Discover the top 8 property management platforms transforming multifamily operations, from streamlining rent collection to elevating resident experiences. Our expert comparison breaks down which solutions fit your portfolio size, budget, and goals—plus how integrating smart access control can maximize your ROI and future-proof your properties.
April 14, 2025
Managing a multifamily property takes more than just collecting rent and fixing leaky faucets. Today’s top operators rely on modern property management software to streamline operations, communicate with residents, and boost ROI.
At Gatewise, we work with property managers every day and know which tools truly make a difference. Here’s our take on the best property management software options available — including their pros and cons — plus tips on how to choose the right one for your portfolio.
Best Property Management Software Tools
Here’s a breakdown of the top tools for property managers in 2025 based on features, scalability, and user experience.
1. Buildium
Best for: Mid- to large-size property management companies
Key features:
Online rent collection
Maintenance and inspection tracking
Accounting and tax filing tools
Pros:
Designed specifically for property managers
Strong accounting and reporting capabilities
Reliable customer service
Cons:
Slightly dated UI
Not ideal for very small portfolios
2. AppFolio Property Manager
Best for: Larger portfolios and tech-forward teams
Key features:
AI leasing assistant
Mobile inspections and communication tools
Owner and tenant portals
Pros:
Modern interface
Automation saves time
Scales well with growing portfolios
Cons:
Higher pricing tiers
Less flexible for smaller teams
3. TenantCloud
Best for: Individual landlords and small property managers
Key features:
Free plan for up to 75 units
Online leases and rent payments
Tenant screening
Pros:
Budget-friendly (including a free tier)
Intuitive dashboard
Solid mobile functionality
Cons:
Limited advanced features
May require upgrades for scaling
4. Rentec Direct
Best for: Small to midsize property owners Key features:
Built-in accounting tools
Tenant screening and ACH rent collection
Maintenance requests tracking
Pros:
Easy to use
Transparent pricing
Helpful knowledge base
Cons:
Fewer integrations than competitors
Dated design in some areas
5. DoorLoop
Best for: New landlords and growing portfolios
Key features:
Fast onboarding
Tenant portals and reminders
Document management
Pros:
Clean interface
Good customer support
Affordable plans
Cons:
Less robust reporting features
Newer platform still adding features
6. Yardi Breeze
Best for: Enterprise and multifamily operators
Key features:
Property accounting
CRM and leasing tools
Built-in compliance modules
Pros:
Backed by one of the largest names in real estate tech
Excellent accounting and reporting
Enterprise-grade security
Cons:
Can feel complex to set up
Customer support can vary by package
7. TurboTenant
Best for: Independent landlords and part-time investors
Key features:
Free core plan
Tenant applications and background checks
Marketing and listing syndication
Pros:
Very simple setup
Ideal for landlords managing a few units
Only pay for services when needed
Cons:
Lacks robust accounting or reporting
Not designed for multifamily communities
8. ResMan
Best for: Operators managing large multifamily and affordable housing portfolios Key features:
Compliance and HUD features
Maintenance and vendor management
Customizable dashboards and workflows
Pros:
Built with multifamily in mind
Great for compliance-heavy portfolios
Detailed performance tracking
Cons:
Requires training to get up to speed
Mid- to high-tier pricing
Best Property Management Software Comparison Chart
Benefits of Property Management Software
Modern property management software delivers far more than just digital convenience. Here's how the right platform can transform your operations:
1. Enhanced Cash Flow Management
Automate rent collection with customizable payment schedules and reminders
Reduce delinquencies through early notification systems and payment tracking
Simplify security deposit management and returns
Generate financial forecasts based on historical payment data
2. Streamlined Operational Efficiency
Centralize all property documentation, leases, and communications in one secure location
Automate repetitive tasks like lease renewals, late notices, and routine communications
Standardize processes across properties for consistent management quality
Reduce paperwork and manual data entry, minimizing human error
3. Elevated Resident Experience
Provide 24/7 resident portals for payments, maintenance requests, and communications
Offer digital amenity booking and community event management
Enable digital lease signing and renewal processes
Create automated check-in points throughout the resident lifecycle
Compare pricing structures (flat fee vs. per-unit pricing vs. tiered)
Factor in implementation costs, training, and potential integration expenses
Consider the ROI timeline – how quickly will efficiency gains offset costs?
4. Evaluate User Experience
Request comprehensive demos with your actual data scenarios
Involve frontline staff in the evaluation process
Test mobile functionality, especially for maintenance and leasing teams
Consider resident-facing interfaces and ease of adoption
5. Analyze Integration Capabilities
Map out your existing technology ecosystem (accounting, access control, CRM)
Prioritize platforms with open APIs or established integration partnerships
Assess data migration complexity from your current systems
Consider future technology adoption plans and compatibility
6. Verify Support and Training Resources
Compare support availability (24/7 vs. business hours, phone vs. email)
Evaluate onboarding processes and implementation timelines
Review training resources (live, self-paced, documentation quality)
Check user community resources and peer recommendations
Pro Tip: Pair Your Property with Smart Access Control
Property management software handles operational logistics effectively, but true property modernization requires addressing physical access, a critical yet often disconnected aspect of the resident experience.
Gatewise's cloud-based access control platform bridges this gap by:
Seamless Software Integration
Synchronize resident data between your property management software and access control system
Automatically provision or revoke access rights based on lease status
Eliminate duplicate data entry and reduce administrative overhead
Create unified workflows between operational and physical access systems
Track amenity usage patterns to optimize community spaces
Monitor access patterns to improve security protocols
Generate reports on staff movements and response times
Identify unauthorized access attempts or security concerns in real-time
Integrating Gatewise with your property management software creates a truly comprehensive ecosystem that addresses both the operational and physical aspects of property management.
Final Thoughts: Building Your Property Management Technology Stack
The evolution from clipboards to comprehensive digital management represents more than just modernization—it's a fundamental shift in how properties are operated, marketed, and experienced by residents.
The most successful property managers in 2025 are those who view technology not as individual tools but as an integrated ecosystem. Your property management software forms the operational backbone, while complementary systems like Gatewise's access control platform extend this foundation into the physical experience of your property.
When selecting your technology partners, consider:
Long-term scalability as your portfolio grows or diversifies
Adaptability to evolving resident expectations and market conditions
Return on investment through both cost savings and revenue enhancement
Vendor stability and commitment to ongoing platform development
By thoughtfully building your property management technology stack with integrated, purpose-built solutions, you'll create operational efficiencies that translate directly to improved NOI while delivering the modern, frictionless experience that today's residents demand.
Ready to explore how smart access control can complement your property management software? Contact Gatewise today for a personalized consultation on elevating your property's access experience.