Managing rental properties today means more than collecting checks and fielding phone calls. Landlords face rising tenant expectations for convenience, transparency, and speed—especially when it comes to paying rent and handling maintenance issues. The right property management software can streamline your workflow, reduce late payments, and keep tenants satisfied, all while protecting your bottom line.
This guide breaks down the leading software solutions for landlords who want to modernize rent collection and maintenance management. Whether you own a single rental or a large portfolio, these tools offer powerful features to save you time, reduce stress, and help you operate like a pro.
1. Buildium
Buildium is a comprehensive platform designed for landlords and property managers who need robust tools for every aspect of rental management. Key features include:
- Online rent payments (ACH, credit/debit card)
- Automated late fees and payment reminders
- Maintenance request tracking with photo uploads
- Full accounting suite and financial reporting
- Tenant screening and lease management
Buildium is ideal for landlords with multiple units who want a professional, all-in-one solution. Its mobile app and customizable dashboards make it easy to stay organized on the go.
2. AppFolio
AppFolio is another top-tier property management software, popular with midsize and large portfolios. Its strengths include:
- Online rent collection with flexible payment options
- Maintenance portals for tenants and vendors
- Work order automation and status tracking
- Integrated accounting and reporting
- Mobile-friendly interface for both landlords and tenants
AppFolio’s automation features and scalability make it a favorite for landlords who want to grow their business efficiently.
3. TenantCloud
TenantCloud is a user-friendly and affordable solution tailored for independent landlords and small portfolios. Its standout features include:
- Online rent payments with ACH and card options
- Maintenance request management with photo and document uploads
- Basic accounting and expense tracking
- Tenant screening and lease templates
- Free plan available for landlords with a limited number of units
TenantCloud’s intuitive dashboard and mobile app make it easy for landlords to stay on top of payments and repairs, even if they manage just a few properties.
4. Avail
Avail is designed for small landlords who want to streamline rent collection and maintenance without a steep learning curve. Key features:
- Online rent payments with automatic reminders
- Maintenance request portal for tenants
- Customizable lease agreements and e-signatures
- Tenant screening with credit, criminal, and eviction checks
- Transparent pricing with a free basic plan
Avail is a great option for landlords who value simplicity and want a straightforward way to manage essential tasks online.
5. Rentec Direct
Rentec Direct offers a balanced set of features for landlords managing a handful of units or small apartment buildings. Highlights include:
- Online rent collection and recurring payments
- Work order management for maintenance tracking
- Accounting tools and financial statements
- Tenant screening services
- Responsive customer support
Rentec Direct’s combination of affordability and robust capabilities makes it a solid choice for landlords who want to automate payments and repairs without breaking the bank.
6. Propertyware
Propertyware is built for landlords and property managers with single-family home portfolios or scattered-site rentals. Key features include:
- Online rent payments and tenant portals
- Maintenance request automation and vendor coordination
- Customizable reporting and accounting tools
- Integrated marketing and leasing modules
- Scalable for growing portfolios
Propertyware’s flexibility and focus on single-family rentals make it a top pick for landlords who want to centralize operations and automate routine tasks.
7. Hemlane
Hemlane combines rent collection, maintenance coordination, and local agent support for landlords who want a more hands-off approach. Features include:
- Online rent collection and automated reminders
- Maintenance tracking with 24/7 repair coordination
- Tenant screening and lease management
- Local agent network for showings and inspections
- Transparent, pay-as-you-go pricing
Hemlane is ideal for landlords who want to outsource some property management responsibilities while retaining control over key decisions.
Bonus: Tech Integration Tips for Landlords
- Connect your property management software with your accounting tools (like QuickBooks) for seamless bookkeeping and tax prep.
- Enable mobile notifications so you never miss a rent payment or urgent maintenance request.
- Encourage tenants to use the portal for all payments and requests to streamline communication and keep everything documented.
- Regularly update your software to access new features and security improvements.
- Explore integrations with smart locks, security cameras, or IoT devices to enhance property security and convenience.
Leveraging technology not only saves time but also helps build trust with tenants by providing a modern, transparent rental experience.
Quick Comparison Cheat Sheet
| Software | Best For | Key Features | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buildium | Multiple units, pro landlords | Rent payments, maintenance, accounting, screening | Paid, scalable plans |
| AppFolio | Mid-large portfolios | Automation, portals, accounting, mobile | Paid, scalable plans |
| TenantCloud | Small/independent landlords | Rent payments, maintenance, free plan | Free & paid |
| Avail | Small landlords | Rent, maintenance, e-sign, screening | Free & paid |
| Rentec Direct | Small buildings | Rent, work orders, accounting | Paid |
| Propertyware | Single-family portfolios | Rent, maintenance, reporting, marketing | Paid |
| Hemlane | Hands-off landlords | Rent, maintenance, local agent support | Pay-as-you-go |
Call to Action: Let AAOL Guide Your Tech Journey
Choosing the right software can transform your rental business—making rent collection seamless and maintenance hassle-free. The American Association of Landlords (AAOL) provides members with:
- Software reviews and selection guides
- Exclusive discounts on leading property management tools
- Step-by-step setup checklists
- Best practices for tech integration and tenant communications
- Community support from experienced landlords
Don’t navigate property management tech alone. Join AAOL today at aaol.org and get the guidance, resources, and support you need to streamline operations and protect your rental income.
This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always review software terms and consult a qualified professional before making business decisions.
