Tools and platforms make it easier than ever to respond instantly:CRM Automation – Platforms like GoHighLevel, HubSpot, or Salesforce can send automated text and email responses the second a lead submits a form.Chatbots – AI-powered chatbots provide instant answers to FAQs and keep leads engaged while you prepare a personal follow-up.Call Forwarding – Route new inquiries directly to your phone or team so no call ever goes unanswered.Lead Scoring – Use technology to prioritize high-intent leads, so you know who to call first.The goal isn’t to replace personal communication but to bridge the gap between a lead’s initial outreach and your personalized response.Best Practices for Speed in Lead GenerationHere are some actionable tips to ensure you’re always ahead of the competition:Set a 5-Minute Rule: Aim to respond to all new leads within five minutes.

Platforms like Upwork or OnlineJobs.ph are common, but the key is training and monitoring quality.For follow-up, I’ve seen a simple 1-3-7-30 day sequence work well, then pushing long-term leads into monthly touches.On CRMs, REsimpli and Podio are popular, but the best one depends on how big your lists are and how automated you want your follow-up to be.I’ll DM you and share what I’ve seen work with larger campaign

However, that's less than ideal for me because it automates 2 separate templates (one isn't customized and explained above) and the other is VRBO's email template (which I can't find yet to edit or get rid of) which has all sorts of incorrect things such as review the rental agreement (we don't have one beyond House Rules) and how to pick up keys (we're 100% smart locks).You're exactly right with the clunky nature of high demand dates so in one case when I actually pre-approved a return client, they couldn't pay (that was the problem and absolutely with VRBO's system) despite repeated tries and another request from a different guest for those same dates overrode my pre-approval and it was a huge mess.As hosts, we have to act as if VRBO won't find a fix.

I am a technical guy, who like to automate many things using AI.I would like to show some demo to you, and get feedback.Thanks

I saw one that implemented roof replacements after hail storm.  4 units in each building, but HOA would not replace the roof until all 4 paid the special assessment (deductible) for the roof. 

Full Paint walls/ceilings (2 coats) 1 $400.00 Refinish kitchen cabinets 1 $100.00 Replace all blinds 1 $180.00 Replace two light bulbs 1 $30.00 Touch up paint tub 1 $60.00 Replace shower rod 1 $30.00 Replace liv room screen/re screen sliding door 1 $120.00 Repair closet doors 1 $120.00 Bathroom sink replacement 1 $350.00 Full clean unit 1 $410.00 Notes: Subtotal $1,800.00 CA recently (this year) implemented very strict security deposit laws.  

First, verify true market rents per unit and implement legal increases at renewal; consider RUBS to shift utilities.

The demand is usually steady year-round in Chicago for that group.That said, here’s how I’d weigh it:If you go MTR:You’ll need to furnish it properly — not fancy, but turnkey: queen bed in each room, blackout curtains, comfy couch, smart TV, solid Wi-Fi, a stocked kitchen (pots/pans, utensils, coffee maker, toaster), and a simple desk setup.Expect about $4K–$6K upfront to get it guest-ready if you’re starting from scratch.Cleaning and turnover management can be automated (Turno app or a local cleaner), but there’s still some coordination involved.Since you’re near a hospital, list on both Furnished Finder and Airbnb (30+ night stays) — that combo usually keeps you booked.If you go LTR instead:You’ll save yourself the time and mental load of setting up a new system while adjusting to newborn life.Even if the rent’s lower, you’ll get steady income and less stress, which might be worth it right now.Winter leasing in Chicago:Yeah, it’s slower — especially December through February — but MTRs tied to hospitals stay active because medical contracts don’t follow the same seasonality.If this were me?

Tenant Access is a company that is keyless access management with automated showings that is guided by live Zoom video with tenants to remove the blinds spots.  

Recommendation: use a service, implement an application fee and see if it yields better results...if not you can always go back to what you're currently doing.