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Which software is better for small landlords?

Which software is better for small landlords?
Which Software Is Better for Small Landlords? Comparing The Top Platforms for Rent Invoices and More in 2025

Which Software Is Better for Small Landlords? Comparing The Top Platforms for Rent Invoices and More in 2025

Introduction

Small landlords face an evolving set of challenges: collecting rent, screening tenants, generating rent invoices, managing leases, and keeping track of maintenance requests. Choosing the right property management software can drastically streamline your workflow and reduce stress. With a range of options available—from free platforms to comprehensive paid suites—it is important to understand which software is best suited for your specific needs as a small landlord in 2025.

Essential Features for Small Landlord Software

The best software for small landlords typically includes the following:

  • Rent invoice generation and delivery
  • Online rent collection with automated reminders
  • Tenant screening and leasing tools
  • Maintenance request tracking
  • Income and expense accounting, ideally with exportable reports
  • Document storage for leases and receipts
  • Mobile access for landlords on the go

Top Software Platforms for Small Landlords in 2025

Below is an in-depth look at leading platforms, with focus on how they address core needs, including rent invoice creation, payment processing, and simplicity.

1. DoorLoop

DoorLoop is designed specifically for independent landlords and small property managers. It features automated rent collection, late fee tracking, digital lease management, and easy maintenance tracking all within a user-friendly dashboard. DoorLoop supports the entire rent invoice cycle by sending invoices, accepting online payments, and even supporting e-signing for leases. Its integrated accounting tools help landlords track rent income and expenses. DoorLoop’s scalability ensures you won’t outgrow the platform as your portfolio expands. Plans start at $69/month, which might be high for owners of just one or two units, but the feature set is comprehensive for growing small landlords[1][2].

2. Innago

Innago offers a free platform for smaller landlords. It covers the essentials: online rent payments, lease management, application processing, tenant screening, and even rent invoicing. Tenants typically pay for background checks and add-on features, keeping costs low for owners. Innago is praised for its simple interface and robust customer support. While it lacks some advanced accounting features, for most small landlords focused on automation and online payment/electronic rent invoice delivery, Innago is a compelling choice[1][5].

3. Landlord Studio

Landlord Studio is tailored for landlords who prioritize accounting and financial tracking. It provides a mobile app with receipt scanning, automated reminders, mileage tracking, and customizable rent invoice templates. The Pro plan unlocks integration with banking and accounting platforms, and its reports are popular during tax season. Landlord Studio suits landlords who want a comprehensive dashboard for tracking rent and expenses alongside standard features like lease management and rent collection[1][3].

4. Stessa

For landlords focused on financial health, Stessa enables automated income and expense tracking, generating detailed financial reports, and online rent collection—all for free on its basic plan. The platform lets you draft leases and create rent invoices with ease, and offers tenants autopay options. Stessa’s primary strength is financial visibility, making tax time and revenue analysis much simpler[1][9].

5. Avail

Avail targets independent landlords with fewer than five units. Its free tier covers basic listing syndication and lease management; for $9/unit/month, landlords can add credit reporting and more advanced automation. Avail’s rent collection system includes automatic generation of rent invoices, lease agreements, and online payments. However, the cost can add up if you manage multiple units[1][6].

6. TenantCloud

TenantCloud is a cloud-based property management solution with a comprehensive free plan for landlords with a few units. Features include online rent collection, rent invoice templates, maintenance management, listing marketing, and document storage. Paid plans unlock advanced accounting, more documents, and premium integrations[2][7].

How to Choose the Best Software for Your Needs

When evaluating property management software, consider:

  • Portfolio size: Some apps are optimized for single-property or micro-landlords, while others scale better for owners of 5–10+ units.
  • Budget: Free solutions often include core rent invoice and collection options but may lack advanced accounting, integrations, or support.
  • Required features: Do you need online rent invoice delivery, advanced reporting, mobile apps, or automated late fee tracking?
  • Customer support and ease of use: Platforms like DoorLoop, Innago, and Avail are well-known for their support and intuitive interfaces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is free software safe and reliable?

Most established free property management software—like Innago, Avail, and Stessa—are secure, compliant, and trusted by thousands of landlords. Always review licensing terms, privacy practices, and essential support or support level upgrades you may need.

Which software is best for generating rent invoices and receipts?

For professional-looking rent invoices and automated receipts, DoorLoop, Innago, Landlord Studio, and Avail are strong choices—all offer templates and digital delivery. Landlord Studio and Stessa are particularly strong for integrating invoices with accounting and tax reporting features.

Can I manage multiple properties with basic plans?

Some free plans limit the number of units (e.g., Landlord Studio offers three units free). Paid plans unlock higher limits, more document storage, and advanced automation. DoorLoop is highly scalable for growing portfolios, while Innago and Avail are ideal for smaller numbers of units and lower upfront costs.

Conclusion

Selecting the right property management software for small landlords in 2025 depends on your unique portfolio, budget, and feature needs. Whether you prioritize comprehensive accounting, easy rent invoice generation, or simply want a no-fuss way to collect rent online, options like DoorLoop, Innago, Landlord Studio, Stessa, Avail, and TenantCloud offer a range of solutions trusted by thousands of landlords. Most importantly, these platforms free your time so you can focus on maximizing your investment while providing professional rental experiences for your tenants.