Cloud-Based Apps Can Make Your Life As a Landlord Easier

August 13, 2018 Off By David

Article Written by Sally Perkins

Not so long ago, cloud computing seemed like something out of a science fiction storyline. Instead of dedicating space for information, programs, and applications on your own hard drive, you can just pop onto the internet and access all of the data from any place. These days, more applications and programs are moving to the cloud for greater accessibility and flexibility.

As a landlord, you have a job that requires 24/7 diligence. You never know when a water heater could start leaking or a tenant could have a security emergency. Thankfully, cloud-based applications can actually make your job easier and your tenants’ experience in your units better.

 

Cloud Accounting Systems Are Perfect for Busy Landlords

Cloud accounting software is the financial future. Long gone are the days when you had a paper ledger for your business that you referred to for everything. These days, you can take your financial records anywhere with you. By using a cloud accounting system, you can make it much easier and quicker to maintain accurate financial data. Anyone on your staff can access financial data from their computers or mobile devices. You can outsource accounting to a professional firm that receives new data in real time.

Cloud accounting also means you can quickly access records while dealing with real-world issues.  That way, if a tenant calls with an issue, you can verify all the financial details on the spot. It can also make tracking rental payments easier, even if you’re out of town.

Property Management Apps Streamline Listing Units

Finding new tenants and listing your units when they are vacant is a time-consuming process. Many landlords pay a premium to property managers to handle all those details. However, you can keep your costs low and increase your profit margin by eliminating the outside position and upgrading to a cloud-based listing/management application.

Each time of unit becomes available, you can add it to your app. Pictures, details about location, and information about the amenities can be saved from rental agreement to rental agreement. You can update certain terms or add new photos, but you won’t have to go through the stress of creating a new listing each time the unit turns over.

More importantly, digital listing apps with cloud-based storage allow you to quickly place your listing online and you a bowl for potential renters when it becomes vacant. Instead of needing several days to create something and get it out onto the web, it can be a very fast and streamlined process.

Invest In a Cloud-Based Security System

As a landlord, you are required to provide safe and secure facilities to your tenants. Maintaining the physical components of your property is one important step. Adequate lighting, safety rails, and secure doors are all important.

However, no amount of security can totally deter potential criminals. Modern camera equipment is more affordable and reliable than older systems.  You can place motion sensors or cameras around the exterior and shared interior spaces of your unit.

Integrating motion sensors in cameras with a digital security app ensures you will know when something happens in one of your properties. You can receive notifications right to your phone and watch a live feed of what is happening. That can ensure that you contact law enforcement when necessary or override an alarm if it is simply a tenant. Cloud-based security helps protect your investment, and it keeps your tenants safe.

Even small-time private landlords can benefit from cloud-based applications. Think about the parts of your job that are the most time-consuming and expensive. Then, look into the cloud-based apps available. Whether you have one building or 50, modern apps can make your job a lot simpler.

##

About the Author

Sally Perkins is a professional freelance writer with many years experience across many different areas. She made the move to freelancing from a stressful corporate job and loves the work-life balance it offers her. When not at work, Sally enjoys reading, hiking, spending time with her family and travelling as much as possible.