Whether you’re managing a single-family home or a growing portfolio of rental properties, the right property management software can save you hours each week and help you stay organized, profitable, and compliant. In 2025, software options for landlords and property managers continue to evolve—some built for DIY simplicity, others designed for professional-grade accounting and communication.
This article compares the 10 best rental property management software tools for 2025, with rankings based on affordability, features, scalability, support, and ease of use. Whether you’re starting with one unit or managing hundreds, there’s a platform that fits your needs.
What to Look for in Rental Property Management Software
Essential Features for Landlords and Mid-Sized Managers
Rental property software should help you:
- Collect rent online (ACH, card, or cash-based payments)
- Screen tenants with background and credit checks
- Manage leases and renewals
- Handle maintenance requests and tenant communication
Platforms like SimplifyEm check all these boxes while offering tools you can grow into.
Full Accounting and Reporting Capabilities
Some platforms stop at rent tracking. Others, like SimplifyEm, offer full general ledger accounting, income and expense reports, and tax-ready exports—ideal for mid-sized property managers who need professional reporting.
CRM and Communication Tools to Scale
As you grow, it’s critical to manage interactions with tenants, prospects, and owners. Look for built-in CRM tools to handle follow-ups, automate reminders, and centralize communication.
Customer Support That Actually Helps
Good support prevents costly mistakes. Phone, chat, and email support, like what SimplifyEm offers, is a must—especially for landlords who wear multiple hats.
Start Simple, Scale When You’re Ready
Platforms like SimplifyEm allow you to start with just the features you need today. When you’re ready to grow, you already have access to full GL accounting, CRM, and automation tools. No migration. No re-training.
Top 10 Rental Property Management Software Tools for 2025
1. SimplifyEm – Best for Landlords and Mid-Sized Managers Who Want to Scale Efficiently
Best For: Landlords and property managers with 1–500+ units
Overview: SimplifyEm is designed for both small landlords and growing property managers. You can start simple (rent tracking, reminders, screening), then scale into full CRM and general ledger accounting as your business grows.
Pros:
- Flat-rate pricing from $25/month (no per-unit fees)
- Full GL accounting, built-in CRM
- Online rent collection, late fee automation, recurring charges
- Phone, email, and chat support
- Premium features available without forced upgrades
Cons:
- No advanced marketing syndication (not critical for most)
2. AppFolio – Best for Larger Portfolios and Mixed Asset Classes
Best For: PMs managing 200+ units
Overview: AppFolio is a robust platform with strong automation and reporting. It offers advanced tools, but comes with a steeper learning curve and pricing model.
Pros:
- Strong mobile app
- Advanced automation and dashboards
- Owner portals and maintenance tracking
Cons:
- $298 minimum monthly spend
- May require onboarding support
3. Buildium – Best for Associations and Traditional Managers
Best For: Property managers overseeing residential or HOA portfolios
Pros:
- HOA tools, budgeting, and accounting
- eLeasing, resident portals
- Scalability for 50+ units
Cons:
- Per-unit pricing
- Support prioritization varies by tier
4. TurboTenant – Best Free Tool for DIY Landlords
Best For: Landlords managing 1–5 units
Pros:
- Free for landlords
- Online applications and screening
- Lease templates included
Cons:
- Monetizes tenants
- No built-in accounting
- Email-only support
5. Avail – Best for Lease Customization and Screening
Best For: Landlords who want local lease templates and tracking
Pros:
- Free tier available
- Lease builder with local clauses
- Maintenance request system
Cons:
- Basic financial tools
- Limited scalability
6. RentRedi – Best Mobile App for Small Landlords
Best For: Tech-savvy landlords with mobile-first workflows
Pros:
- Intuitive app for both landlord and tenant
- Accepts ACH, credit card, and cash via PayNearMe
Cons:
- $19.95/month (annual commitment)
- Reporting more suitable for smaller portfolios
7. TenantCloud – Best for Automation on a Budget
Best For: DIY landlords with 5–20 units
Pros:
- Free tier with optional paid upgrades
- Custom branding, invoicing, maintenance requests
Cons:
- Learning curve
- Limited support at free tier
8. DoorLoop – Best for Speed and Modern Design
Best For: Landlords who value fast UI and feature-rich software
Pros:
- Fast setup
- Full-feature dashboard (rent, maintenance, reports)
Cons:
- Per-unit pricing
- Best suited for PMs with 50+ units
9. Hemlane – Best for Hybrid Local-Remote Management
Best For: Out-of-state investors
Pros:
- Hybrid property manager coordination
- Leasing and repair coordination included
Cons:
- High pricing for premium tiers
- Niche use case
10. Rentec Direct – Best for Basic Bookkeeping and Reports
Best For: Bookkeeping-focused landlords
Pros:
- Accounting-focused interface
- Strong QuickBooks alternative
Cons:
- Less modern interface
- Traditional-style tenant portals
Comparison Table: Which Rental Software Fits Your Needs?
How to Choose the Right Property Management Software in 2025
Are You Managing 1 Property or 100?
Start with your unit count. If you’re just getting started, you want a tool that’s intuitive and easy to set up. But if you’re growing, you need a solution that includes CRM, full accounting, and multi-user permissions.
Do You Need Full Accounting or Just Rent Collection?
Rent collection is great—but eventually you’ll need GL-level accounting, owner statements, and tax reports. SimplifyEm provides this out of the box, even if you only start with 5 units.
Why SimplifyEm Works for Both New and Growing Managers
Unlike tools that lock key features behind unit minimums, SimplifyEm lets you use only what you need today—then scale to full functionality later. No painful migrations.
FAQs About Rental Property Management Software
- What is the best rental software for a small portfolio?
SimplifyEm and TurboTenant are great for 1–20 units. SimplifyEm wins if you need accounting.
- Can I scale my business with property management software?
Yes—especially with platforms like SimplifyEm and Buildium that support CRM, accounting, and automation.
- What features do mid-sized property managers need?
- General ledger accounting
- CRM and communication tracking
- Support for multiple users and properties
- How is SimplifyEm different from enterprise platforms like Yardi?
SimplifyEm offers enterprise-grade features with no per-unit pricing, ideal for growing teams who want simplicity + power.
- Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Property Management Software in 2025?
Choosing the right rental software depends on your size, goals, and need for scalability. If you’re a landlord or property manager looking for:
- Flat-rate pricing
- Ease of use<
- Full functionality when you’re ready for it
- Real human support
Then SimplifyEmis a smart choice for 2025 and beyond.
Sources:
https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/manage-your-business/finances
