Seattle has one of the hottest real estate markets in the country. That is great for investors, but it also means more competition. Property managers must put their best foot forward to attract and keep tenants.
That translates to a ton of work. Fortunately, there are many tools, such as property maintenance management software, that can help. The key is finding the right one.
This article explains how to identify the best management software. The information below will help you find tools that will help streamline your property management responsibilities and create a better experience for tenants.
Identify Requirements
The first step to determining the right real estate software is understanding the particular features you need. Common attributes include:
- Lease tracking
- Maintenance and repair management
- Tenant communication
- Online rent (and other) payments portal
- Accounting and financial reporting
If you manage more than one property or unit, consider software that accommodates that. Also, think about your future needs, so that you will not need to start over with new software or programs when your business expands.
Consider Compatibility
The next step is to see if the software integrates with existing platforms and systems. These include accounting software, such as QuickBooks, as well as online payment platforms, like PayPal or ACH. If you use customer relationship or lease management systems, make sure the software integrates with those.
Seamless synchronization can help with financial or tenant record keeping. It also can produce a better experience for tenants.
Ensure Security and Regulations Compliance
Real estate professionals deal with a lot of personal and financial information. When shopping for property management software, ensure that it meets the highest level of data protection. Look for compliance with standards set by industry-regulating agencies.
Assess Features
Before purchasing software, you will want to confirm that it does what you expect it to. This will give you an idea of how well it performs and what the daily user experience is like. In general, ensure that it is user-friendly and will be more of an asset (and not a liability) to operate.
Reputable services will usually offer a demo or free trial. This lets you see if available features are suitable for your property management needs without committing to buy.
Compare Pricing
Finally, look at different pricing levels for each property maintenance management software program. Besides basic pricing and monthly subscription fees, consider any costs associated with setup and training for you and your staff.
Also, make sure you are comparing apples to apples. If you have followed the steps above, you have a clear picture of what features you need (and should pay for) and which ones you can live without.
Find Property Maintenance Management Software Near You
Now that you know how to find the best property maintenance management software, you can become more efficient and effective. Digital property tools can go a long way toward streamlining and automating projects and services.
For more than 27 years, Brink has provided the most accurate, transparent, and effective property management solutions to the Seattle area. We offer a range of services for both property owners and tenants, including access to the most innovative property maintenance software. Reach out to us today to learn more.
