Remote (mobile) move in move out property inspection report software?

Question

Hi all!

I have some MTR furnished units for travel nurses and the like in the Bay Area that I'm self-managing, but I may start travel nursing myself soon. I'm curious if anyone has any software recommendations that allow tenants to perform the move in/move out property inspection themselves? And if so, do you think it's reliable and/or a good idea? The turnover between my furnished units will be frequent enough that it would save me the headache of trying to find someone reliable to do them or from having to travel myself. I've done a google search but everything seems expensive or for clients with a substantial amount of units. Thanks!

Nathan Gesner · Answer

zInspector is a software I use and it has a "self inspection" feature. You can send the tenant a link, they open it, the software guides them through taking pictures and adding notes, then you receive it for review. If something is missing, you send it back for them to fill in the gaps. Once it's acceptable, you approve it.

I know some property managers that swear by it. I personally don't allow my agents to use it because I want them putting eyes on the property. It's easy for a tenant to hide something behind furniture or use creative angles. Most people are honest and most people take good care of their rental, but I still prefer it. As a property manager, I'm paid to protect the owner's interest, so I'm not taking shortcuts. Besides, I'm in a small town where most properties are within 10 minutes of the office.

If you are the owner of these properties or if you have 30-minute commutes (or more) then self-inspection may make sense. I would just warn that you really think through the process and figure out how to prevent the Tenant from cheating.