How Dawsons takes a "technology-first approach" to lettings

The result: A more successful business

Using RentTech isn't just about business efficiencies. With Goodlord, agents can choose to offer extra products and services to help them earn more, and keep current customers happy.

"Goodlord has definitely helped us replace some of the lost revenue from the dip in 'new let' numbers we're seeing, with the current supply and demand imbalance,"  says Ricky.

"We take advantage of the additional revenue streams through the products we can offer to our customers. Plus, we see Goodlord as a client retention tool, as it brings landlords such added value."

For its customers, a Goodlord service that Ricky has found particularly valuable is rent protection. "Goodlord's Rent Protection Insurance is a no-brainer, it’s a great tool. It’s a question of enhancing our service to landlords," says Ricky.

However, it's not only Dawsons' landlords that benefit from extras through Goodlord. "Offering Tenants Contents and Liability Insurance is another easy way to ensure our tenants are accessing a whole range of products to help make their rental experience as good as it can be."

Feature highlight: Performance statistics and insights

An integrated lettings process with a RentTech company like Goodlord often also means access to key performance data. Goodlord's data can help agencies compare themselves against lettings activities in their local area and at a national level - as well as against their own performance to previous months.  

"We work across five locations. Through Goodlord, I can see snapshots as a business of where we are, what's working, what's not - and what we can improve," says Ricky. "We now have a member of the team tasked with expectations of their role, to monitor our stats on a fortnightly basis, liaising with all of our offices."

Data can also help agencies to forecast and plan for the future. "We can use our Goodlord data from busy periods to see pinch points and, as a by-product, accommodate additional members of the team or support to an office ahead of there being an issue," says Ricky.

"For example, we look at how busy June would be from a student turnover perspective, to understand how busy we are then, versus July and the following months. And then in September as well as October - those stats on new lets or renewals are helping us shape our diaries."

Top tips for new integrations

When introducing new technology to its business, Dawsons has a set process to help make sure it goes smoothly. "Anything that we integrate with, we pick a set office and a core set of people to use and champion the new tech throughout all our offices."

The teams are then encouraged to engage with all relevant training resources, to make sure that everyone's at the same level. "Our team can refresh their Goodlord knowledge in their customer centre, and the videos form a key part of our 12-week probation," says Ricky.

About Dawsons

Dawsons has a network of lettings offices, supported by a sales network, with a diverse set of tenants and landlords properties. It's starting to expand its reach in Wales, to offer more variety and opportunities to prospective tenants and landlords in what is a difficult market when stock numbers are lower than they've ever been.