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AppFolio vs Buildium: Which Is The Best Property Software?

Updated on 03 Sep 2024

OneBrowsing

 4.5

Price Ranges: $50 - $250

 4.5

(Reviews: 1.2K)

Est. users: 180K

Price Ranges: $50 - $160 - $460

AppFolio vs Buildium

AppFolio and Buildium are both property management software solutions, but they cater to slightly different markets. AppFolio tends to focus on a more modern, user-friendly interface with robust mobile capabilities and features tailored for smaller to mid-sized property management companies, while Buildium offers comprehensive accounting features and is often preferred by larger property managers with diverse portfolios. Additionally, Buildium provides more extensive tenant communication tools, whereas AppFolio excels in its streamlined property marketing capabilities.

AppFolio

  1. User-friendly interface and navigation
  2. Cloud-based property management
  3. Integrated online payment options
  4. Mobile app for on-the-go access
  5. Built-in marketing tools for listings
  6. Strong customer support and resources
  7. Customizable reporting features
  8. Focused on residential property management

Buildium

  1. Comprehensive accounting features
  2. Tenant and lease tracking capabilities
  3. Maintenance request management system
  4. Integration with multiple listing services
  5. Bulk communication with tenants
  6. Emphasis on community association management
  7. More affordable for small properties
  8. Robust tenant screening tools

Key Differences

  1. User Interface

    AppFolio has a more modern and intuitive user interface compared to Buildium, making it easier for users to navigate and manage their properties efficiently.

    Winner: AppFolio

  2. Pricing Structure

    Buildium offers more flexibility in pricing plans with options tailored for smaller property managers, which can be more budget-friendly for startups.

    Winner: Buildium

  3. Features for Larger Portfolios

    AppFolio provides advanced features specifically designed for larger property portfolios, making it a better choice for companies managing a significant number of properties.

    Winner: AppFolio

  4. Customer Support

    Buildium is noted for its robust customer support and resources, which can be advantageous for users who require frequent assistance.

    Winner: Buildium

  5. Mobile App Functionality

    AppFolio has a highly-rated mobile app offering comprehensive features that allow property managers to handle tasks on the go effectively.

    Winner: AppFolio

  6. Online Payment Options

    Both AppFolio and Buildium offer online payment capabilities, but AppFolio's integration with various payment methods is generally seen as more seamless.

    Winner: AppFolio

Distinct Features

AppFolioBuildium
Online Maintenance Requests with photosInvestor portal for transparency
Automated tenant screening including background checksAssociation management tools
Integrated marketing tools for listing propertiesMore comprehensive report customization options
Customizable tenant portalMaintenance management with contractors' network
Mobile app for property management on-the-goBuilt-in accounting features specific to property management
Automated late fee calculationIntegrated tenant and lease tracking
Workflow management tools for property managersCommunity association management tools
Built-in property management blogTenant lease renewals automation
Online rent payment with credit card optionsFlexible pricing plans for various business sizes
Support for commercial property managementAccounting integrations with third-party services

Pricing Overview

AppFolio

View Pricing Plans  

  1. Basic Plan ($50) - Suitable for individuals or small property management firms
  2. Plus Plan ($250) - Suited for medium to large property management companies

Basic Plan

$50 / Monthly

Ideal for smaller property portfolios

  • Online Owner Portal

  • Maintenance Requests

  • Professional Websites

  • Owner Statement & Direct Deposit

Plus Plan

$250 / Monthly

Advanced tools for growing businesses

  • Basic Plan features

  • Leasing & Marketing

  • Renters Insurance

  • Utility Management

Buildium

View Pricing Plans  

  1. Essential ($50) - Best for individual landlords or small property managers
  2. Growth ($160) - Suitable for growing property management businesses
  3. Premium ($460) - Recommended for agencies managing numerous properties

Essential

$50 / per month

Ideal for smaller portfolios looking for modern, easy-to-use software.

  • Online Payments

  • Rent Tracking

  • General Ledger

  • 1099 eFiling

Growth

$160 / per month

Designed for expanding businesses that need advanced financial tools.

  • Essential features plus

  • Multiple Bank Accounts

  • Budgeting

  • Customizable Reports

Premium

$460 / per month

Comprehensive solution for larger portfolios that require efficiency and automation.

  • Growth features plus

  • Resident Portal

  • Task Work Orders

  • E-Lease

Indepth Overview

AppFolioBuildium
User Interface
Modern interface ★4.8 - Easy to use and visually appealing
Customizable dashboard ★4.5 - Allows users to personalize their dashboard
Traditional interface ★4.2 - Simple and straightforward design
Limited customization options ★3.8 - Users have fewer options to personalize their dashboard
Property Management Features
Tenant screening ★4.7 - Comprehensive background checks ★4.4 - Basic background checks
Maintenance request tracking ★4.6 - Streamlines maintenance management ★4.5 - Efficient maintenance management
Accounting and Financials
Full accounting system ★4.6 - Complete financial management
Online rent payments ★4.5 - Convenient and secure payment options ★4.6 - Easy rent collection through the tenant portal
Basic accounting features ★4.2 - Core financial functions
Communication and Collaboration
Built-in messaging ★4.7 - Direct communication with tenants and owners
Document sharing ★4.4 - Allows sharing of files and documents ★4.5 - Enables file sharing with tenants and owners
Communication tracking ★4.3 - Tracks tenant communication history
Marketing and Listing
Listing syndication ★4.6 - Automatically advertise vacancies on various websites ★4.3 - Advertises vacancies on popular listing sites
Customizable property websites ★4.7 - Attractive and customizable property listings ★4.4 - Offers limited customization options for property listings
Mobile App
Fully-featured mobile app ★4.5 - Provides access to all key features on mobile devices
Mobile maintenance requests ★4.6 - Allows tenants to submit maintenance requests from their smartphones
Limited mobile app functionality ★3.8 - Offers access to basic property management tasks
No mobile maintenance requests ★3.5 - Lacks the ability to submit maintenance requests through the app
Unusual Features
Online rental applications ★4.7 - Allows tenants to apply for properties digitally
Self-guided property tours ★4.6 - Offers virtual tours for rental properties
Automated tenant screening ★4.4 - Utilizes artificial intelligence for tenant background checks
Community portals ★4.3 - Provides community-specific forums for residents

Comparision Reviews

Sophia Turner

San Francisco, CA

AppFolio shines in user interface design and ease of use, making it a great option for newcomers. However, Buildium offers more robust reporting capabilities and deeper functionality for advanced users. If you prioritize simplicity over complexity, AppFolio may be the better choice, but for seasoned property managers needing detailed insights, Buildium is preferable.

AppFolio 4.2

Buildium 3.9

Ethan Brown

Austin, TX

While both AppFolio and Buildium are strong contenders in property management software, AppFolio has the edge with its customer service and faster response times. Buildium, on the other hand, is slightly less intuitive, which can be frustrating at times. Ultimately, if you value excellent support, AppFolio is recommended, but Buildium has its merits in extensive features.

AppFolio 4.5

Buildium 4

Olivia Johnson

New York, NY

In terms of pricing, Buildium may come off as more competitive for smaller businesses, offering a range of plans. Yet, AppFolio often justifies its cost with superior automation features that can save considerable time. For budget-conscious users, Buildium is worth the consideration, but AppFolio provides greater long-term value.

AppFolio 4

Buildium 4.2

Liam Smith

Chicago, IL

Both platforms excel in mobile functionality; however, AppFolio’s app is smoother and more user-friendly. Buildium has improved, yet it can occasionally lag and show glitches. If an efficient mobile experience is essential for your operations, AppFolio might be the preferred option.

AppFolio 4.6

Buildium 3.7

Ava Clark

Seattle, WA

Buildium offers strong tenant communication features, particularly in terms of messaging and notifications, which is quite valuable for tenant relations. AppFolio, however, provides a smoother experience for financial management and payment processing. Depending on whether your focus is on tenant interaction or financial oversight, either could be the better tool.

AppFolio 4.1

Buildium 4.4

Comments

Jake Thompson
Hey team! Let's dive into this AppFolio vs Buildium debate. I've heard Buildium is better for property management. What do you all think?
Sarah Miller
I used both! AppFolio has some wicked automation features. I mean, who doesn’t love setting things on autopilot? 🚀
TechGuru_99
Lol, Jake! Honestly, it boils down to your needs. Buildium is pretty straightforward, which is great for newbies. But AppFolio feels more like a full package deal.
Emily Chen
True, but AppFolio’s pricing can hit hard for small landlords. What about user support? I heard Buildium's customer service is rock solid.
Mark Robinson
Buildium is definitely easier on the wallet for smaller operations, but I guess you pay for what you get.
Jake Thompson
Cost does matter, but think of the time saved using the tech! Time is money, right? 😉
Sarah Miller
Exactly! Plus, AppFolio scores points for integration with other tools. You can manage a lot from one place. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of property management! 🔧
TechGuru_99
That’s a good point! But then again, some say too many features can be overwhelming. How does everyone feel about that?
Emily Chen
Overwhelming? That’s the name of the game in tech! 😂 But I agree! A balance between functionality and simplicity is key. Anyone tried switching platforms?
Mark Robinson
I switched from Buildium to AppFolio because of the analytics tools. The insights I got were game-changing for my investments.

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