I'm ready to rent out to tenants. What is the best software to use?

Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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I'm ready to rent out to tenants. What is the best software to use?

Lou Burnett
Member since 2021 · 5 posts · 9 votes

Hello BP community. I am new to the Landlord realm. I'm ready to rent out to tenants. What is the best software to use? I've narrowed it down to BP's Rent Redi or Tennant Cloud. Any insight would be greatly appreciated!

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Chase Busick
Realtor · Oklahoma City · Member since 2020 · 258 posts · 139 votes
1y

@Lou Burnett 

If you are just starting out & have one or two rentals. I'd just recommend utilizing a free software like apartments.com (rent collection is free). This is a great place for just starting out & I am sure there are others too. With Apts.com I think they have most general forms if you don't have any from lease, to application, to others. You can take applications, screen, take maintenance requests & market/advertise on there.

You can also utilize marketing/advertising on Facebook Marketplace, Zillow (which they also have a ton of the same features as Apts.com), etc. Most will syndicate to other websites for marketing. 

With Tenant Cloud, I know it can be a little pricey just starting off & unsure on the price for BP's. You should try to actively keep costs as minimal as possible when first starting off, unless it is an absolute necessity. You can always do trial periods on some, grow, then when need be scale & try new systems as well. I know a decent amount of people who use Tenant Cloud & like it, but has it's own things they need to internally update on like most others.

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  • Jonathan GreeneBusiness Member
    Real Estate Consultant · Madison, NJ · Member since 2016 · 6k+ posts · 7k+ votes
    1y

    Whichever one makes it easier for the tenants to put rent on autopay or pay through the portal. It's apples and apples most of the time with websites. If you like the feel or use of one, use that.

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  • Theresa HarrisPro Member
    Member since 2019 · 15k+ posts · 11k+ votes
    1y

    What specifically do you need software for?  I don't use any, I keep track of things in a notebook.

    4Reply
  • Chase Busick
    Realtor · Oklahoma City · Member since 2020 · 258 posts · 139 votes
    1y

    @Lou Burnett 

    If you are just starting out & have one or two rentals. I'd just recommend utilizing a free software like apartments.com (rent collection is free). This is a great place for just starting out & I am sure there are others too. With Apts.com I think they have most general forms if you don't have any from lease, to application, to others. You can take applications, screen, take maintenance requests & market/advertise on there.

    You can also utilize marketing/advertising on Facebook Marketplace, Zillow (which they also have a ton of the same features as Apts.com), etc. Most will syndicate to other websites for marketing. 

    With Tenant Cloud, I know it can be a little pricey just starting off & unsure on the price for BP's. You should try to actively keep costs as minimal as possible when first starting off, unless it is an absolute necessity. You can always do trial periods on some, grow, then when need be scale & try new systems as well. I know a decent amount of people who use Tenant Cloud & like it, but has it's own things they need to internally update on like most others.

    4Reply
    • Lou Burnett
      OP
      Member since 2021 · 5 posts · 9 votes
      1y

      @Chase Busick thanks.  This was Very helpful. 

      0Reply
    • Seth McGatheyBusiness Member
      Real Estate Agent · Milwaukee WI · Member since 2024 · 318 posts · 251 votes
      1y

      @Lou Burnett I second this. I use apartments .com and am overall happy with it considering it's free. The app can be a little annoying because it is basically just a bunch of links to their website. And you should do your own public record check for background checks on top of theirs. I have multiple times found very problematic things that apartments .com missed on the background check. But again, overall I am happy with it for the price of free. I likely will transition to something else once I have a large portfolio, but for now it is fine. 

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    • Seth McGatheyBusiness Member
      Real Estate Agent · Milwaukee WI · Member since 2024 · 318 posts · 251 votes
      1y

      @Lou Burnett Side note, I am also in Milwaukee. If you are interested in getting some local support, I am a part of a local investor meetup. We meet once a month and have a WhatsApp to talk real estate between meetings, pass contacts, and share deals. If interested, feel free to reach out. 

      [email protected]708-297-0996
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  • Stephen Nichols
    Member since 2022 · 5 posts · 2 votes
    1y

    We have 10 and get renters through Zillow, use zelle to get rent.  Don't really need anything else on this scale.  

    1Reply
  • Account Closed
    Accountant · NY · Member since 2025 · 39 posts · 41 votes
    1y

    Whatever software you end up choosing, make sure it can connect to your bank feed, categorize expenses, tracking by property, and most importantly, be able to export a Schedule E report at the end of the year. With proper bookkeeping systems in place, tax time will be super smooth. Just export the Schedule E report and hand it over to your CPA. 

    2Reply
  • Paul Novak
    Rental Property Investor · WI · Member since 2023 · 192 posts · 143 votes
    1y

    I have a small portfolio of 8 doors about an hour north of you in Sheboygan and we use a few different software systems to manage our properties. We use Zillow and Apartments.com to list our properties. We also like using that software for screening tenants. The tenants pay for their background check. The next software we use is Stessa for basic bookkeeping. Other than that we do most of our process outside of software. We have documented work instructions for all processes we follow to market properties and select tenants. If you are interested message me as I would be happy to share what we have put together. It could be a good starting point for you as we have shared these with other investors on BP starting out in the past.

    2Reply
  • Chris Chisholm
    Investor · Regina, SK · Member since 2025 · 54 posts · 42 votes
    1y

    I use the free version of Stessa.  Being Canadian it has it's limitations for me, but there are a lot of useful things on that free version to organize a few properties and the keep records of financials while you cut your teeth on learning the ropes of renting properties.  Use the free version until you scale up larger and then upgrade.

    2Reply
  • Coty B LunnBusiness Member
    Real Estate Agent · Binghamton, NY · Member since 2022 · 45 posts · 26 votes
    1y

    I personally use and recommend TurboTenant. 

    There are free and paid versions depending on what you want it to do, but it's not that expensive if you go for it. 

    What it does: 

    • Online tenant screening & applications: Tenants apply digitally; ordering credit, criminal, eviction checks via TransUnion. Fees are generally tenant‑paid, or landlords on paid tiers pay less 

    • Listing syndication: Post listings once, and TurboTenant distributes them to Zillow, Apartments.com, Craigslist, and others 

    • Digital leases & e‑sign: Use state‑specific lease templates. Paid tiers allow unlimited agreements and signing.

    • Rent collection & accounting: Supports ACH and card payments; automatic reminders, late fees, receipts, and optional autopay. ACH fees waived on Premium 

    • Resource tools: Message inbox, maintenance tickets, condition reports, expense tracking, document storage, and an owner portal

    [email protected]607-481-5660
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  • Stephen Nichols
    Member since 2022 · 5 posts · 2 votes
    1y

    @Lou Burnett  We keep track of everything through QuickBooks.  It is an extra step to record it but it works for us.  We have tenants who still send checks, some pay cash and some send funds through online methods.  Not all our renters are up on all the "modern" methods.  We happy to accept payments any way someone wants to give them to us:)  Again we are small, normally around 10-15 properties max. 

    1Reply
  • Charles ClarkBusiness Member
    Real Estate Broker · Milwaukee, WI · Member since 2020 · 306 posts · 209 votes
    1y

    @Lou Burnett
    Welcome to the landlord journey! Both are great options, but RentRedi integrates seamlessly with BP and is super user-friendly—I'd lean that way!

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  • Gregory Chadwell
    Real Estate Broker · Milwaukee, WI · Member since 2015 · 299 posts · 90 votes
    1y

    Ive been using Rent-Redi for 3 years now which was recommended on a BP Podcast I believe its around $80 a year.  Here is a link  https://app.rentredi.com/signUp/DZS602?utm_medium=copylink&a...

    2Reply
  • Coty B LunnBusiness Member
    Real Estate Agent · Binghamton, NY · Member since 2022 · 45 posts · 26 votes
    1y

    I would recommend Turbo Tenant.  I use it personally for all my rentals and as someone who handles dozens of rental transactions every year, I’ve tried a variety of platforms to streamline the leasing process and TurboTenant has consistently proven to be one of the most effective tools out there for independent landlords and property managers.

    Here’s why I think TurboTenant is a great program to use when renting to tenants:

    1. Easy and Professional Listings
    TurboTenant allows you to create a polished rental listing quickly and syndicate it to dozens of rental sites (like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Realtor.com) with just one click. This maximizes exposure and cuts down on time spent manually posting across platforms.

    2. Online Applications & Screening
    You can collect rental applications and screen tenants all within the platform. TurboTenant provides credit reports, criminal background checks, and eviction history—all paid by the applicant. This makes screening thorough, consistent, and cost-free for the landlord.

    3. Streamlined Communication
    The messaging feature allows you to communicate with applicants easily and keep all conversations organized in one place. No more juggling texts, emails, or missed calls.

    4. Document Management & E-Signatures
    You can upload your own lease or use one of TurboTenant’s state-specific templates. All lease agreements can be signed electronically—no printer or scanner required, which is great for both landlords and tenants.

    5. Rent Collection Made Easy
    Tenants can pay rent online, and you’ll receive funds directly in your bank account. You can also set up automatic late fees and reminders, making it easier to enforce lease terms and encourage on-time payments.

    6. Expense & Maintenance Tracking
    The platform allows you to log expenses and track maintenance requests. This is especially helpful at tax time and for staying on top of property upkeep.

    7. It's Free for Landlords
    Most features are free for landlords—TurboTenant makes money by charging tenants for applications and reports. Optional premium upgrades are available, but the core functionality works great without added cost.

    Bottom Line:
    TurboTenant simplifies and professionalizes the entire rental process. Whether you manage one property or a dozen, it’s an efficient tool to keep your business organized, compliant, and competitive.

    [email protected]607-481-5660
    SVN Innovative Coty Lunn4.819 Reviews
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    • Gregory Chadwell
      Real Estate Broker · Milwaukee, WI · Member since 2015 · 299 posts · 90 votes
      1y
      Quote from @Coty B Lunn:

      I would recommend Turbo Tenant.  I use it personally for all my rentals and as someone who handles dozens of rental transactions every year, I’ve tried a variety of platforms to streamline the leasing process and TurboTenant has consistently proven to be one of the most effective tools out there for independent landlords and property managers.

      Here’s why I think TurboTenant is a great program to use when renting to tenants:

      1. Easy and Professional Listings
      TurboTenant allows you to create a polished rental listing quickly and syndicate it to dozens of rental sites (like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Realtor.com) with just one click. This maximizes exposure and cuts down on time spent manually posting across platforms.

      2. Online Applications & Screening
      You can collect rental applications and screen tenants all within the platform. TurboTenant provides credit reports, criminal background checks, and eviction history—all paid by the applicant. This makes screening thorough, consistent, and cost-free for the landlord.

      3. Streamlined Communication
      The messaging feature allows you to communicate with applicants easily and keep all conversations organized in one place. No more juggling texts, emails, or missed calls.

      4. Document Management & E-Signatures
      You can upload your own lease or use one of TurboTenant’s state-specific templates. All lease agreements can be signed electronically—no printer or scanner required, which is great for both landlords and tenants.

      5. Rent Collection Made Easy
      Tenants can pay rent online, and you’ll receive funds directly in your bank account. You can also set up automatic late fees and reminders, making it easier to enforce lease terms and encourage on-time payments.

      6. Expense & Maintenance Tracking
      The platform allows you to log expenses and track maintenance requests. This is especially helpful at tax time and for staying on top of property upkeep.

      7. It's Free for Landlords
      Most features are free for landlords—TurboTenant makes money by charging tenants for applications and reports. Optional premium upgrades are available, but the core functionality works great without added cost.

      Bottom Line:
      TurboTenant simplifies and professionalizes the entire rental process. Whether you manage one property or a dozen, it’s an efficient tool to keep your business organized, compliant, and competitive.


       Yes Beardy Brandon endorses it. Maybe gets something for promoting it. 

      1Reply
  • Rene G.
    Real Estate Coach · LandlordSkool.com · Member since 2017 · 110 posts · 88 votes
    1y

    Lou,

    Bro! This question is so over asked. Everyone is giving you one way communication without knowing any of your details. I volunteer to jump on a Zoom with you if you want, just DM me...

    Here's the down low, I think you're asking the wrong question. How committed are you and want do you really want are the real questions.

    I'm leaving out so much, but maybe you can read between the lines:

    Kinda like a calculator, if you don't have the math knowledge, sure a calculator can help you do some basic math, but if you have a scientific calculator would you need it/want to even learn it?

    Your question is kinda like asking which calculator you should get. Everyone is giving you their bias opinion/input. It's not bad, but I don't do that. I need to know what kind of student are you first!?

    I'm like wait, who are you and what are you all about, and what to you need. Then, I'd know exactly what you'd need by finding out what you don't need.

    Good luck man!

    4Δ 𝓡𝓮𝓷𝓮 💪

    The Forever Landlord

    0Reply
  • Rachid AbadliBusiness Member
    Investor · Sacramento, CA · Member since 2024 · 129 posts · 33 votes
    3mo

    Congrats on getting to this point — the fact that you're thinking about systems before your first tenant moves in puts you ahead of 90% of new landlords.

    My advice: don't overthink it. Pick one platform that handles rent collection, maintenance requests, and lease storage. Use it from day one so you build the habit.

    The biggest mistake I made early on was starting with spreadsheets and texts, then trying to migrate everything into software six months later. That migration never fully happened, and I had records scattered across three places during tax season.

    Whatever you pick, the non-negotiable is making sure it handles your state's specific requirements. If you're in a state with rent control, deposit laws, or just-cause eviction rules, generic software that doesn't account for those deadlines will cost you more than the subscription saves.

    LeaseBase.ai
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  • Rachid AbadliBusiness Member
    Investor · Sacramento, CA · Member since 2024 · 129 posts · 33 votes
    1d

    Pick one that covers: (1) lease creation with state-specific disclosures, (2) tenant screening, (3) rent collection, (4) maintenance tracking. Avoid paying per-unit until you have 5+ doors. The free tools handle 1-4 units just fine.

    LeaseBase.ai
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  • Kim Gray
    Member since 2026 · 70 posts · 24 votes
    21h

    I use Easy Rental Records for the recordkeeping side (income, expenses, receipts, mileage, security deposits and financial reports.) It also has a built-in AI Agent. I self-manage, so I like keeping the financial side organized without a full property management system.

    0Reply
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