AppFolio Property Manager vs. Property Matrix

We have 6 apartment buildings that we manage. Every month we were having to drive to each location to collect rent checks. Since using appfolio, we only have a couple of renters that still send in a paper check, the rest pay online, so we are ensuring that our renters are paying on time. Once we have an applicant apply, the old way was to take their scanned application, review, and then pay to have a background check conducted. Now, with appfolio, we are able to have them apply, sign off on the background check, and pay their deposit all in one shot. It has allowed our property managers to focus on other property items rather than conducting background checks.

Incentivized

Property Matrix has developed property management software that incorporates all the power of a highly technical accounting software with the conveniences of state-of-the-art check scanning capabilities. For years, I've struggled with the physical demands of check processing - receipt, delivery, recording and processing. Now I'm able to simplify all of these steps into just one encrypted scan. I'm also able to review every account from one convenient location - tenants, vendors, owners, accounts and check scanning are all accessible from the main screen. I'm able to review outstanding invoices, rent payments, management fees and so much more. It's very well suited for my business.

• Prior to purchasing AppFolio Property Manager we used a texting app so we could mass text tenants. AppFolio allows us to text them by their unit along with their guarantors (if needed.) We use this feature daily. It is so convenient when we need to reach out residents quickly.
• The online payment system makes it easy for our commercial and residential tenants to make rental payments. The system has also lessened the work of out Account's manager since it's all in once place now and we do not have to enter payments into a separate system.
• Navigating AppFolio Property Manager is extremely easy. When we have new hire, it does take any time for them to become comfortable with the system. The main page dashboard makes it simple to get from point A to point B and beyond. The Search engine on AppFolio Property Manager is so efficient. You can search almost anything- phone number, first names, last names, addressed, license plate numbers to successfully find what you are needing.

Incentivized

• I especially like the all-inclusive dashboard for accounting. Multiple tabs keep everything organized and accessible.
• Customized reports are extremely important. This software allows me to set my own parameters instead of forcing me to used canned reporting data.
• Real-time information allows me to always know what task is required next. It also helps me stay focused and never worry that I've forgotten something.
• The cloud-based software provides access from any location and device. Now I can spend less time behind my desk and more time in the field where I'm needed.

• Customer support is horrendous. It can take weeks to get a live person on the phone and once you get someone, they typically will need to escalate your issue.
• If you have multiple bank accounts at different banks, the bill-paying feature has trouble properly defaulting to the right bank account.
• Multiple bank accounts also have issues tying incorrectly to the Cash section of the balance sheet.

Incentivized

• I've found all aspects of this product to be exceptional for functionality, customization and flexibility. The only thing I've noticed is a limited range of easy-to-read background settings. There are 10 different themes, but all are blue and are a little difficult to read.

The system is so intuitive and easy to use. There’s almost nothing in the system that can’t be undone if you make a mistake. Important things also have their own tabs. It’s also easy to use from the resident side which is helpful for in a world where everyone is not tech-savvy.

Incentivized

The few times that we have had training with AppFolio, they were SO helpful and quick to answer any questions we may have. Because of their promptness, it shows what a great product they have. If they were not able to figure something out, they would follow up with us within a few days or so, which is so important in a software program!

Incentivized

This was our old program and it was not user friendly and very inefficient to use. We was never able to answer a question for an owner or a tenant very easily and many times we had to ask for them to let us call them back while we research their question because it was so difficult to maneuver in the program.

Incentivized

• As far as positive impact, we are much more organized as a company as far as accounting, maintenance, and managing tenant issues. We are all on the same page and know where to find notes, emails, letters, information, etc... and can be more self-sufficient and self-directed. I think this is a major plus as far as business goes, as time is money. The more efficient you can be, the more time that is saved, the more money that's saved, period.
• I don't work in Accounting and I haven't had any discussions regarding negative impacts in regards to this program. However, we've been using this since 2013 and we're on our 6th year as a business and I've heard others in our organization saying how much AppFolio has improved over that short time and how it keeps getting more intuitive and better with time. At no point have our leaders considered getting rid of the program or implementing a different program.

Incentivized

• The Property Matrix property management software has had a positive impact for on-time tenant payments. Before implementing this program, I often had to visit each tenant to collect rent payments. With digital check scanning and EBT payments available, my tenants rarely miss a payment.
• Maintaining my accounting records through this software has improved my own efficiency and allows me to spend more time visiting tenants. I used to spend several hours a day doing data entry. I've now cut that time in half and can even record pertinent information from the road.
• I'm a better manager with this software and am gaining more respect from my tenants, vendors and owners. With important data at my fingertips, I'm equipped with critical information precisely when I need it. Now when an owner asks for details about a building, I can confidently relay the information without delay.