Discover the best software for rental management in 2025

Rental management can be a real challenge, but 2025 rental management software is making life easier for owners, property managers and agencies.

These tools automate repetitive tasks, maximize profitability, and ensure regulatory compliance. Here's everything you need to know to choose the best software for your needs.

Why use rental management software?

Managing properties, whether it's a few apartments or a large portfolio, is an activity that requires time and organization. Between tracking payments, communicating with tenants, and managing repairs, mistakes and time wastes are common with manual management. Rental management software is changing the game by:

• Automating repetitive tasks : collecting rent, sending receipts, payment reminders.
• Centralizing information : contracts, tenant histories, financial reports.
• Reducing errors : thanks to standardized processes and automatic calculations.
• Improving communication : with tenant portals and automatic notifications.

In 2025, this software uses theartificial intelligence to adjust rents according to the market or anticipate maintenance needs via theIoT. They allow owners and managers to focus on strategic decisions, such as expanding their portfolio or optimizing profitability.

Concrete example : Julien, owner of 5 apartments in Lyon, used Excel spreadsheets to manage his rentals. After moving on to Rentila, it has reduced the time spent managing rents and receipts by 10 hours per month, while reducing unpaid bills thanks to automatic reminders.

What is rental management software? Your ally to simplify everything

One rental management software Is a digital solution whom Revolutionize the management of your rental properties. He automates and centralize everything: rents, contracts, maintenance, and legal compliance. Whether you are proprietary, handler, agency, SCI, or particular, this tool you unleashes time-consuming tasks for management fluid and standalone.

Why is it so popular? The users Adore And their returns improve constantly the functionalities, making these software ultra-intuitive. According to Fortune Business Insights, the market will reach $26.55 billion in 2025 and Will explode unto $52.21 billion by 2032 (CAGR 10.1%). Why this madness? These tools Simplify more and more rental management intricate, boosting efficiency and serenity.

What features are essential?

High-performance software must cover essential needs while offering advanced options to stand out. Here are the essential features in 2025:

• Management of rents and charges : Online collection, automatic reminders, management of payments.
• Tenant Management : Centralization of contracts, communication histories, tenant portal.
• Maintenance monitoring : Submission of requests by tenants, assignment of daily tasks, follow-up of resolutions or household waste
• Accounting and reporting : Income/expenditure monitoring, detailed financial reports, exports for taxation.
• Management of receipts and contracts : Automatic creation, secure storage, legal compliance.
• Communication : Integrated messaging, automatic notifications (payments, maintenance).
• Ad Management : Creation and distribution on platforms like Leboncoin or Seloger.
• Secure storage : Space for contracts, inspection reports, legal documents.
• Dashboard : Overview of key indicators (occupancy rate, overdue rents).
• Mobile accessibility : Application or interface adapted to manage on the go.

Advanced features:

• AI : Analysis of market trends to adjust rents or select tenants.
• IoT : Sensors to anticipate maintenance problems (leaks, breakdowns).
• Regulatory compliance : Automatic update to comply with laws (ALUR, ELAN, CLIMATE).
• Rent review : Automation of the revision of rents according to official indices, guaranteeing optimal rental management.

example : AppFolio uses AI to automate tenant selection, reducing rental vacancy time by 20% for a real estate agency in Paris.

How do I choose the right software?

Choosing software depends on your needs, your budget, and the size of your real estate portfolio. Here are the steps to make the right choice:

Assess your needs:

• Small owners (1-10 properties): Choose simple and affordable tools like TurboTenant or Rentila.
• Professionals/agencies (10+ properties): Opt for scalable solutions like AppFolio or MRI Software that can adapt to the size of your real estate portfolio.
• SCI : Look for specific functionalities for shared management (accounting, reports).

Consider your budget:

• Free: TurboTenant (fees passed on to the tenants).
• Affordable: Rentila (€9/month).
• Premium: Buildium ($58/month) or AppFolio (on request).

Check the key criteria:

• Ease of use : Intuitive interface, minimal training.
• security : Encryption, RGPD compliance.
• Customer support : Responsiveness, 24/7 availability.
• Scalability : Ability to manage a growing portfolio.
• Integrations : Compatibility with accounting tools (QuickBooks, Xero).
• Mobile accessibility : Application to manage on the go.

Test before you buy:

• Take advantage of free trials (often 14-30 days) to assess the interface and features.
• See user reviews on platforms like CapTERRA or Trustpilot.

Case study : Claire, manager of an SCI with 15 properties, chose Buildium for its ease of use and detailed reports. After 3 months, it reduced accounting time by 50% and improved tenant satisfaction through the online portal.

Advantages compared to manual management

Moving from manual management (spreadsheets, paper) to software offers significant benefits for the landlord:

• Time saver : Automation of receipts, reminders and reports (up to 15 hours/month saved).
• Reduction of errors : Automatic calculation of charges, compliance of contracts.
• Fewer unpaid bills : Automatic reminders and online payment portals.
• Better organization : All centralized data, accessible in one click.
• Tenant satisfaction : Seamless communication, portal for submitting requests.
• Increased profitability : Performance analysis to optimize rents and reduce costs.

example : A real estate agency in Bordeaux using Propertyware saved 12 hours per week by automating announcements and payment reminders, according to a case study.

The management software market

The rental management software market is constantly evolving. A lot of software is available on the market, each offering different functionalities. Landlord owners should choose software that meets their specific needs.

Rental management software can be classified into two categories: rental software and property management software. Rental software is designed to manage rentals, rents, and expenses, while property management software is designed to manage all real estate, including rentals, sales, and purchases.

Rental management software should be easy to use, secure, and reliable. They should also be compatible with different operating systems and mobile devices.

Management of unpaid bills

Unpaid bills are a major challenge in rental management, causing a considerable mental burden for owners. Modern software facilitates their management thanks to:

• Automatic reminders : Sending by email or SMS before and after the deadline.
• Payment portals : Secure online payments (card, SEPA direct debit).
• Real-time tracking : Alerts for overdue rentals, payment histories.
• Escalation procedures : Automatic generation of reminder letters or formal notice.
• Reports : Analysis of unpaid trends to identify at-risk tenants.

example : With Buildium, an SCI reduced its arrears by 15% in 6 months thanks to automatic reminders and an intuitive payment portal.

Regulatory compliance

In France, rental management is governed by strict laws (ALUR, ELAN, CLIMATE). Software ensures compliance by:

• Updating contract templates : Leases in accordance with the latest laws.
• Automating obligations : Sending receipts, regularization of charges.
• According to legal deadlines : Notifications for rent renewals or revisions.
• Respecting the RGPD : Protection of tenant data.

It is also crucial to engage visitors and potential customers by organizing interactive events and activities.

example : Rentila integrates automatic updates for the ALUR law, allowing an owner to generate compliant leases in a few clicks.

Security & privacy: Protect your data with reliable software

When you choose a rental management software, the security And the confidentiality data must be a top priority. Information about your tenants And your real estate are sensitive, and a hacking Or a shedding may cause serious problems. Here's what you need know to select a tool trusty and conforms, with a look review on the options available.

Encryption: Lock your data

Secure your data starts with a encryption sturdy. The best software uses technologies Like the AES-256 encryption to ward Information against unwanted accesses. This ensures that even in the event of leakage, your data remains unreadable for pirates. Les connections must also go through HTTPS protocols, which secure the swaps between your device and the server.

lookout : some software Low-cost neglecting these standards, putting your data Endangered. Always check the specs of encryption before you commit. Encryption weak or absentee can be expensive in case of cyber attack.

Good encryption is your first line of defense to keep your information safe.

Active defences: Repel cyberattacks

A software reliable must be cocked Against digital threats. Les firewalls Block the intrusions, while the detection systems Spot the suspicious activities in real time. Les frequent updates Are also essentials to correct the loopholes of safety.

• Heavy-duty firewalls : Prevent unauthorised access.
• Intrusion detection : Alert on hacking attempts.
• Regular updates : Protect against new threats.
• Safety tests : Ensure a continuous protection.

Be careful : some tools, even popular ones, can hang out on updates, leaving vulnerabilities. For example, software poorly maintained Maybe a Open door for hackers. Check the repute of the supplier in terms of responsiveness.

Suggested image : A digital shield repelling arrows representing cyberattacks, with text “Active threat protection”.

An active defense is crucial to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.

Legal compliance: Respect the rules

A software seriousness shalt follow The laws on data protection, like the RGPD in Europe. That includes the transparency about how the data is collected, Stored and used. Tenants have the upright to know what is being done with their personal information.

Common problem : some software, often based outside Europe, ignore the RGPD, which may result in fines for you. Ensure that the supplier Details its legal commitments. A lack of clearness Is a Alarm signal.

Choosing a software conforms Prevents you from legal problems and reinforces the trust of your tenants.

Backups: Never lose your data

Les outages or catastrophes (like a Ransomware) can obliterate your data. A good software offers automatic backups regular and a Fast food to scavenge your information without panic.

• Daily backups : Keep your data In safety.
• Off-site storage : Protects against physical claims.

lookout : some tools cheapness limit backups or Invoice catering. Check the frequency And the facilitated access to backups. For example, Rentila Saved a Owner from Lyon in 2024 thanks to its automatic backups After a attack.

Reliable backups are your safety net to avoid irreversible losses.

Certifications: A guarantee of seriousness

For evaluate The trustworthiness of a software, look for certifications recognized as ISO 27001 (safety management) or SOC 2 (data control). These Labels prove that the supplier takes the security seriously.

Trap to avoid : some software Praising certifications waves or not verifiable. Ask for concrete evidence or check out the expert opinions. A tool without clear certification Can hide loopholes.

A software certified gives you the assurance of tested and approved protection.

Software pricing

Pricing varies according to features and portfolio size:

• Gratuit : TurboTenant (tenant fees for some options).
• Affordable : Rentila (9 €/month), Buildium ($58/month for 20 units).
• Premium : Rent Manager ($200/month), AppFolio (on estimate, about $1.5 per unit/month).
  • Assistance in declaring property income, including functionalities to calculate amounts and facilitate the fulfilment of tax obligations for property owners.
• Business : MRI Software ($126/month, suitable for large wallets).

Some solutions charge per unit (well managed) or offer discounts for annual subscriptions. Check for hidden costs, like data import fees or premium support fees.

Trends to watch in 2025

The sector is evolving rapidly, with innovations that are redefining rental management:

• AI and automation : Tenant selection, predictive maintenance, rent adjustment.
• Mobile solutions : Real-time management via intuitive applications.
• Ecology : Tools to monitor the energy performance of goods (in accordance with the CLIMATE law).
• Predictive analytics : Data to anticipate the needs of tenants and optimize rents.
• Real estate rent : Promotion of simple and effective rental management software for individuals, SCIs and professionals, making it possible to manage all stages of the rental with advanced functionalities for monitoring rents, tax reporting and assistance in the management of several properties.

example : Lethub uses AI to reduce rental vacation time by suggesting competitive rents based on market trends.

FAQS

1. What are the advantages of Lockimmo for French owners?

Lockimmo is ideal for owners and agencies in France thanks to its compliance with local laws (ALUR, ELAN). It offers an intuitive interface, inventory management, online rent collection and automatic reminders for unpaid invoices. Its affordable price (starting at €12/month) and its 30-day free trial make it an attractive option.

2. Is Lockimmo suitable for small SCIs?

Yes, Lockimmo is suitable for SCI managing a few properties. It offers simplified accounting tools, reports for associates and centralized contract management, with a quick start.

3. How does Lockimmo deal with unpaid bills?

Lockimmo automates email/SMS reminders, offers a secure payment portal and generates compliant reminder letters or formal notices. Users report a reduction in unpaid bills of 10 to 15%.

4. Does Lockimmo comply with French regulations?

Absolutely. Lockimmo automatically updates its lease models, receipts and inventories to comply with ALUR, ELAN and CLIMAT laws, while complying with the RGPD for data protection.

5. Can I test Lockimmo before subscribing?

Yes, Lockimmo offers a 30-day free trial without commitment. You can test all the functionalities, import your data and evaluate the interface via their site (lockimmo.com).

6. What are Lockimmo's limits?

Lockimmo is less suitable for large international portfolios (100+ properties) because it focuses on the French market. It also lacks some advanced AI features, like predictive rent analysis, available at AppFolio.

7. How do I subscribe to Lockimmo?

Go to lockimmo.com, create an account, test free of charge for 30 days, then choose a plan (starting at €12/month). Payment is made by card or bank transfer, with monthly or annual options.

8. What software competitors to Lockimmo can I consider?

For the French market, Rentila (€9/month) is an affordable alternative, while Buildium ($58/month) offers more features for SCIs or agencies. AppFolio suitable for mixed wallets, but has a higher price.

9. Does software like Lockimmo require long training?

No, Lockimmo is designed to be intuitive. It offers tutorials, webinars, and responsive support. Most users master the tool in 1 to 2 hours.

10. Is rental management software secure?

Yes, solutions like Lockimmo use data encryption, two-factor authentication, and regular backups, in compliance with the GDPR, to protect the information of tenants and owners.

Conclusion

In 2025, rental management software is an essential ally for owners in their own name or real estate professionals. They simplify tasks, reduce errors, and increase profitability while ensuring legal compliance. Whether you opt for Rentila for its simplicity, Buildium for its versatility or AppFolio for its advanced functionalities, the important thing is to choose a tool adapted to your needs and your budget.

Explore free trials, test features, and transform your rental management today. With the right software, you'll save time, reduce stress, and provide a better experience for your tenants.

References

• Fortune Business Insights - Property Management Software Market Size & Growth
• AppFolio - Renters Warehouse Case Study
• Propertyware - Rosenbaum Realty Group Case Study
• TechRadar - Best Property Management Software of 2025
• Investopedia - Best Rental Property Management Software of 2025
• Mordor Intelligence - Property Management Software Market Size & Share Analysis
• Lethub - Future of Property Management Software Trends for 2025