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Managing rental properties as a small landlord is time-consuming—rent collection, tenant screening, and maintenance can quickly add up. The right property management software, free or paid, automates these tasks to save time and reduce stress.

This guide breaks down the best free and paid software for small landlords, helping you find the right fit based on your portfolio size, budget, and must-have features.

We’ve ranked the top options by affordability, ease of use, and overall user reviews—so you can stay organized, simplify management, and save time.

How We Chose The Best Small Landlord Software

Choosing the best property management software for small landlords requires more than just looking at features. We evaluated each platform based on key factors that matter most to landlords managing a handful of properties—ensuring the picks are practical, affordable, and scalable by looking at the following criteria:

Affordability – Does the software offer a free plan or budget-friendly pricing for landlords managing just a few units?

Essential Features – Does it cover key tasks like rent collection, tenant screening, lease management, and maintenance tracking?

Ease of Use – You shouldn’t need extensive training or support to get started. We focused on platforms that are intuitive, user-friendly, and mobile-friendly when possible.

Scalability – A great software shouldn’t require switching later as you grow. We factored in platforms that work for landlords with 1 to 20 units without steep price jumps.

User Reviews & Real Landlord Feedback – Every platform was evaluated based on actual landlord testimonials and Capterra user ratings, ensuring recommendations are backed by real experiences.

By focusing on this criteria, we’ve curated a list of software that save time, simplify management, and support long-term growth—whether you're renting out a single unit or scaling up to a larger portfolio.

Who This Guide Is For

Managing rental properties as a small landlord comes with unique challenges. Unlike large property management companies with dedicated teams, small landlords often handle everything themselves—from finding tenants to tracking expenses and coordinating maintenance.

This guide is designed for:

  • First-time property owners navigating rental management for the first time.
  • DIY landlords managing their own properties without hiring a property manager.
  • Small portfolio landlords with 1–20 rental units who need an affordable, efficient way to stay organized.
  • Landlords planning to scale who want software that grows with their portfolio without the hassle of switching platforms later.

Whether you're managing a single rental unit or expanding to a small portfolio, the right software can help you save time, reduce stress, and maximize profitability.

Small Landlord Property Management Software at a Glance

This table provides a quick side-by-side comparison.

<div style="overflow-x:auto;"><table style="width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;"><thead><tr><th style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd; width:25%;">Software</th><th style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd; width:35%;">Pricing Starts At</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">1. DoorLoop</td><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">$69/month</td></tr><tr><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">2. Innago</td><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">Tenants pay for add-ons</td></tr><tr><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">3. Landlord Studio</td><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">$12/month</td></tr><tr><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">4. Hemlane</td><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">$30/month</td></tr><tr><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">5. Baselane</td><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">Add-ons for banking & rent collection</td></tr><tr><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">6. Avail</td><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">$9/unit/month</td></tr><tr><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">7. Rentec Direct</td><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">$45/month</td></tr><tr><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">8. Stessa</td><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">$12/month</td></tr><tr><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">9. RentRedi</td><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">$29.95/month</td></tr><tr><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">10. TurboTenant</td><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">$9.92/month</td></tr><tr><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">11. TenantCloud</td><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">$16.50/month</td></tr><tr><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">12. Yardi Breeze</td><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">$100/month</td></tr><tr><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">13. SimplifyEm</td><td style="text-align:left; padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #ddd;">$40/month</td></tr></tbody></table></div>

Below, we take a closer look at each software, evaluating them based on key criteria such as affordability, ease of use, scalability, and essential features for small landlords.

1. DoorLoop

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 (692 reviews)

A Scalable Option for Small Landlords Planning to Grow

DoorLoop is ideal for small landlords looking to grow their rental portfolio with software that scales alongside them. Choosing the right platform early is crucial, as switching later involves migrating data, relearning tools, and disrupting workflows. DoorLoop eliminates that hassle as an all-in-one software priced the same whether you manage 1 unit or 20, allowing you to start small and grow without limits.

DoorLoop helps you efficiently manage properties from day one, ensuring you’ll never need to switch software as your business expands.

How DoorLoop Helps Small Landlords:

  • Scales with your portfolio – Whether you have 5 units or 50, DoorLoop grows with you, so you never have to switch platforms.
  • Automated rent collection – Get paid on time with built-in online payments, auto-reminders, and late fee tracking.
  • Easy maintenance tracking – Tenants can submit requests online, and you can assign vendors, track progress, and keep everything organized.
  • Lease management made simple – Create, store, and e-sign leases, so you’re never buried in paperwork.
  • Accounting & reports in one place – Keep track of rental income, expenses, and tax documents without needing extra software.

While a few programs offer a free solution with add-on fees, they often come with limitations. For instance, they may lack a complete accounting suite, such as double-entry bookkeeping and QuickBooks Online sync.

If you're looking for software that grows with you, provides the tools to scale your portfolio, and keeps your finances in order, DoorLoop is a solid choice. See for yourself—book a free demo today.

Pricing: 💰Paid plans start at $69/month.

2. Innago

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.9 (378 reviews)

A Free, No-Frills Option for Small Landlords

If you're managing just a few properties and want to keep costs low, Innago offers a completely free solution without sacrificing essential tools. Unlike some software that charges per unit, Innago is 100% free for landlords—no hidden fees, no subscription.

How Innago Helps Small Landlords:

  • No cost means more profits.
  • Easy rent collection with automatic reminders.
  • Simple lease management and built-in tenant screening.

Pricing: 💰Tenants pay for add-ons

3. Landlord Studio

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.9 (131 reviews)

Simplify Expense Tracking and Stay Mobile

For small landlords who need to stay on top of their finances, Landlord Studio offers robust expense tracking and mobile management tools. With features like receipt scanning, automated rent reminders, and customizable reports, it’s an excellent choice for landlords who want to simplify financial management while staying organized on the go.

How Landlord Studio Helps Small Landlords:

  • Mobile-friendly platform makes it easy to manage properties, track rent payments, and log expenses from anywhere.
  • Expense tracking with receipt scanning keeps financial records organized for tax season.
  • Customizable reporting tools help landlords generate detailed financial insights, including profit and loss statements.

Pricing: 💰Paid plans start at $12/month.

4. Hemlane

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 (185 reviews)

Hands-Off Solution with Professional Support

For small landlords who want to stay involved but prefer to outsource tasks like tenant placement or maintenance coordination, Hemlane offers a hybrid solution. With features like local agent support and 24/7 repair coordination, Hemlane is perfect for landlords who want to balance control with professional assistance.

How Hemlane Helps Small Landlords:

  • Access to local leasing agents ensures help with tenant placement, property showings, and lease signings.
  • 24/7 repair coordination connects you with vetted service providers to handle maintenance requests efficiently.
  • Tenant screening tools include detailed background, credit, and eviction checks to find reliable renters.

Pricing: 💰Paid plans start at $36.50/month, plus additional fees per unit.

5. Baselane

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 (17 reviews)

Easy Banking and Financial Management

For small landlords focused on managing rental income and expenses, Baselane provides an all-in-one financial platform. With features like high-yield banking, automated expense tracking, and financial reporting, Baselane helps landlords stay organized and maximize profitability without the need for additional tools.

How Baselane Helps Small Landlords:

  • Landlord banking accounts offer competitive APYs and tools to automate expense categorization.
  • Automated expense tracking simplifies bookkeeping, helping landlords stay prepared for tax season.
  • Comprehensive financial reporting provides insights into property performance and helps identify cost-saving opportunities.

Pricing: 💰Add-ons for banking & rent collection

6. Avail

⭐⭐⭐⭐½  4.6 (250 reviews)

Makes Lease Management & Tenant Screening Easy

For small landlords who want to find good tenants and manage leases effortlessly, Avail provides state-specific lease templates and a built-in screening process. It’s a great choice if you want a structured way to create, sign, and manage leases online without paying legal fees.

How Avail Helps Small Landlords:

  • Easy-to-use lease templates prevent legal mistakes.
  • Tenant screening tools help landlords pick reliable renters.
  • Online rent collection keeps payments organized.

Pricing: 💰Paid plans start at $9/unit/month.

7. Rentec Direct

⭐⭐⭐⭐½  4.6 (188 reviews)

Simplify Communication and Financial Management

For small landlords managing multiple tenants, Rentec Direct provides tools to streamline tenant communication and financial organization. With features like built-in tenant portals and detailed accounting tools, it’s designed to help landlords keep everything organized while staying connected with tenants.

How Rentec Direct Helps Small Landlords:

  • Tenant portals let renters pay rent online, submit maintenance requests, and access lease documents in one place.
  • Comprehensive financial tracking allows landlords to log income and expenses, generate reports, and integrate with QuickBooks for advanced bookkeeping.
  • Secure document storage ensures leases and other critical files are accessible when you need them.

Pricing: 💰Paid plans start at $45/month.

8. Stessa

⭐⭐⭐⭐½  4.6 (96 reviews)

Track Property Finances with Ease

For small landlords who want to focus on maximizing profits and simplifying bookkeeping, Stessa offers a free platform tailored for financial tracking. From automated income and expense tracking to detailed financial reports, Stessa makes it easy to stay on top of your rental portfolio’s performance without extra effort.

How Stessa Helps Small Landlords:

  • Automated income and expense tracking reduces manual data entry and ensures accuracy.
  • Real estate-specific financial reports (including profit and loss statements) simplify tax preparation and portfolio analysis.
  • Built-in rent collection tools allow landlords to collect payments online with autopay options for tenants.

Pricing: 💰Paid plans start at $12/month.

9. RentRedi

⭐⭐⭐⭐½ 4.5 (104 reviews)

Manage Properties on the Go with Ease

For small landlords who value flexibility and convenience, RentRedi provides a mobile-first platform that makes managing properties simple. Whether you're collecting rent, screening tenants, or handling maintenance requests, RentRedi's mobile app ensures you can manage your rentals anytime, anywhere.

How RentRedi Helps Small Landlords:

  • Mobile-friendly platform allows landlords and tenants to handle everything, from rent payments to communication, directly through the app.
  • Comprehensive tenant screening includes credit, background, and eviction checks, helping you find reliable tenants.
  • Maintenance management lets tenants submit requests with photos or videos, and landlords can assign tasks or track repairs in real time.

Pricing: 💰Paid plans start at $29.95/month.

10. TurboTenant

⭐⭐⭐⭐½  4.4 (75 reviews)

Find & Screen Tenants Quickly

Finding the right tenants is one of the biggest challenges for small landlords, especially if you don’t have a large budget for marketing and screening. TurboTenant makes it easy to list your rental, attract applicants, and vet tenants—all for free. With built-in listing syndication and screening tools, it simplifies the leasing process while keeping costs low.

How TurboTenant Helps Small Landlords:

  • Free rental listing syndication gets your property in front of more renters on sites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Apartments.com.
  • Tenant screening reports (credit, background, and eviction history) help you make informed leasing decisions.
  • Automated rent collection ensures you get paid on time without chasing down tenants.

Pricing: 💰Paid plans start at $9.92/month.

11. TenantCloud

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.3 (401 reviews)

Streamline Rent Collection & Maintenance Requests

Managing multiple properties can become overwhelming, especially as you try to keep up with rent payments and maintenance tasks. TenantCloud simplifies the process by combining rent collection, maintenance tracking, and tenant communication in one platform. It’s an affordable choice for landlords managing a small portfolio who want to save time and stay organized.

How TenantCloud Helps Small Landlords:

  • Online rent collection makes it easy for tenants to pay via ACH or credit card while providing real-time tracking for landlords.
  • Maintenance tracking lets tenants submit requests online and allows landlords to assign tasks and track progress seamlessly.
  • Built-in accounting tools help landlords keep their finances organized for tax season.

Pricing:💰Paid plans start at $16.50/month.

12. Yardi Breeze

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.2 (270 reviews)

Professional Tools for Growing Portfolios

Small landlords managing larger portfolios or planning to scale will appreciate the professional-grade tools offered by Yardi Breeze. Designed to handle complex tasks like tenant tracking, financial reporting, and maintenance requests, Yardi Breeze ensures landlords can stay organized as their business grows.

How Yardi Breeze Helps Small Landlords:

  • Comprehensive tenant tracking lets you monitor rent payments, lease terms, and tenant details effortlessly.
  • Built-in accounting tools provide detailed financial reporting, including profit and loss statements and tax-ready documentation.
  • Maintenance request management simplifies coordinating repairs and ensures timely resolutions.

Pricing: 💰Paid plans start at $100/month.

13. SimplifyEm

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.0 (131 reviews)

Track Expenses and Stay Organized Without Complexity

For small landlords who prefer a straightforward approach to property management, SimplifyEm focuses on what matters most: tracking income, expenses, and tenant information. It’s ideal for small landlords managing a few units who want to keep their finances in order without complicated features they don’t need.

How SimplifyEm Helps Small Landlords:

  • Rental income and expense tracking makes tax preparation easier and helps landlords stay financially organized.
  • Tenant and lease management tools let landlords store important documents, track rent payments, and manage tenant details in one place.
  • QuickBooks integration provides advanced accounting options for those who need it.

Pricing: 💰Paid plans start at $40/month.

How to Choose the Right Property Management Software Based on Your Portfolio Size

The best property management software for small landlords depends not just on features and pricing but also on the size of your portfolio. A landlord managing a single unit has different needs than one handling multiple properties, and the right software should match those needs while allowing room for growth.

For small portfolios (1-3 units), simplicity and affordability matter most—basic tools for rent collection and tenant screening are usually enough. As your portfolio grows (4-8 units), time-saving automation and maintenance tracking become more important. Once you reach 8+ units, a full-featured platform with accounting, CRM, and scalability becomes essential to streamline operations and support long-term growth.

Here's how to find the best software for your portfolio size:

🟢 1-3 Rental Units - Keep It Simple & Low-Cost

Biggest challenges: Finding tenants, rent collection, and staying organized.

  • Look for: Free or budget-friendly software with essential tools like rent collection, maintenance tracking, and tenant screening.
  • Best choices: Innago, Avail, TurboTenant

🟡 4-8 Rental Units - Automate & Save Time

Biggest challenges: Managing payments, tracking expenses, and reducing manual work.

  • Look for: Software with automation, maintenance tracking, and basic accounting.
  • Best choices: TenantCloud, RentRedi, SimplifyEm

🔴 8+ Rental Units - Plan for Growth

Biggest challenges: Scalability, advanced reporting, and full-service management.

  • Look for: Software with full accounting tools, CRM, and owner/tenant portals.
  • Best choices: DoorLoop, Rentec Direct, Landlord Studio

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Software for You?

The right property management software makes all the difference in keeping your rentals organized, profitable, and stress-free. Whether you need a simple free tool or a full-service solution, the best choice depends on:

  • Portfolio Size – Are you managing just one unit, a small portfolio, or planning to scale?
  • Budget – Do you need a completely free option, or are you willing to invest in premium features
  • Features – Do you need basic rent collection and tenant screening, or a comprehensive all-in-one software?
  • Accounting - Do you need basic accounting or a full accounting suite for growing portfolios that syncs with QuickBooks?

Still weighing your options? Explore free trials or schedule a free demo with DoorLoop to see if it’s the right fit for your portfolio.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is QuickBooks suitable for small landlords?

Yes, QuickBooks is suitable for small landlords. It helps manage rental income, track expenses, and generate financial reports. However, it may lack some property management-specific features such as tenant screening, lease management, maintenance tracking, and rent collection.

Does Quickbooks integrate with property management software?

Yes, QuickBooks integrates with various property management software. These integrations allow for a quick transfer of financial data, simplifying accounting tasks and improving efficiency in managing rental properties. Specific integrations depend on the property management software used.

Do small landlords need a property manager?

Not necessarily. Many small landlords successfully manage their own properties using property management software, which automates tasks like rent collection, lease tracking, and maintenance requests. If you have just a few units and want to maximize profits, a DIY approach with the right tools can be cost-effective. However, if you own multiple properties, live far from your rentals, or prefer a hands-off approach, hiring a property manager may be worth the investment.

Is property management software worth it for landlords with only one rental?

Yes, property management software can be worth it even for landlords with just one rental. While it may seem unnecessary for a single property, software can help streamline key tasks like rent collection, lease management, expense tracking, and tenant communication—saving time and reducing the risk of missed payments or paperwork errors. If you plan to acquire more properties in the future, starting with software early can also make scaling your portfolio much smoother.

David Bitton brings over two decades of experience as a real estate investor and co-founder at DoorLoop. A former Forbes Technology Council member and legal CLE speaker, he's a best-selling author, keynote speaker, and thought leader with mentions in Fortune, Insider, Forbes, HubSpot, and Nasdaq.

Legal Disclaimer

The information on this website is from public sources, for informational purposes only and not intended for legal or accounting advice. DoorLoop does not guarantee its accuracy and is not liable for any damages or inaccuracies.

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