# 10 Best Property Management Software for Small Businesses 2026 | Capterra > Find and compare the 2026 best Property Management software for small businesses, using our interactive tool to quickly narrow your choices based on businesses like yours. Source: https://www.capterra.com/rental-property-management-software/s/small-businesses --- # Best Property Management Software for Small Businesses in 2025 Last updated on July 18, 2025 Written by [Amita Jain](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/ajain/) Writer Edited by [Parul Sharma](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/parul-sharma/) Editor Small property managers often face unique challenges when managing rental units due to insufficient staff to share the workload. [Property management software](https://www.capterra.com/rental-property-management-software/) helps small businesses automate day-to-day administration and create a system that makes it easier to scale from five to 50 units. It puts rent collection, expense tracking, and maintenance request management all in one place, helping you work smarter. To help you find the right property management software for your small business, we'll share the top-ranked systems, the features users rate most important, and specific benefits—all backed by our research, advisors, and insights from over 4,866 recent user reviews.[\[1\]](#footnotes) ## 10 best property management software for small businesses [ Yardi Breeze ](#4107c032-c4df-4947-98d2-a840008002ea) Highly rated for reservations management 4.2 (327) [ AppFolio Property Manager ](#21e9d908-5a0c-4f19-9989-a6d200b2b406) Highly rated for tenant portal 4.5 (1888) [ DoorLoop ](#528b8b48-f234-45d7-8095-a31ce71a516e) Highest Rated 4.8 (703) [ Entrata ](#2079595b-fd35-442f-a11d-a6d200b3c1b7) Highly rated for rent tracking 4.6 (444) [ Rent Manager ](#42526a49-b4bc-4e4d-89bc-a6d200b610d3) Highly rated for customer support 4.6 (601) [ TenantCloud ](#c6fbc4d2-e6b0-4fbf-9744-a6d200b6fb5b) Highly rated for transactions history 4.3 (451) [ Innago ](#542a86da-944f-4e5b-b473-a7e10044a413) Highly rated for value for money 4.9 (502) [ Hostaway ](#22bba634-7b03-45ed-a0b6-a6d200b7d5db) Highly rated for functionality 4.8 (1524) [ ResMan ](#5ddf97cd-bbaa-47eb-ae9d-a6d200b6205d) Highly rated for ease of use 4.6 (601) [ Hostfully ](#af5347ca-4f5a-4e1a-8a3c-20718c983a46) Highly rated for online payments 4.2 (235) [Explore our full Property Management solutions](https://www.capterra.com/rental-property-management-software/) ### How we picked the software on this list All the tools listed below are featured in the 2024 Capterra Shortlist for Property Management. The listed tools have received more than 20 reviews in the past two years from small and midsize businesses, with ratings of 4 and above. Our analysis of thousands of user reviews highlights key insights about user experiences with these platforms, offering valuable feedback on functionality, ease of use, customer support, and value for money. * * * [4.8 (703)](https://www.capterra.com/p/211768/DoorLoop/reviews/) HIghest rated HIghest rated Starting Price: $69.00 Usage Based, Per Month Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Rent Tracking Based on 235 reviews User rating: RB 87% of reviewers rated it 5 stars DoorLoop is a cloud-based property management software with a range of features and functionality including accounting, leasing, rent collection, maintenance management, and more. The software is suitable for multiple use cases, including residential, commercial, HOA, and affordable housing. Among the most popular property management software for small and midsize businesses, DoorLoop is the highest rated on Capterra. It is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars based on more than 600 verified user reviews. Features Features reviewers most value **Transaction history** Reviewers appreciate DoorLoop's transaction history capabilities and rate this feature 4.7 out of 5. They find it helpful for resolving disputes, tracking payments, and generating detailed reports. Users report that it simplifies record-keeping and accounting, improving decision-making. They say it allows for easy reconciliation with QuickBooks and provides tenants with access to their payment history. Reviewers indicate that it helps in reporting financials to owners and keeping track of expenses and income efficiently. **Rent tracking** Users report that DoorLoop's rent tracking capabilities are valuable for managing multiple rental properties, rating this feature 4.5 out of 5. They find it easy to set up recurring payments, automate reminders, and monitor payment statuses in real time. Reviewers indicate that it simplifies the process of tracking overdue rents and sending notifications. They say it integrates well with bank accounts for deposits and helps in maintaining accurate records. Reviewers feel it saves time and reduces errors compared to manual tracking methods. **Property management** Reviewers give this feature a rating of 4.4 out of 5. They highlight DoorLoop's property management capabilities as comprehensive and user-friendly. They appreciate having all necessary information in one place, including leases, maintenance requests, and tenant communications. Users report that it reduces the need for multiple software tools and streamlines management tasks. They find it helpful for tracking repairs, managing tasks, and maintaining organized records. Reviewers indicate that it enhances efficiency and provides a higher level of service to tenants. Pros & Cons JL Jim L. Real Estate, 1-10 employees Used the software for: Less than 6 months "I love the feature that allows tenants to pay rent online which includes notifications for rent due, late fees, and current balances on their account." MG Michele G. Real Estate, 1-10 employees Used the software for: Less than 6 months "Doorloop sets up various zoom meetings prior to going live where they walk you through the software. If you have any questions, you shoot them an email or ask their AI assistant Gary, who has also been a great help if you need to learn how to access or do something." AR Andrew R. Real Estate, 1-10 employees Used the software for: Less than 6 months "I was also not informed about the additional fee for a merchant account necessary for rent collection, which was one of the primary reasons I purchased the software. Upon realizing the cost, I found several other services offering more features at a much lower price. When I decided to cancel the service within 60 days of starting, I was denied a refund. Despite paying for a full year, I only used the service for less than 60 days, leaving me feeling unfairly treated." Eddie B. Real Estate, 1-10 employees Used the software for: Less than 6 months "Even after two months, the payment still shows up on the vendor’s portal, and there’s no way to fix it manually." Pricing DoorLoop uses a three-tiered pricing system based on functionality and number of units. The Starter tier starts at $59 per month for 1–20 units, when billed annually and $69 per month when billed monthly. This tier includes all of Doorloop’s basic features: rent payments, tenant portal, maintenance, accounting, and more. The Pro tier starts at $119 per month for 1–20 units when billed annually ($139 when billed monthly) and includes all of the features in the Starter tier, plus advanced accounting and reporting, budgeting, calendars, additional customer support options, and more. Finally, the Premium tier starts at $169 per month for 1–20 units when billed annually and includes all of the features in the Pro tier, plus VIP support, a free website and e-signatures, unlimited users, and data storage. [Learn more about DoorLoop pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/211768/DoorLoop/pricing/) Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **Google Docs** is an online word processor which integrates with DoorLoop to allow users to create, edit, and share property-related documents. - **Google Drive** is a cloud storage provider which integrates with DoorLoop to enable the storage of tenancy and property documents online. - **Mailchimp** is an email marketing platform which integrates with DoorLoop to enable property owners to add their tenants and prospective tenants to email lists. [Learn more about DoorLoop](https://www.capterra.com/p/211768/DoorLoop/) * * * [4.9 (502)](https://www.capterra.com/p/166893/Innago/reviews/) Highly rated for value for money Highly rated for value for money Starting Price: Not provided by vendor Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Online Payments Based on 159 reviews User rating: BM 90% of reviewers rated it 5 stars Innago is a cloud-based real estate management software platform designed for small landlords. The software’s features include tenant screening, payments, financial management, communication, and maintenance requests, as well as a mobile app for ease of access. Based on our analysis of the most popular property management software for small and midsize businesses, Innago is the highest rated for value for money. It is rated 5 out of 5 stars in this category, based on more than 300 verified user reviews. Features Features reviewers most value **Rent tracking** Reviewers appreciate Innago's rent tracking capabilities and rate this feature 5 out of 5. They find the intuitive interface and real-time insights helpful for monitoring rent payments, due dates, and outstanding balances. Users report that the system sends timely invoices and reminders, reducing administrative workload. They highlight the use of modern charts and graphs to visualize rent status, making it easy to track payments and late fees. They also value the automated notifications and the ability to produce reports for tax purposes. **Lease tracking** Reviewers rate this feature 4.8 out of 5 and indicate that Innago's lease tracking capabilities are valuable for managing lease agreements. They appreciate the centralized system for storing and accessing lease documents, which simplifies tracking lease start and end dates, renewals, and other critical details. Users report that automated reminders for lease renewals and rent increases are helpful. They also find the ability to sign leases online and store them digitally convenient, reducing the need for physical paperwork and ensuring easy access for tenants. **Online payments** Users report that Innago's online payments capability simplifies rent collection, rating this feature 4.8 out of 5. They appreciate the secure and convenient options for tenants to pay electronically, including autopay and split payments. Reviewers indicate that this reduces administrative overhead and improves cash flow. They highlight the low transaction costs and the ability to choose who absorbs these costs. Some users mention that initial payment processing can be slow, but overall, they find the system enhances the tenant experience and reduces the need for in-person payments. Pros & Cons NV Nikhil V. Real Estate, Self-employed Used the software for: 6-12 months "Developing a custom lease agreement, fillable forms, e-signature, best of all this is free and makes the tracking of leases, payments, security deposit refunds, and overall financial tracking easy." XL Xiang L. Real Estate, Self-employed Used the software for: 1-2 years "Comprehensive reporting: The software provides excellent reports that make it easy to track income and expenses, making it perfect for bookkeeping and tax filing." PC Paul C. Real Estate, Self-employed Used the software for: 2+ years "The only downside is that the accounting and expense tracking features feel limited compared to other tools, so I still rely on external software for finances." Cg Cole g. Real Estate, Self-employed Used the software for: 6-12 months "The main downside is that it can feel limited once you need more advanced reporting, customization, or integrations." Pricing Innago is free for landlords and property managers. The software makes money via various charges paid by tenants and applicants, such as a cost of $30–35 for a background check and a cost of $10 for income verification. For rental payments, Innago charges tenants $2 for ACH payments and a 2.99% fee when using credit and debit cards. Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **QuickBooks Online** is a business accounting software package that integrates with Innago to export rental property income and expenses data to QuickBooks. [Learn more about Innago](https://www.capterra.com/p/166893/Innago/) * * * [4.6 (601)](https://www.capterra.com/p/135182/ResMan/reviews/) Highly rated for ease of use Highly rated for ease of use Starting Price: Not provided by vendor Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Accounting Based on 115 reviews User rating: SW 70% of reviewers rated it 5 stars ResMan is a real estate management platform that is designed for multifamily and affordable housing. The software includes functionality for a range of services: lead management and customer relationship management (CRM), payments, tenant portal, accounting, budgeting, maintenance, and more. In our analysis of the most popular property management software for small and midsize businesses, ResMan is the highest rated for ease of use. It is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in this category, based on over 400 verified user reviews. Features Features reviewers most value **Online payments** Reviewers appreciate ResMan's online payments capability, rating this feature 4.2 out of 5. They find it convenient for residents, reducing the need for physical money handling and minimizing errors. Users report that it simplifies payment tracking and ensures timely utility bill payments. However, some reviewers mention issues with system lockouts at month-end and note that not all residents utilize this feature frequently. **Accounting capabilities** Reviewers appreciate ResMan's accounting capabilities and rate this feature 3.6 out of 5. They highlight the ease of tracking prepays, delinquencies, and organizing financials. Users report that it simplifies invoicing, budget management, and financial reporting. Reviewers also value the accuracy and thoroughness of the reports. However, some mention that the software layout feels outdated and not all users utilize this aspect of ResMan. Pros & Cons TY Tammy Y. Commercial Real Estate, 1-10 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "It allows us to track activity clearly, maintain clean audit trails, control access, and report accurately without duplicating work." TB Tammy B. Real Estate, 51-200 employees Used the software for: Less than 6 months "ResMan offers quality reports and the ability to export reports to a multitude of formats, making it easy to create forms and spreadsheets." NW Nicole W. Real Estate, 51-200 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "That said, there are occasional performance issues, such as freezing when toggling between screens or tabs taking longer to load. While these delays can be frustrating at times, the platform’s strengths still outweigh its drawbacks." CR Claudia R. Real Estate, 1-10 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "It logs me out in only a few minutes even while I am working on it so this is inconvenient especially when reviewing financials which requires me long time logged into Resman." Pricing ResMan pricing is available only on request. However, the company website notes that various tiers are available for different clients: a Start tier for small businesses, a Scale tier for small to midsize organizations, and a Thrive tier for larger enterprises. In addition, ResMan sells various marketing packages, add-ons and upgrades that customers can use to promote and grow their property management business. Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **Docusign** is an electronic document signature technology that integrates with ResMan to allow digital signing of leases, applications, and other documents. - **Notifii Track** is a package management and tracking software that integrates with ResMan to notify residents when their packages have arrived. - **AvidXchange** is an accounts payable automation software that integrates with ResMan to make payments more quickly and create a centralized platform for payments. [Learn more about ResMan](https://www.capterra.com/p/135182/ResMan/) * * * [4.6 (601)](https://www.capterra.com/p/2732/Rent-Manager/reviews/) Highly rated for customer support Highly rated for customer support Starting Price: Not provided by vendor Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Rent Tracking Based on 96 reviews User rating: SC 75% of reviewers rated it 5 stars Rent Manager is a property management solution that is designed for all rental use cases—including residential, multifamily, student housing, and commercial. The platform combines features for accounting and reporting, marketing and business operations, lease management, maintenance, and more. Among the most popular property management software for SMBs, Rent Manager is the highest rated for customer service, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on over 400 verified user reviews. Rent Manager offers support via phone, email, and an online training hub. Features Features reviewers most value **Payment processing** Reviewers appreciate Rent Manager's payment processing capabilities and give this feature a rating of 4.5 out of 5. They find it easy to track and apply payments from various sources like CashApp, PayPal, and checks. Users report that the integration with payment systems such as Zego is seamless and helps them process payments efficiently. They highlight the ease of making payments to owners and the system's ability to handle large volumes of accounts.  **Rent tracking** Reviewers rate this feature 4.3 out of 5. They highlight Rent Manager's rent tracking capabilities as valuable for managing tenant payments and vacancies. They find the system's built-in reporting features helpful for generating rent rolls and tracking market rents. Users appreciate the ability to set up automatic rent increases and reminders for due dates. They report that Rent Manager helps them keep track of delinquent tenants and provides a clear overview of who has paid and who hasn't.  **Lease management** Reviewers indicate that Rent Manager's lease management capabilities are helpful for creating and managing leases efficiently, rating this feature 4.3 out of 5. They appreciate the ability to send leases and renewals directly to tenants online. Users report that the system helps them track lease expiration dates and simplifies the renewal process. They find the customization options for lease information useful, although some mention limitations for commercial properties. Pros & Cons KC Kathy C. Real Estate, 11-50 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "It allows me to see all reports in one place and allows me to mass text and email my residents easily at one time." Tehreem G. Telecommunications, 11-50 employees Used the software for: 6-12 months "It is a very capable system for managing tenants, properties, accounting, and reporting in one place, especially for larger or more complex portfolios." CS Cindy S. Real Estate, 201-500 employees Used the software for: 6-12 months "It is hard to get proper scripting to write letters and create templates, and then make them available to save directly in the guest profile if you have more than one but not everyone in your database" TB Trevor B. Real Estate, 11-50 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "There are a million options to refine a search by, but some of the more basic things are not defined/searchable." Pricing Rent Manager allows an unlimited number of users and requires a minimum of 200 units. The Basic tier ($1 per unit per month) includes the software’s fundamental features. The Plus tier ($1.75 per unit per month) includes the Basic tier functionality, as well as features such as two-way texting and sending voicemails. The Premium tier ($2.50 per unit per month) includes the Plus tier functionality, as well as features such as maintenance scheduling and video inspections. In addition, Rent Manager provides add-on services such as a call center and custom-built websites. [Learn more about Rent Manager pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/2732/Rent-Manager/pricing/) Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **Birdeye** is a reputation management software that integrates with Rent Manager to secure online reviews and solicit tenant feedback. - **AvidXchange** is an accounts payable automation software that integrates with Rent Manager to process bills and payments. - **Rainmaker** is a revenue management and profit optimization software that integrates with Rent Manager to help find the optimal pricing strategy for apartment units. [Learn more about Rent Manager](https://www.capterra.com/p/2732/Rent-Manager/) * * * [4.8 (1524)](https://www.capterra.com/p/152433/Hostaway/reviews/) Highly rated for functionality Highly rated for functionality Starting Price: Not provided by vendor Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Accounting Based on 194 reviews User rating: WF 87% of reviewers rated it 5 stars Hostaway is a software platform for short-term and vacation rentals on websites such as Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. The software includes features for managing properties and distribution channels, payment processing, guest communication, marketing, operations, and more. Based on our analysis of the most popular property management software for SMBs, Hostaway is the highest rated for functionality. It is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in this category, based on more than 1,200 verified user reviews. Features Features reviewers most value **Guest communication** Reviewers appreciate Hostaway's guest communications capabilities. They highlight the automation of routine messages, integration with Vrbo and Airbnb inboxes, and the ability to manage all communications from one dashboard. Users report that this feature saves time and improves guest satisfaction. However, they mention issues with message lag, limited customer service hours, and incomplete integrations with some channels. They find the unified inbox and automation tools particularly valuable for maintaining high guest ratings and efficient communication. **Payment processing** Users report that Hostaway's payment processing capabilities are reliable and integrate well with Stripe. They appreciate the ease of setup and timely payment processing. Reviewers indicate that the system provides detailed financial analytics and supports direct bookings. However, they mention additional fees from external providers and occasional setup issues. They find the integration with Stripe helpful but note that Stripe's fees can be high. Overall, users value the seamless payment handling and financial transparency provided by Hostaway. **Reservations management** Reviewers highlight Hostaway's reservations management capabilities for centralizing and synchronizing bookings across multiple platforms. They appreciate the ability to manage reservations from one dashboard, preventing double bookings and ensuring accurate calendar updates. Users report that this feature simplifies the management of multiple properties and channels. However, they mention occasional syncing issues and the need for manual adjustments. They find the consolidated reservation view and calendar integration particularly useful for maintaining organization and efficiency. Pros & Cons WF William F. Hospitality, Self-employed Used the software for: 1-2 years "The automation, channel management, and direct booking capabilities have helped increase revenue and reduce manual work. Once everything is set up properly, it runs smoothly and gives me confidence that my systems are dialed in." Duy N. Hospitality, 1-10 employees Used the software for: Less than 6 months "As a property management company overseeing multiple listings, we needed a system that could handle channel distribution, automation, reporting, and operational scalability — and Hostaway delivers on those fronts." Kim G. Real Estate, Self-employed Used the software for: Less than 6 months "I pay extra for the dynamic pricing ad on, and even though the calendar in Hostaway shows prices correctly, they are incorrect in Airbnb, and for some dates, they show my pricing lower than my minimum pricing." KK Kara K. Accounting, 1-10 employees Used the software for: 6-12 months "Hostaway's integration (or lack thereof) with Stripe is a big pain point for my team and I. Financial information doesn't flow through correctly for platforms like VRBO and Hopper where Stripe is used for payment processing, and this creates a lot of manual adjustments on our end." Pricing Hostaway pricing is available only on request. In addition to the core software platform, Hostaway offers add-ons such as smart locks, dynamic pricing, and insurance at an extra cost. [Learn more about Hostaway pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/152433/Hostaway/pricing/) Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **PayPal** is an online payment system for sending and receiving money that integrates with Hostaway for automated payment processing. - **Slack** is a cloud-based communication and productivity tool that integrates with Hostaway to receive real-time updates about new messages or reservations. - **Mailchimp** is a marketing automation and email marketing platform that integrates with Hostaway to create guest mailing lists and newsletters. [Learn more about Hostaway](https://www.capterra.com/p/152433/Hostaway/) * * * [4.6 (444)](https://www.capterra.com/p/20372/Entrata/reviews/) Highly rated for rent tracking Highly rated for rent tracking Starting Price: Not provided by vendor Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Online Payments Based on 150 reviews User rating: AG 66% of reviewers rated it 5 stars Entrata is a cloud-based property management software for many different types of housing, including multifamily, affordable, student, and military. The software comes with features for marketing, income verification, accounting and budgeting, leasing, facilities management, payments, and more. In our analysis of the most popular property management software for SMBs, Entrata was selected as the best for rent tracking. Entrata’s rent tracking feature allows users to view rent rolls displaying each unit’s rental income history to identify opportunities. Features Features reviewers most value **Lease tracking** Reviewers appreciate Entrata's lease tracking capabilities, rating this feature 4.4 out of 5. They highlight the ability to track the entire life cycle of a lease, including resident transfers and renewals. They find the dashboards helpful for monitoring actions and organizing leasing activities. Overall, users feel lease tracking in Entrata is user-friendly and valuable. **Document management** Reviewers indicate that Entrata's document management capabilities allow for efficient electronic record keeping and rate this feature 4.3 out of 5. They appreciate the ease of uploading, updating, and organizing documents, which helps in going paperless. Users report that documents are well-organized by date and easily accessible through the resident portal. They find it important for legal purposes and appreciate the ability to access documents remotely. However, some users mention the need for improvements in user-friendliness and document visibility within the system. **Online payments** Users give this feature a rating of 4.2 out of 5 and report that Entrata's online payments system is convenient and user-friendly. They appreciate the ability for residents to pay rent online through the resident portal, which reduces the need for physical checks. Reviewers highlight the ease of setting up accounts and tracking payments. They find the system efficient for both tenants and leasing staff. However, some users mention high fees associated with debit card payments and occasional technical issues. Overall, they feel the online payments capability is a significant convenience. Pros & Cons BM Breyden M. Real Estate, 201-500 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "The system excels in streamlining workflows like generating leases, processing renewals, and tracking payments." CG Cameo G. Real Estate, 11-50 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "I like that Entrata is an organized system to keep track of incoming leads, and that we can track all communication with prospects and residents." BM Breyden M. Real Estate, 201-500 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "Certain features, such as bulk updates or custom reporting, can be less intuitive and may require training or trial and error to fully utilize." PD Paris D. Real Estate, 1,001-5,000 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "Sometimes it feels a little over complicated to do simple things. Or find the location of the call tracker log or something of that sort. Or sometimes our text isn't delivered or received." Pricing Entrata pricing is available only on request. Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **Google Analytics 360** is a business analytics tool for large enterprises that integrates with Entrata to assess the return on investment of advertising campaigns. - **Domo** is a business intelligence and data visualization platform that integrates with Entrata to find insights in rental property data and support smarter decision-making. - **RealPage** is a property management software platform that integrates with Entrata to share rental property data between the two services. [Learn more about Entrata](https://www.capterra.com/p/20372/Entrata/) * * * [4.2 (327)](https://www.capterra.com/p/164741/Yardi-Breeze/reviews/) Highly rated for reservations management Highly rated for reservations management Starting Price: $1.00 Other, Per Month Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Rent Tracking Based on 100 reviews User rating: NR 53% of reviewers rated it 5 stars Yardi Breeze is a cloud-based rental property management software that supports multiple types of properties, including residential, commercial, affordable, and self-storage facilities. The software offers features such as marketing, leasing, rent collection, maintenance, accounting, and more. Among the most popular property management software for SMBs, Yardi Breeze was selected as the best for reservations management. Yardi Breeze provides built-in payment and reservations portals and allows direct communication with tenants via text and email. Features Features reviewers most value **Rent tracking** Reviewers appreciate Yardi Breeze's rent tracking capabilities, rating this feature 4.1 out of 5. They find it essential for managing rent collections, tracking payments, and identifying delinquencies. Users report that it simplifies budgeting and financial reporting, providing clear visibility into tenant payments. However, some reviewers mention issues with report accuracy. They say it integrates well with e-payments and offers useful delinquency reports, but note that tracking changes in rent amounts can be problematic. **Online payments** Users report that Yardi Breeze's online payments capability is convenient for tenants, allowing them to pay rent via debit or credit cards and rate this feature 3.9 out of 5. They highlight the integration with tenant ledgers, which simplifies workflows and reduces errors. Reviewers indicate that while the setup can be challenging for some tenants, the overall process is efficient. They mention limitations such as delayed processing times and restrictions on payment methods in certain regions. They appreciate the multiple payment options available and the ease of use for tenants. **Property management** Reviewers rate this feature 3.8 out of 5. They find Yardi Breeze's property management capabilities valuable for organizing and accessing tenant and property information. They appreciate the ability to track maintenance requests with photos and manage day-to-day activities. Users report that the software is easy to set up and use, with a logical workflow. They indicate that it helps in viewing property statuses and lease positions. However, some users mention bugs and limitations, such as the inability to work in multiple tabs simultaneously. Pros & Cons FF FRED F. Real Estate, 1-10 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "In addition, I also use the Tenant Delinquency report which not only shows delinquency and date of their last payment but also show their phone number and email which is a great tool for calling and emailing." MT Michelle T. Real Estate, 1-10 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "It simplifies daily property management, improves accuracy, and saves time across leasing, accounting, and maintenance tasks." ND Nicki D. Real Estate, 1-10 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "The errors and inability to perform things like deleting charges, changing transaction dates and post months, zero receipts, prepays, etc. " JS Jason S. Commercial Real Estate, 1-10 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "This is going to result in me writing the current password on a piece of paper on my desk - defeating the security purpose of a password in the first place." Pricing Yardi Breeze pricing is divided into two tiers—Breeze and Breeze Premier. Breeze includes the software’s basic features, while Breeze Premier adds advanced functionality such as CRM, invoice processing, rent control, and more.  The cost depends on the type of housing, for example, residential housing ($1 per unit per month) has a $100 minimum for Breeze and a $400 minimum for Breeze Premier, while commercial housing ($2 per unit per month) has a $200 minimum for Breeze, with pricing on request for Breeze Premier. [Learn more about Yardi Breeze pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/164741/Yardi-Breeze/pricing/) Integrations **Popular Integrations** No integrations listed. [Learn more about Yardi Breeze](https://www.capterra.com/p/164741/Yardi-Breeze/) * * * [4.3 (451)](https://www.capterra.com/p/133029/TenantCloud/reviews/) Highly rated for transactions history Highly rated for transactions history Starting Price: $15.00 Flat Rate, Per Month Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Online Payments Based on 135 reviews User rating: MM 58% of reviewers rated it 5 stars TenantCloud is a property management software application that includes features for marketing, applicant screening, leases, rent collection, accounting, reporting and analytics, and more. Based on our analysis of the most popular property management software for SMBs, TenantCloud was selected as the best for transactions history. TenantCloud software allows users to view a history of transactions, payments, bills, and more, as well as the status and schedule of recurring transactions. Features Features reviewers most value **Rent tracking** Reviewers appreciate TenantCloud's rent tracking capabilities, rating this feature 4.1 out of 5. They find it easy to see at a glance who has paid and who hasn't, with automatic reminders and late fees applied as needed. Users report that it simplifies tracking month-to-month income and generates invoices and receipts automatically. However, some reviewers indicate that reports are not user-friendly and lack detailed criteria, making tracking more difficult. **Property management** Reviewers indicate that TenantCloud's property management capabilities are comprehensive and valuable; they rate this feature 4 out of 5. They appreciate being able to manage maintenance needs, track expenses, and keep all property-related files in one place. Users report that the platform supports multi-asset management and integrates with multiple rental sites. They find it helpful for documenting repairs and upgrades, and for maintaining communication with tenants. However, some users mention that navigation can be confusing and that the software occasionally freezes or requires too many steps for certain tasks. **Tenant portal** Users give this feature a rating of 3.9 out of 5. They report that TenantCloud's tenant portal is a helpful communication tool, allowing tenants to access documents, make payments, and submit maintenance requests online. They find it convenient for after-hours communication and appreciate the ease of use on both phones and computers. However, some reviewers note that the portal can be confusing to navigate, especially for new users, and that it sometimes has bugs or slow loading times. Despite these issues, many tenants find it useful for managing their rental needs. Pros & Cons SW Stacy W. Real Estate, Self-employed Used the software for: 6-12 months "I have been using tenant Cloud for almost a year now and the software has streamlined my leasing process. Once the potential tenant has the application link it is a simple step by step process to get the answers I need to approve a potential tenant." DW Derrick W. Real Estate, 1-10 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "As soon as the platform can handle credit card reconciliation properly & build out its reporting a bit more, our CPA says we can likely ditch QuickBooks Online for any accounting features we need which would be huge." BS Ben S. Real Estate, Self-employed Used the software for: 2+ years "The transaction tracking. If I want to see the last time a person made a payment it's almost impossible to do sometimes. If I get a check from assistance that applies to multiple months trying to record that and track it within TenantCloud is nearly impossible I have to do that outside of tenantcloud for tracking purposes. " ME Maury E. Real Estate, 1-10 employees Used the software for: 6-12 months "The only thing I don’t like is the payment method to pay for the subscription, if it fails, then the whole use of the app fails, there’s not grace." Pricing TenantCloud offers multiple pricing tiers based on functionality. The Starter tier ($15.60 per month when billed annually; $17 per month when billed monthly) includes features for rental payments, maintenance, listings, and applications. The Growth tier ($29.30 per month when billed annually; $32 per month when billed monthly) includes all Starter features, plus a lease builder tool, landlord forms, and a property message board. The Pro tier ($50.40 per month when billed annually; $55 per month when billed monthly) includes all Growth features, plus tax reports, custom applications, and account reconciliation. All tiers support an unlimited number of users. [Learn more about TenantCloud pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/133029/TenantCloud/pricing/) Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **QuickBooks Online** is a business accounting software package that integrates with TenantCloud to synchronize accounting transactions. - **Google Calendar** is a scheduling and time management software that integrates with TenantCloud to keep track of reminders, deadlines and important events. - **Stripe** is an online and in-person payment processing platform that integrates with TenantCloud to accept rental payments from tenants via credit and debit card. [Learn more about TenantCloud](https://www.capterra.com/p/133029/TenantCloud/) * * * [### Hostfully](https://www.capterra.com/p/187827/Property-Management-Platform/) [4.2 (235)](https://www.capterra.com/p/187827/Property-Management-Platform/reviews/) Highly rated for online payments Highly rated for online payments [View Profile](https://www.capterra.com/p/187827/Property-Management-Platform/) Starting Price: Not provided by vendor Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Accounting Based on 31 reviews User rating: NP 57% of reviewers rated it 5 stars Hostfully is a short-term and vacation rental property management platform that also offers a digital guidebook service for guests. The software includes features for managing bookings and channels, automating payments, guest communications, dashboards and analytics, and more. In our analysis of the most popular property management software for SMBs, Hostfully was selected as the best for online payments. Hostfully supports more than 25 different payment processors, including PayPal, Stripe, and Vacation Rent Payment (VRP). Features Features reviewers most value **Reservations management** Reviewers appreciate Hostfully Property Management Platform's reservations management capabilities and rate this feature 4.3 out of 5. They report that it effectively prevents double bookings by synchronizing reservations across multiple OTAs. Users find the calendar view helpful for organizing bookings, though some wish for better pricing visibility and modification options. They indicate that the platform's automation of guest communications saves time. However, reviewers mention difficulties with managing re-bookings and the absence of a mobile app as areas needing improvement. **Payment processing** Reviewers highlight the seamless integration of Hostfully Property Management Platform's payment processing with Stripe, rating this feature 4.3 out of 5. They report that it simplifies handling payments, though some note issues with refunds and Vrbo integration. Users appreciate the ability to process direct bookings and payments, but they mention the need for better support for secure checks in Europe and ACH/e-check payments. They find the overall setup easy, though some dislike the additional 1% charge for payment processors. **Online booking** Users give this feature a rating of 4.2 out of 5. They find Hostfully Property Management Platform's Online Booking capabilities valuable for consolidating bookings from multiple channels into one interface. They appreciate the direct booking feature, which increases revenue and reduces dependency on OTAs. Reviewers indicate that automated responses enhance guest communication, though some desire more flexibility in website design and faster response times. They report that the platform effectively manages bookings across Airbnb, Vrbo, Google, and Booking.com, making it easier to handle inquiries and reservations. Pros & Cons MR Michael R. Hospitality, 1-10 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "Most of all, I love the fact that it allows us to manage multiple properties and all of our tasks, integrated with Pricelabs, seemlessly for what amounts to one night's booking per month! " TH Tony H. Hospitality, 1-10 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "We have approximately 30 properties and our team all have the mobile app, making responses to guests easy and efficient even when running around on the resort." Shevawn A. Real Estate, 1-10 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "They use A LOT of virtual asst in foreign countries, so the time of day rarely ever corresponds to the time when I have an issue that needs immediate attention." KJ Kelsey J. Real Estate, Self-employed Used the software for: 6-12 months "I can't alter a scheduled message to edit the time it sends or content, like the Airbnb platform scheduled messages (sometimes the templates end up being not applicable to that stay, so I miss being able to easily change a check out time or code without cancelling the whole message first). Since Hostfully is good about updating the platform, I could see them fixing this in the future!" Pricing Hostfully pricing is split into tiers based on functionality and number of units. The Starter tier ($119 per month) supports up to four units, with all basic features included as well as access to the Hostfully mobile app. The Pro tier ($215 per month) supports up to 11 units, including all Starter features, automated messaging, electronic signatures, a dedicated customer success manager, and more. The Pro Plus tier ($269 per month) supports up to 19 units, with the same features as the Pro tier. [Learn more about Hostfully pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/187827/Property-Management-Platform/pricing/) Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **PayPal** is an online payment system for sending and receiving money that integrates with Hostfully for automated payment processing. - **Mailchimp** is a marketing automation and email marketing platform that integrates with Hostfully to create guest mailing lists and newsletters. - **QuickBooks Online** is a business accounting software package that integrates with Hostfully to synchronize accounting transactions. [Learn more about Hostfully](https://www.capterra.com/p/187827/Property-Management-Platform/) * * * [4.5 (1888)](https://www.capterra.com/p/92228/AppFolio-Property-Manager/reviews/) Highly rated for tenant portal Highly rated for tenant portal Starting Price: Not provided by vendor Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Online Payments Based on 88 reviews User rating: KS 68% of reviewers rated it 5 stars AppFolio Property Manager streamlines and automates real estate management for properties including single-family, multifamily, student housing and commercial. The software offers features such as accounting and reporting, maintenance and work order management, communication and document management, marketing and leasing, analytics, and more. Among the most popular property management software for SMBs, AppFolio Property Manager was selected as the best for tenant portals. AppFolio provides a prebuilt portal that allows residents to pay rent or dues, create maintenance requests, and more. Features Features reviewers most value **Property management** Reviewers appreciate AppFolio Property Manager's property management capabilities, rating this feature 4.6 out of 5. They report that it effectively tracks income, expenses, maintenance, work orders, and rent updates. Users find it user-friendly and accessible for both owners and tenants. They highlight the ease of organizing properties, customizing reports, and posting vacancies online. They also value the integration of messaging, emailing, and lead management, which helps streamline daily business operations and decision-making processes. **Lease tracking** Reviewers give this feature a rating of 4.5 out of 5. They indicate that AppFolio Property Manager's lease tracking capabilities are valuable for managing renewals and new leases. They appreciate the reminders for lease renewals and the ability to access lease documents anytime. Users find it helpful for keeping lease documents organized and tracking lease expiries and move-ins on the dashboard. They also mention the ease of communicating with tenants and storing documents, which simplifies the management of large property portfolios. **Tenant portal** Users report that AppFolio Property Manager's tenant portal significantly enhances tenant and management interactions; they rate this feature 4.5 out of 5. They find it convenient for tenants to pay rent, submit maintenance requests, and access lease documents online. Reviewers highlight the portal's ability to reduce administrative workload by allowing tenants to manage their information and requests independently. They also appreciate the seamless integration with AppFolio, which improves efficiency and customer service by providing a centralized platform for all tenant-related activities. Pros & Cons SM Sam M. Real Estate, 51-200 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "Initially, AppFolio offered a user-friendly interface with features that helped streamline property management tasks like tracking maintenance requests and handling tenant communications efficiently." KS Kyle S. Real Estate, 501-1,000 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "The mobile app was mostly functional (after like 2 years) and allowed me to do almost everything I did on desktop on mobile as well." MA Mike A. Real Estate, 11-50 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "They actually knew the business side of our HOA. Since AppFolio was implemented a by the management firm a few years ago, the staff has completely lost all touch with our HOA (our condo building). " MA Mike A. Real Estate, 11-50 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "It has really crushed the personal interaction that our HOA used to have with the management firm whom we pay to over see the HOA. " Pricing AppFolio Property Manager pricing is available only by request. However, the software’s pricing is split into tiers depending on its functionality. The Core tier includes the software’s fundamental set of features, including marketing, accounting, tenant portals, communication, inventory, work order management, and more. The Plus tier includes all features in the Core tier, as well as corporate accounting, premium integrations, and enhanced customer support. Finally, the Max tier includes all features in the Plus tier, as well as leasing CRM, pricing strategies, and a dedicated customer success manager. [Learn more about AppFolio Property Manager pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/92228/AppFolio-Property-Manager/pricing/) Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **Homebase** is a smart building management system that integrates with AppFolio Property Manager to manage WiFi networks and control building access. - **Happy Property** is a property maintenance and operations software that integrates with AppFolio to make preventive maintenance and inspections more efficient. - **Knock** is a CRM platform for multifamily housing that integrates with AppFolio to provide a better customer experience and exchange data between the two services. [Learn more about AppFolio Property Manager](https://www.capterra.com/p/92228/AppFolio-Property-Manager/) * * * ## Top property management software for small businesses at a glance Vendor Highly rated Starting Price [Yardi Breeze](https://www.capterra.com/p/164741/Yardi-Breeze/)[4.2 (327)](https://www.capterra.com/p/164741/Yardi-Breeze/reviews/) Reservations management $1.00 Per Month [AppFolio Property Manager](https://www.capterra.com/p/92228/AppFolio-Property-Manager/)[4.5 (1888)](https://www.capterra.com/p/92228/AppFolio-Property-Manager/reviews/) Tenant portal Not provided by vendor [DoorLoop](https://www.capterra.com/p/211768/DoorLoop/)[4.8 (703)](https://www.capterra.com/p/211768/DoorLoop/reviews/) Highest Rated $69.00 Per Month [Entrata](https://www.capterra.com/p/20372/Entrata/)[4.6 (444)](https://www.capterra.com/p/20372/Entrata/reviews/) Rent tracking Not provided by vendor [Rent Manager](https://www.capterra.com/p/2732/Rent-Manager/)[4.6 (601)](https://www.capterra.com/p/2732/Rent-Manager/reviews/) Customer support Not provided by vendor [TenantCloud](https://www.capterra.com/p/133029/TenantCloud/)[4.3 (451)](https://www.capterra.com/p/133029/TenantCloud/reviews/) Transactions history $15.00 Per Month [Innago](https://www.capterra.com/p/166893/Innago/)[4.9 (502)](https://www.capterra.com/p/166893/Innago/reviews/) Value for money $0.00 [Hostaway](https://www.capterra.com/p/152433/Hostaway/)[4.8 (1524)](https://www.capterra.com/p/152433/Hostaway/reviews/) Functionality Not provided by vendor [ResMan](https://www.capterra.com/p/135182/ResMan/)[4.6 (601)](https://www.capterra.com/p/135182/ResMan/reviews/) Ease of use Not provided by vendor [Hostfully](https://www.capterra.com/p/187827/Property-Management-Platform/)[4.2 (235)](https://www.capterra.com/p/187827/Property-Management-Platform/reviews/) Online payments Not provided by vendor [Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/187827/Property-Management-Platform/) Explore our 315 Property Management solutions[Browse Directory](https://www.capterra.com/rental-property-management-software/) ## Our methodology To be considered for this list, products had to: - Feature in the [2024 Capterra Shortlist for Property Management](https://www.capterra.com/rental-property-management-software/shortlist/). - Meet our market definition for property management software. - Have more than 20 reviews from small and midsized businesses (SMBs) in the past two years (August 1, 2022 to August 31, 2024). We took the highest rated products in each of the listed parameters unless that product already appeared on our list, in which case we featured the next highest rated.  **Most valued features selection:** Our research team analyzed verified property management software reviews on Capterra (as of November 2024) to identify the features that users value the most in each of the listed tools. Features that received the highest rating were then included in the list. **Review excerpts selection:** Review excerpts are passages extracted from longer reviews written by verified reviewers. We obtain these excerpts by applying an algorithm that considers factors including, but not limited to, length, sentiment, topic coverage, and thematic relevance. Excerpts represent user opinion and do not represent the views of, nor constitute, an endorsement by Capterra or its affiliates. Excerpts are not edited for clarity or grammar. **Popular integrations selection:** We identified integrations from our internal database and selected products considered as “most popular.” ## What is property management software? Property management software provides a hands-off approach to running rental businesses. It helps property managers collect rent online, spot missed payments, take in maintenance requests, assign work to contractors, track cash flow from units, and automate daily operations. Many products also support property marketing and listing, tenant screening, and lease management, which are important for finding quality tenants and minimizing vacancies. Whether you’re handling five units or 50, property management tools help you become more efficient by eliminating paperwork and manual tasks, giving you the freedom to grow your portfolio without getting buried in day-to-day details. ## Importance of property management software for small businesses Small property managers have to take ownership of a variety of tasks—from rent collection and lease renewals to handling maintenance calls. Property management software helps small teams operate like a larger organization by providing built-in expertise for tasks such as tenant screening and lease management without the overhead of hiring dedicated staff for each role. These tools provide professional capabilities on a small budget. Here are other reasons why property management software is important for small businesses: - **Centralizes everything:** By centralizing all operations in one system, property management software eliminates the need for endless email chains and separate subscriptions for marketing and communication tools. This cuts costs and brings all data and workflows live in a single, organized system accessible from anywhere. - **Ensures professionalism:** By automating daily repetitive work such as rent reminders, late fee calculations, and maintenance coordination, these tools help you efficiently manage tasks that typically require multiple staff members. This allows property managers to run lean operations while maintaining professional standards. - **Reduces risk:** By ensuring consistent lease compliance, maintaining proper documentation for all tenant interactions, and creating audit trails for financial transactions, property management systems help small property managers protect their portfolios from legal and compliance risks.  - **Supports growth:** As you scale from five to 50 units, property management software ensures the core processes stay consistent and organized. So, when you grow, instead of overhauling entire operations, you can build on standardized workflows that can handle increased volume.  - **Improves financial visibility:** By bringing all financial data in one place—rent payments, maintenance costs, utility bills, and property expenses—property management software helps managers quickly spot trends such as increasing repair costs or late payment patterns.  Our research shows that 48% of tenants feel the use of digital solutions makes living in rentals more convenient, and 33% report faster and more efficient processes.[\[2\]](#footnotes) Investing in property management software helps managers become better equipped to enhance tenant satisfaction and achieve growth goals. ## Key features to look for in property management software for small businesses All property management software tools include property database, accounting, and maintenance management features, and most share a variety of common features such as tenant portal, online payments, and rent tracking. We analyzed user reviews and ratings data from small property managers to understand which features they consider most essential. Most features listed below were rated as "highly important" or "critical" by our reviewers over the past two years (as of November 3, 2024). ### Rent tracking Monitors all rental payments, including current, late, and upcoming rent. Property management software automatically flags overdue payments and maintains payment histories for each unit. This lets property managers quickly identify and address issues before they impact cash flow. **90%** of reviewers from small businesses rate this feature as highly important. ### Online payment processing Facilitates automatic rent collection, late fee calculation, and payment tracking. Tenants can set up recurring payments through a self-service tenant portal while property managers get real-time visibility into their rent collection through an intuitive interface. **86%** of reviewers from small businesses rate this feature as highly important. ### Lease management  Stores and manages all lease documents, renewal dates, and tenant information digitally. Includes automated lease renewal reminders and standardized lease templates to ensure consistency across properties. **84%** of reviewers from small businesses rate this feature as highly important. ### Accounting and comprehensive reporting tools Handles expense tracking and financial reporting. Small property managers can track rent payments and property expenses without switching between multiple systems, and generate customized financial reports. **80%** of reviewers from small businesses rate this feature as highly important. ### User-friendly interface Puts all property information on a clean and intuitive dashboard. Most property management software for small businesses provide a simplified interface that doesn't require extensive training and makes it easy to access critical functions such as rent collection, maintenance requests, and tenant communications from one screen.  ### Mobile accessibility Allows property managers to handle urgent issues, track maintenance work orders, and access property information from anywhere. Mobile apps help small teams stay responsive while managing properties on the go. ## How to choose the right property management software for your small team Most property management software is similar in many ways and is designed for portfolios of all sizes to solve basic problems such as rent collection and maintenance tracking. However, small businesses have unique needs. They need software that's easy to implement, matches their budget, and doesn't overwhelm them with complex features they won't use. The right choice of property management system for small businesses should balance core capabilities with factors such as ease of use, setup time, and cost per unit. ### 1\. Assess essential vs. nice-to-have features  Map out your daily property management tasks before comparing software options. What takes up most of your time? What causes the most headaches? For small teams, core features such as rent collection and maintenance tracking should be automated. Be wary of solutions packed with advanced features you may never use—as they often come with steeper learning curves and higher costs. Ask vendors:  - How customizable are the core features of our workflows?  - Can features be turned on or off as our needs change? - Is mobile access included, and which features work on mobile? ### 2\. Consider price and hidden costs Small business property management software typically uses per-unit pricing, but some vendors require annual contracts or minimum monthly unit commitments that might not work for your portfolio size. Look beyond the base price to understand: - How does pricing scale as you add more units? - Is there a fee for setup, such as migrating data or integrating systems? - Do you need to pay extra for additional users or customer support? - Is training included in the base price? ### 3\. Look for all-in-one systems While large property management companies may need complex integrations with separate specialized systems, small businesses benefit from all-in-one systems that eliminate the need for multiple software subscriptions. Focus on platforms that offer: - Core built-in features for accounting, payment processing, and tenant communications - Essential business tools for marketing listings, tenant screening, and lease management - Critical integrations (if needed) for connections to your existing accounting software, background check services, or e-signature tools Ask vendors about the core features included in the base plan and common property management features that typically require additional integrations (and costs, if any, for setting them up). ## Tips for implementing property management software When it comes to software implementation, have a clear plan and approach to maximize the tool's benefits. These tips can help you plan a successful property management software implementation for your small business: ### 1\. Set up role-based training plans The success of your property management system depends on how well different user groups (your staff, tenants, contractors, and possibly property owners) are able to carry out their specific tasks using software. Start by mastering your daily tasks such as rent collection and maintenance coordination. Train your key stakeholders to benefit the most from the tool. For instance, you can guide tenants through their portal and payment system, show maintenance contractors how to receive and update work orders and help property owners access their reports. Also, leverage existing vendor training resources to create simple tutorials that each group can follow independently. ### 2\. Plan your data migration carefully Your existing tenant information, lease agreements, and payment histories are critical for future day-to-day operations. Create a detailed inventory of what needs to be transferred to the new system: tenant contact information, lease terms, payment records, maintenance histories, and important documents. Work with your vendor to understand the best way to format and import this data.  ### 3\. Track progress to measure success Establish clear metrics for success to gauge the effectiveness of your property management software. Choose metrics that address your current pain points, e.g., hours spent on rent collection, and those that matter to your business the most, such as reduction in payment delays, faster maintenance resolution, or tenant satisfaction levels. Regularly review these metrics to see if the tool is improving your operations and accordingly adjust your workflows. ## The future of property management software for small businesses ### Digital tools become a must-have for modern tenants Advanced technology is influencing tenant decisions, with 73% of renters in our survey considering digital amenities when choosing a rental property.[\[2\]](#footnotes) For small property managers, this means investing in software isn't just about efficiency gains—it's about being better positioned to attract high-quality tenants. Features such as online payment and online documentation portals are the most adopted digital tools in rental properties among our surveyed tenants. As tenant expectations evolve, the use of digital tools will shift from nice-to-have to must-have amenities. Check out our deep dive into how property management software impacts tenant decisions - [Advanced Tech Can Shape Decisions For 73% Of Tenants](https://www.capterra.com/resources/boosting-tenant-experience-with-property-management-software/) ### Smart properties attract premium rents The inclusion of smart property features is becoming a key differentiator among rentals. With 31% of tenants willing to pay higher rent for properties with smart security systems and remote monitoring capabilities, small property managers can justify technology investments through increased revenue. Smart features such as energy management systems and keyless entry offer multiple benefits: they attract quality tenants, increase revenue, and improve property security. Check out our deep dive into how smart technology justifies higher rental rates for property managers - [Short-Term Rentals, Long-Term Problems—Using Tech to Address Tenant Concerns](https://www.capterra.com/resources/property-management-tools-combat-rental-prices-and-short-term-rentals/#home-security-and-smart-technology-are-desirable-property-features-that-may-justify-higher-rental-rates) ## What does property management software for small business cost? Pricing of property management software for small businesses typically ranges from $1 to $20 per unit, per month for basic functionality. Many providers set minimum unit counts or monthly spending requirements, which can push entry-level plans to [$125 per month](https://www.capterra.com/resources/property-management-software-pricing-models/). For more options with advanced capabilities, pricing can go up to $1,260 a month depending on factors such as the number of listings, tenant portal availability, and storage capacity. Here's a comparison of current pricing available for popular property management tools. “Basic” includes the product's core features, such as a property database, maintenance management, and rent collection. “Mid-tier” and “higher-end” generally have basic features plus premium features, such as a tenant portal and listing support. Vendor Pricing model Free version Free trial Basic Mid-tier  Higher-end **Buildium** Subscription/month Yes No $55 $174 $375 **AppFolio Property Manager** Subscription/month No No $280 $280-$420 $422 **DoorLoop** Subscription/month No Yes $24-$64 $114-197 $404 **Note:** Only products with publicly available pricing information were included in this comparison table. We summarized publicly available pricing sources including vendor websites as of July 2024 beginning with the lowest monthly pricing (not including annual discounts) for packages that include the core functionality for this software category. As always, your company’s specific needs may differ, and final pricing will vary. ## What is the difference between property management for small and large businesses? The biggest difference between small and large property management operations is the staff structure—small businesses often have one person handling tasks that would be spread across multiple departments in larger businesses. Large property management companies typically have dedicated teams for leasing, maintenance coordination, accounting, and tenant relations. They invest in higher-end systems with complex reporting capabilities and can afford lengthy implementation periods before they get returns. Their focus is on standardizing operations across hundreds or thousands of units under different ownership structures, spanning multiple locations. So, they need robust features for accounting, investor reporting, and portfolio-wide analytics. Small property managers, often managing five to 50 units, need to be more hands-on. They usually handle tenant screenings, maintenance calls, and rent collection themselves without specialized staff for each function. This makes all-in-one software solutions crucial for them, focusing first on essential features such as online rent collection, maintenance tracking, and tenant portals. As their portfolio grows, they can gradually adopt more advanced features such as custom reporting and owner portals. ## Common property management pitfalls small businesses need to avoid Without proper systems in place, small property managers can make costly mistakes in their operations. Here are some of the most common pitfalls to avoid: ### Relying on multiple disconnected tools Managing properties through a mix of spreadsheets, email chains, and paper records creates chaos and you risk missing critical updates and wasting time when switching between systems. Property management software brings everything into one system, ensuring you never miss a payment, maintenance request, or lease renewal. ### Poor tenant communication management Using personal phones and emails to communicate with tenants creates boundary issues and makes it difficult to maintain professional relationships.  Property management software provides a dedicated tenant portal for communication, maintaining a professional distance while ensuring timely responses to tenant inquiries. ### Chasing rent payments manually Manual rent tracking leads to missed payments, calculation errors, and hours of unnecessary work.  Rent collection and payment tracking features in property management software automate this process, flag late payments instantly, and calculate late fees accurately—eliminating both manual work and costly mistakes. ### ​​Letting maintenance issues snowball Reactive maintenance management leads to higher repair costs and unhappy tenants.  Maintenance tracking features help you manage tenant requests, schedule preventive maintenance, and keep detailed repair histories, preventing small issues from becoming expensive emergencies. What software do property managers use? Property managers typically use one of two approaches: either an all-in-one property management platform or a combination of specialized tools. All-in-one solutions handle everything from rent collection and maintenance tracking to tenant screening. Some property managers, especially those just starting out, use a mix of tools such as [accounting software](https://www.capterra.com/accounting-software/) for finances, listing websites for marketing vacancies, and [e-signature tools](https://www.capterra.com/digital-signature-software/) for leases. For small property managers with five to 50 units, an all-in-one platform usually makes more sense. It's more cost-effective than paying for multiple software subscriptions and keeps everything in one place. Can you use Excel for property management? Yes. Excel can help you maintain and track basic rent payments and tenant information, but our data shows that 73% of property managers using spreadsheets struggle with efficiency—citing difficulty calculating late fee charges, updating data, and handling tenant requests. [\[3\]](#footnotes) What is the best real estate software? The best real estate or property management software, depends on your specific needs, but according to our analysis of products with high market demand, [DoorLoop](https://www.capterra.com/p/211768/DoorLoop/) had the highest rating overall from verified reviewers on Capterra. What’s the best free property management software for small landlords? According to our analysis of products with high market demands and reviews, [Innago](https://www.capterra.com/p/166893/Innago/), [Hemlane](https://www.capterra.com/p/147198/Hemlane/), and [Smoobu](https://www.capterra.com/p/160106/Smoobu/)are highly-rated free property management software options on Capterra among small landlords with 50 with or fewer units, and are featured in[Capterra's Shortlist of Property Management Software](https://www.capterra.com/rental-property-management-software/shortlist/). It’s important to note that free versions typically limit you to basic features and only a certain number of units. When evaluating your options—consider features rated highest by small businesses such as rent tracking, online payments, and property database management. Take time to test different systems to find what works best for your properties and workflow. 1. **Capterra reviews data:** Reviews are collected from verified users for individual software products. For this report, we analyzed reviews from the past year as of the production date. [Read the complete methodology.](https://www.capterra.com/resources/proprietary-data-research/#software-buyers-guides-methodology) 2. **Capterra's 2024 Tenant Experience Survey** was conducted in June 2024 among 4,800 respondents in the U.S. (n=400), Canada (n=400), India (n=400), Brazil (n=400), Mexico (n=400), the U.K. (n=400), France (n=400), Italy (n=400), Germany (n=400), Spain (n=400), Australia (n=400), and Japan (n=400). The goal of the study was to identify the pain points tenants face and explore software solutions property managers can use to address them. Respondents were screened to currently rent their primary residence. 3. **Capterra advisor call notes:** Findings are based on data from telephonic conversations that Capterra’s advisor team had with businesses seeking project management software. For this report, we analyzed reviews from the past year as of the production date. [Read the complete methodology.](https://www.capterra.com/resources/proprietary-data-research/#software-buyers-guides-methodology) [Amita Jain](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/ajain/) Amita Jain is a senior writer for Capterra, covering finance technology with a focus on expense management and accounting solutions for small-to-midsize businesses. After completing her master’s in policy studies from King’s College London, she began her career as a journalist in New Delhi, India, where she garnered first-hand knowledge of the startup space and the education sector. She spent nearly half a decade covering high-level events hosted by the United Nations and the Government of... [Parul Sharma](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/parul-sharma/) Parul Sharma is a content editor at Capterra with expertise in curating content for various niches, including SaaS, digital marketing, and search engine optimization. With over half a decade of experience in content writing and editing, Parul has the expertise to simplify complex terms into engaging, valuable content for targeted audiences. She completed her graduation and post-graduation in English literature from Delhi University and was awarded the Dr. Asha Sahni Memorial Award for being the... 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