How do letting agents know which technology partner is right for them?

28 October 2024

Discover how letting agents can choose the right technology partner to boost efficiency, streamline operations, and support long-term agency growth.

The right technology partner can improve productivity and ensure compliance, which can grow an agency and win more landlords. Once your agency is ready to make that change, the next step is to find the right technology partner.

Otherwise, maintaining the same processes with increased paperwork and processes can quickly drain you and your agency’s time and resources.

But with so many options available, how do you choose the one that best supports your agency’s needs?

Here are some key things to consider to help find the right partner for your agency:

Aligning with your goals

You need to consider first whether the technology partner aligns with your agency’s business goals.

Every agency has different priorities, from growing the managed portfolio to improving compliance or offering better landlord protection. A strong partner will help you achieve these goals, not just offer a one-size-fits-all solution.

Outline your agency’s specific objectives and assess how well the potential partner’s platform supports them.

For example, if collecting and reconciling rent is a pain point, the platform should offer automation features that save time and reduce errors. If compliance is a priority, the technology should simplify regulatory processes to ensure your agency stays up-to-date with the latest legislation.

Protect what you’ve built 

It’s important to ensure the new platform doesn’t disrupt your existing processes or compromise your agency's achievements.

Having a partner that seamlessly integrates with your current property management software is essential to maximising efficiency. You don’t want a technology partner that requires you to start from scratch or causes unnecessary complications.

When evaluating a potential partner, ask about their integration capabilities and whether their solution will complement your current systems.

Functionality that adds value

The right technology partner should offer features that address your agency’s challenges and support future growth. Look for platforms that provide value beyond the basics.

For example, some solutions, such as Goodlord, streamline rent collection and offer additional services like rent protection insurance or utility management, helping you generate additional revenue while simplifying your operations.

Evaluate the platform's ability to add value now and in the future. Will it help you attract new landlords? Can it reduce the time your team spends on administrative tasks? Will it support your expansion into new areas or specialisations?

Return on investment

Cost is important, but the key is whether the platform's return on investment (ROI) outweighs the price. A well-chosen technology can streamline operations, free up your team's time to focus on acquiring new landlords, and even unlock new revenue opportunities.

Evaluate whether the platform will help you attract more landlords, simplify administrative processes, or enhance your services. If it delivers on these fronts, the investment will likely pay off, driving both growth and efficiency for your agency.

Long-term support

Look for a technology partner that supports your agency's long-term growth. The lettings industry is always evolving, with new legislation, market shifts, and technological advancements. A partner like Goodlord, which continuously updates its platform and provides ongoing support, will help your agency stay ahead.

The right partner will offer new features and guide you through regulatory changes, ensuring your agency remains competitive. By aligning with a partner who meets your goals and delivers essential functionality, your agency can thrive in an ever-changing market.

Further reading