Quick Overview
- 1#1: RentSpree - Provides online rental applications with instant tenant screening including credit, criminal, and eviction checks.
- 2#2: Avail - Offers customizable online rental applications, tenant screening, and full property management tools for landlords.
- 3#3: TurboTenant - Delivers free online rental applications, background checks, and lease management for independent landlords.
- 4#4: SmartMove - Tenant screening platform with reusable credit reports and rental application integration for property managers.
- 5#5: MyRental - Customizable rental applications powered by TransUnion screening for quick applicant approvals.
- 6#6: RentRedi - Mobile-first platform for rental applications, automated screening, and rent collection.
- 7#7: DoorLoop - All-in-one property management software with online leasing applications and AI-powered screening.
- 8#8: Buildium - Cloud-based property management with resident screening portals and online application tracking.
- 9#9: AppFolio - Comprehensive property management solution featuring online leasing, applications, and applicant management.
- 10#10: Hemlane - Rental platform providing online applications, e-signing, and integrated tenant screening services.
We ranked these tools based on feature breadth, screening accuracy, user-friendliness, and overall value, prioritizing those that balance functionality with practicality for streamlined workflows.
Comparison Table
Rental application software simplifies tenant screening and application workflows, and this comparison table highlights top tools like RentSpree, Avail, TurboTenant, SmartMove, MyRental, and more. It equips readers to evaluate features, pricing, and usability to select the best solution for their property management needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | RentSpree Provides online rental applications with instant tenant screening including credit, criminal, and eviction checks. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Avail Offers customizable online rental applications, tenant screening, and full property management tools for landlords. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.7/10 |
| 3 | TurboTenant Delivers free online rental applications, background checks, and lease management for independent landlords. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 4 | SmartMove Tenant screening platform with reusable credit reports and rental application integration for property managers. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 5 | MyRental Customizable rental applications powered by TransUnion screening for quick applicant approvals. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 6 | RentRedi Mobile-first platform for rental applications, automated screening, and rent collection. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 7 | DoorLoop All-in-one property management software with online leasing applications and AI-powered screening. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 8 | Buildium Cloud-based property management with resident screening portals and online application tracking. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | AppFolio Comprehensive property management solution featuring online leasing, applications, and applicant management. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Hemlane Rental platform providing online applications, e-signing, and integrated tenant screening services. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 |
Provides online rental applications with instant tenant screening including credit, criminal, and eviction checks.
Offers customizable online rental applications, tenant screening, and full property management tools for landlords.
Delivers free online rental applications, background checks, and lease management for independent landlords.
Tenant screening platform with reusable credit reports and rental application integration for property managers.
Customizable rental applications powered by TransUnion screening for quick applicant approvals.
Mobile-first platform for rental applications, automated screening, and rent collection.
All-in-one property management software with online leasing applications and AI-powered screening.
Cloud-based property management with resident screening portals and online application tracking.
Comprehensive property management solution featuring online leasing, applications, and applicant management.
Rental platform providing online applications, e-signing, and integrated tenant screening services.
RentSpree
specializedProvides online rental applications with instant tenant screening including credit, criminal, and eviction checks.
Certified Application with biometric verification to ensure applicant authenticity and eliminate fake submissions
RentSpree is a leading rental application software that streamlines the tenant screening process for landlords and property managers. It offers comprehensive background checks, credit reports, eviction history, and income verification through a user-friendly online platform. The service integrates seamlessly with property management systems and MLS listings, enabling quick applicant approvals and fraud prevention via certified applications.
Pros
- Comprehensive screening including credit, criminal, eviction, and employment verification
- Certified Application feature prevents fraud with identity verification
- Seamless integrations with popular property management software like AppFolio and Yardi
Cons
- Pay-per-report pricing can add up for high-volume users without subscriptions
- Advanced features like custom reports require higher-tier plans
- Occasional delays in third-party report processing during peak times
Best For
Landlords and property managers seeking a robust, all-in-one tenant screening solution for efficient and secure rental applications.
Pricing
Pay-per-use screenings start at $29.95 for basic reports, with subscription plans from $39/month for unlimited basic checks and volume discounts.
Avail
specializedOffers customizable online rental applications, tenant screening, and full property management tools for landlords.
Free, in-depth tenant screening reports (credit, criminal, eviction, and income verification) with no per-report fees for basic users
Avail (avail.co) is a comprehensive property management platform tailored for individual landlords and small property managers, specializing in streamlining the rental application process with free online listings, customizable applications, and integrated tenant screening. It provides instant access to credit reports, criminal background checks, eviction history, and income verification powered by TransUnion, enabling quick applicant evaluations. Beyond applications, Avail supports e-signing leases, automated rent collection via ACH, and maintenance request tracking, offering an all-in-one solution for efficient rental management.
Pros
- Free core features including listings, applications, and basic tenant screening
- Comprehensive, TransUnion-powered screening with fast results
- Intuitive dashboard and mobile app for seamless management
Cons
- Advanced screening and unlimited properties require paid Pro plans
- Limited customization options for larger portfolios
- Customer support primarily email-based with no live chat
Best For
Ideal for independent landlords and small-scale property managers (1-50 units) seeking a free, user-friendly tool for rental applications and basic screening.
Pricing
Free basic plan for listings, applications, and screening up to 15 units; Super plan at $7/unit/month; Premium at $10/unit/month for unlimited features.
TurboTenant
specializedDelivers free online rental applications, background checks, and lease management for independent landlords.
100% free core platform with no subscription fees or limits on listings/applications
TurboTenant is a comprehensive property management platform designed primarily for independent landlords and small property managers, offering free tools to post rental listings, collect online applications, and perform tenant screenings. It includes credit checks, criminal background, eviction history, and income verification, with applicants covering screening fees. The software also supports rent collection, electronic leases, and maintenance requests, streamlining the entire rental process from listing to ongoing management.
Pros
- Completely free for landlords with unlimited listings and applications
- Fast, automated tenant screening with detailed reports
- Intuitive interface and mobile app for on-the-go management
Cons
- Limited advanced customization and reporting options
- Fewer third-party integrations compared to premium competitors
- Customer support primarily email-based with no phone option
Best For
Independent landlords and small property owners looking for a no-cost, straightforward solution to handle rental applications and basic screening.
Pricing
Free for landlords (revenue from applicant-paid screenings at $35-$55 per report); optional premium features available.
SmartMove
specializedTenant screening platform with reusable credit reports and rental application integration for property managers.
TransUnion-powered credit and multi-jurisdictional criminal searches for superior data accuracy and nationwide coverage
SmartMove, powered by TransUnion, is a comprehensive online tenant screening platform designed for landlords and property managers to process rental applications efficiently. It provides instant access to credit reports, criminal background checks, eviction histories, and income verification through customizable screening packages. The service streamlines the applicant experience with mobile-friendly forms and integrates with popular property management software for seamless data flow.
Pros
- Highly accurate data from TransUnion's extensive database including credit, criminal, and eviction records
- Fast results with reports delivered in minutes and easy applicant self-service
- Flexible integrations with property management tools like AppFolio and Buildium
Cons
- Pay-per-report pricing model adds up quickly for high-volume users
- Limited customization options for screening criteria compared to some competitors
- Primarily US-focused with minimal international support
Best For
Small to mid-sized landlords and independent property managers seeking reliable, on-demand tenant screening without long-term subscriptions.
Pricing
Pay-per-use starting at $19.95 for credit-only reports, $39.95-$49.95 for full screenings; volume discounts available for frequent users.
MyRental
specializedCustomizable rental applications powered by TransUnion screening for quick applicant approvals.
Landlord-free model where applicants cover all screening costs, eliminating expenses for property owners
MyRental is a user-friendly online platform that simplifies the rental application process for landlords and property managers by allowing tenants to submit applications, upload documents, and complete background screenings. It provides customizable application forms, automated credit checks, criminal background reports, and eviction history verification. The service emphasizes quick setup and mobile accessibility, making it ideal for handling multiple applications efficiently.
Pros
- Free for landlords with no subscription fees
- Quick and intuitive setup with customizable forms
- Comprehensive tenant screening including credit, criminal, and eviction checks
Cons
- Limited integrations with property management software
- Basic reporting and analytics compared to enterprise tools
- Relies on tenant-paid fees which may slow application volume
Best For
Independent landlords and small property managers looking for a no-cost, straightforward solution to screen tenants.
Pricing
Free for landlords; tenants pay $29.95 for basic credit report or $39.95 for full screening package.
RentRedi
specializedMobile-first platform for rental applications, automated screening, and rent collection.
Instant, no-setup-fee tenant screening with bundled credit, criminal, eviction, and flood checks directly in the application workflow
RentRedi is an all-in-one property management platform designed for landlords and small property managers, with a strong focus on streamlining the rental application process through online submissions and instant tenant screening. It provides comprehensive background checks including credit reports, criminal history, eviction records, and income verification, all accessible via a user-friendly web and mobile app. Beyond applications, it integrates rent collection, e-sign leases, maintenance requests, and basic accounting, making it suitable for hands-on rental operations.
Pros
- Affordable per-unit pricing model ideal for small portfolios
- Seamless integration of tenant screening and application management
- Intuitive mobile app for on-the-go property management
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and customization options
- Occasional app glitches and slower updates
- Customer support can have variable response times
Best For
Small landlords and independent property managers with 1-100 units looking for a budget-friendly, all-in-one rental application and management solution.
Pricing
Starts at $1 per unit/month (Starter plan), $2/unit/month (Growth), up to $3/unit/month (Premium); 14-day free trial, screening fees passed to tenants.
DoorLoop
enterpriseAll-in-one property management software with online leasing applications and AI-powered screening.
One-click integrated tenant screening powered by TransUnion and SmartMove for instant, detailed reports directly in the dashboard
DoorLoop is an all-in-one property management platform that includes robust rental application tools, allowing landlords and property managers to create customizable online applications, collect fees, and run comprehensive tenant screenings including credit, criminal, and eviction reports. It integrates seamlessly with leasing, rent collection, maintenance requests, and accounting features for end-to-end property management. The software emphasizes automation and mobile accessibility to simplify the rental process from application to move-in.
Pros
- Comprehensive tenant screening with one-click credit, criminal, and eviction checks
- Customizable application forms and automated workflows for quick approvals
- Integrated with full property management suite for seamless leasing and payments
Cons
- Advanced screening reports require higher-tier plans
- Steeper learning curve for users new to all-in-one platforms
- Limited free tier; full application features need paid subscription
Best For
Small to mid-sized property managers and landlords seeking an integrated solution for handling rental applications alongside daily operations.
Pricing
Starts at $59/month (Essential plan for up to 20 units), $99/month (Pro for unlimited units), with custom Enterprise pricing; free rental application portal available.
Buildium
enterpriseCloud-based property management with resident screening portals and online application tracking.
Integrated TransUnion SmartMove screening that delivers instant, decision-ready reports directly within the application workflow
Buildium is a comprehensive property management software that includes a dedicated rental application module, enabling landlords and property managers to collect online applications, fees, and conduct tenant screening. It integrates seamlessly with TransUnion for credit, criminal, and eviction checks, streamlining the approval process within the broader platform. Beyond applications, it handles leasing, rent collection, and maintenance, making it suitable for full-cycle property management.
Pros
- Seamless integration of rental applications with full property management tools
- Comprehensive tenant screening via TransUnion including credit, background, and eviction reports
- Customizable application forms and online fee collection
Cons
- Higher pricing makes it less ideal for users needing only rental applications
- Steeper learning curve due to extensive feature set
- Limited customization for standalone application workflows
Best For
Property managers and landlords with portfolios of 20+ units seeking an all-in-one solution that includes rental applications.
Pricing
Starts at $58/month for up to 20 units (Growth plan), scaling to $325+/month for larger portfolios; additional per-application screening fees apply.
AppFolio
enterpriseComprehensive property management solution featuring online leasing, applications, and applicant management.
Integrated TransUnion SmartMove screening delivering instant credit, criminal, eviction, and income verification reports directly in the platform
AppFolio is a full-featured property management platform with robust rental application capabilities, enabling landlords and property managers to accept online applications, process payments, and conduct comprehensive tenant screenings seamlessly. It integrates credit, criminal, eviction, and employment verification through partners like TransUnion SmartMove, streamlining the leasing workflow from inquiry to move-in. The software also supports e-signatures for leases and automated notifications, making it suitable for managing multiple properties efficiently.
Pros
- Comprehensive integrated tenant screening with TransUnion SmartMove
- Seamless online application and e-signature process
- Strong mobile app for property managers on the go
Cons
- Higher pricing with unit minimums, less ideal for small landlords
- Full suite can have a learning curve for new users
- Additional fees for premium screening reports
Best For
Mid-to-large property management companies handling 50+ units that need an all-in-one platform for applications and ongoing tenant management.
Pricing
Core platform starts at $1.40 per unit/month (50-unit minimum, $280/month max for small portfolios); screening fees $29.95-$39.95 per applicant.
Hemlane
specializedRental platform providing online applications, e-signing, and integrated tenant screening services.
Seamless applicant-to-tenant workflow with automated e-signing and instant rent collection setup
Hemlane is an all-in-one property management platform with strong rental application capabilities, enabling landlords to create customizable online applications, collect fees, and perform integrated tenant screening including credit, criminal, and eviction checks. It streamlines the leasing process with e-signature lease agreements and automated rent collection, transitioning applicants smoothly into tenants. Ideal for small-scale property owners, it also handles maintenance requests and basic accounting.
Pros
- Intuitive online application portal with customizable forms
- Built-in tenant screening powered by TransUnion and others
- Affordable pricing with a free tier for basic use
Cons
- Limited advanced customization for applications
- Customer support can be slow for non-premium users
- Fewer integrations compared to enterprise-level competitors
Best For
Small landlords and independent property managers with 1-50 units seeking an affordable, user-friendly rental application and management tool.
Pricing
Free plan for up to 3 units; paid plans start at $5.99/unit/month (Starter) up to $9.99/unit/month (Pro), billed annually.
Conclusion
Selecting the right rental application software requires balancing features like screening efficiency, customization, and management tools. RentSpree leads as the top choice, offering seamless instant screening, while Avail and TurboTenant stand out as strong alternatives—Avail for comprehensive property management and TurboTenant for free, independent landlord needs. Each tool delivers unique value to simplify rental workflows, catering to diverse user priorities.
Begin with RentSpree to unlock streamlined applications, instant screening, and easier tenant management—start today to transform your rental operations.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
Referenced in the comparison table and product reviews above.
