced task manager allow for the monitoring of key performance indicators and comprehensive task management.

For added convenience, zInspector includes features such as in-app measurements, tenant-completed inspections, remote signatures, and integration with accounting software like Propertyware, AppFolio, Rent Manager, or Rentec Direct. The tool is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, making it accessible and user-friendly.

zInspector offers a free plan for up to five properties and a 15-day free trial period for new users to explore its core features without needing a credit card. Various paid plans are available for users with more extensive needs or additional features. Pricing details can be obtained from their main website's pricing page.

By providing a customizable, collaborative, and paperless solution, zInspector enhances property management practices and simplifies the property inspection process, making it an essential tool for industry professionals.

Benefits

  • Streamlines the inspection process.
  • Elevates the quality of inspection reports.
  • Saves time on property and task management.

Simplified pricing info:

  • Free Trial: Users can register and use all core features free for 15 days without a credit card.
  • Free Plan: zInspector is available free of charge for up to five properties/units with the core features enabled.
  • Paid Plans: For users with more than five properties or additional features, zInspector offers various paid plans. However, the exact pricing in dollars is not explicitly listed on the provided pages. To get detailed pricing, users would need to visit the pricing page or contact zInspector directly.
  • Additional Users: Adding an additional user results in a prorated charge for the remainder of the billing period.
  • Billing: When switching from Monthly to Annual billing, the account will be first credited for the balance of the Monthly plan.
  • Device Usage: Any user logging into the zInspector app on more than two mobile devices per month will result in an additional per-user charge.

Benefits of Using Property Management Software for Small Businesses

  • Increased Efficiency: Automate routine tasks such as rent collection, maintenance requests, and lease renewals to save time and reduce administrative workload.
  • Enhanced Communication: Improve communication with tenants and owners through integrated messaging systems, ensuring timely notifications and updates.
  • Centralized Data Management: Consolidate all property-related information in one secure platform, making it easy to access leases, financial records, and tenant details.
  • Real-Time Financial Tracking: Monitor income and expenses with real-time financial reporting tools, aiding in accurate budgeting and forecasting.
  • Improved Maintenance Management: Streamline maintenance processes by tracking requests, scheduling repairs, and managing vendor relationships within the software.
  • Scalable Solutions: Support business growth with scalable features that can accommodate an increasing number of properties and tenants.
  • Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure adherence to local regulations and reduce legal risks with built-in tools for compliance management.
  • Tenant Screening: Quickly screen potential tenants with integrated background and credit check services, helping you make informed leasing decisions.
  • Customizable Reporting: Generate custom reports to gain insights into property performance, tenant turnover rates, and other critical metrics.
  • Mobile Accessibility: Manage your properties on-the-go with mobile-friendly interfaces and apps, allowing you to stay connected from anywhere.
  • Secure Data Storage: Benefit from advanced security features that protect sensitive information from unauthorized access.
  • Cost-Effective: Reduce overhead costs associated with manual processes and third-party services by consolidating functionality into one comprehensive software solution.

By choosing the best property management software for your small business in 2024, you can enjoy these benefits and more, ultimately leading to a more streamlined and profitable operation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is property management software and why do I need it for my small business?

A: Property management software is a digital solution that helps property managers and landlords oversee a variety of tasks, from tenant communications and lease management to maintenance tracking and accounting. For small businesses, this software can streamline operations, save time, and help manage properties more efficiently, ultimately improving tenant satisfaction and profitability.

Q: What are some key features to look for in property management software for small businesses?

A: Essential features to consider include tenant management, lease tracking, maintenance requests, rent collection, accounting integration, reporting and analytics, and a user-friendly interface. Cloud-based functionality and mobile access are also highly beneficial for on-the-go management.

Q: Is property management software expensive?

A: The cost varies depending on the features, scalability, and the specific needs of your business. Many providers offer tiered pricing plans or subscription-based models to suit different budgets. It's important to evaluate the cost against the potential time savings and improved efficiency the software offers.

Q: Can property management software handle both residential and commercial properties?

A: Yes, many property management software solutions are versatile and can manage both residential and commercial properties. However, it's essential to ensure that the software you choose can cater to the specific needs and complexities of the types of properties you manage.

Q: How secure is my data with property management software?

A: Reputable property management software providers prioritize data security. Look for software that offers robust security features such as data encryption, secure user authentication, regular backups, and compliance with data protection regulations. It's also a good practice to review the provider’s privacy policy and data security measures.

Q: Is it difficult to migrate my existing data to new property management software?

A: Most modern property management software solutions offer tools and support to facilitate easy data migration. This can include importing tenant information, lease agreements, and historical data. Additionally, many providers offer customer support and training to help ensure a smooth transition.

Q: Can property management software integrate with other tools and systems?

A: Yes, many property management software platforms offer integrations with other tools and systems, such as accounting software, payment gateways, CRM systems, and more. This interoperability can further streamline your workflow and enhance overall efficiency.

Q: Will I need extensive training to use property management software?

A: The level of training required depends on the complexity of the software. Many solutions are designed with user-friendly interfaces and offer comprehensive support resources, including tutorials, webinars, and customer service. Some providers also offer onboarding assistance to help you get started.

Q: How can property management software improve tenant satisfaction?

A: Property management software can enhance tenant satisfaction by providing seamless communication channels, easy online rent payment options, timely maintenance request handling, and transparent access to important documents like lease agreements. These features can lead to improved tenant engagement and retention.

Q: What are the benefits of using cloud-based property management software?

A: Cloud-based property management software offers several advantages, including remote access from any device with an internet connection, real-time updates, automatic backups, and reduced need for IT infrastructure. It also ensures that you always have the latest features and security updates.

Q: Can small businesses customize property management software to meet their specific needs?

A: Many property management software solutions offer customizable features and modules to tailor the system to your specific requirements. Customization options can include branded portals, flexible reporting tools, and configurable workflows to match your business processes.

Q: How do I choose the right property management software for my business?

A: Start by identifying your business’s specific needs and pain points. Next, research and compare different software options, considering factors like cost, features, user reviews, and customer support. Taking advantage of free trials or demos can also help you determine which solution is the best fit for your business.

Written by Alec Chambers

Hi! I'm the creator behind ToolsForHumans. My journey, ignited by an obsession with ChatGPT after witnessing the practical applications of the tool, quickly expanded to include the launch of this site and a deep dive into more than 90 AI apps.

Over the past 8 months, I've been diligently crafting use cases and producing tutorial videos with the goal of demystifying AI and making it accessible to everyone. Alongside this, I've assembled specialized business toolkits, carefully selecting the best tools specifically tailored to various professions and industries.

Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn, and if you're feeling particularly generous, giving our company page a follow. I'm always up for a chat!