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Today’s renters expect leasing to be as seamless and intuitive as ordering dinner or booking a ride. With smartphones in hand and digital habits ingrained, prospective residents are no longer content with outdated, paper-heavy processes. They want immediacy, transparency and flexibility—from the first inquiry to the final signature.
For multifamily operators, meeting these expectations isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a competitive necessity. Digital-first leasing is transforming the renter journey and delivering tangible benefits for both residents and operators. SmartRent helps bridge this gap by offering the technology needed to reduce friction, improve conversions and deliver a better leasing experience at scale.
Today’s renters expect a digital experience
We’re living in a digital-first world. Whether it’s shopping, banking or healthcare, almost everything is just a tap away. Renters expect the same level of accessibility and convenience when it comes to finding a home.
That means browsing listings online, chatting with leasing agents instantly, touring units on their own time and applying without ever stepping into an office. They want control—and they want it from their mobile device.
Smart technology helps operators keep pace by digitizing every touchpoint along the leasing journey. From AI-powered chatbots to smart access and e-signature integration, the tech supports a truly end-to-end leasing experience that meets renters where they are: online, on-demand and on their own terms.
According to NMHC, 84% of renters say that technology has a moderate to major impact on their rental decisions.
Key elements of a digital-first leasing funnel
Creating a smooth digital leasing experience involves more than just moving forms online. It requires thoughtful technology integration at every stage of the funnel:
AI-powered chatbots handle early-stage inquiries 24/7, capturing leads and answering common questions in real time. This keeps prospects engaged and prevents drop-off when leasing offices are closed.
Self-guided tours allow prospective residents to view units on their schedule, without the need for an agent to accompany them. This increases tour availability and reduces scheduling conflicts.
Smart Access ensures secure, time-restricted entry for touring prospects. Operators can grant and revoke access instantly, reducing manual coordination while maintaining full visibility.
Online applications and automated screening tools let prospects apply from anywhere and receive quick approvals—keeping the process moving.
Digital leasing and payment setup rounds out the journey, allowing renters to sign documents and set up payment preferences in just a few clicks.
Benefits for operators and leasing teams
For leasing teams, digital-first doesn’t mean impersonal. It means freeing up time to focus on high-value conversations and personal connections.
By automating repetitive tasks—like answering FAQs, managing tour schedules or processing paperwork—teams can reallocate their time to building relationships, closing leases and supporting prospects with specific needs.
Operators also benefit from:
Higher lead conversion rates as digital tools engage prospects earlier and more effectively.
Increased tour-to-lease ratios with self-guided tours and online applications removing delays and obstacles.
Faster leasing cycles that reduce unit downtime and boost occupancy.
Scalable workflows that allow teams to handle more leads with fewer resources.
In competitive markets, speed and efficiency are key. Smart leasing tools give properties the edge they need to stay ahead.
Improved renter satisfaction and first impressions
First impressions matter—and leasing is the first real interaction a resident has with your brand. Clunky processes, delayed responses or lack of transparency can sour the experience before move-in even happens.
By contrast, a digital-first journey builds trust and confidence from the very beginning.
Renters appreciate:
The ability to tour independently
Quick, mobile-friendly application processes
Transparent, real-time communication
By setting a positive tone from the start, digital-first leasing lays the foundation for long-term satisfaction and resident loyalty. Operators who embrace this model are more likely to see improved reviews, better referrals and higher renewal rates.
Future-proofing the leasing process
The multifamily leasing landscape is evolving rapidly. AI tools, automation, personalization and CRM integrations are becoming standard—not someday, but now.
Operators who build on a digital-first foundation are positioned to scale and adapt as technology advances. For instance, with SmartRent, teams can integrate new tools, tweak workflows and upgrade capabilities without needing to rip and replace their entire tech stack.
Future-proofing your leasing strategy now ensures you can meet resident expectations tomorrow—no matter how they evolve.
Digital-first isn’t the future—it’s the now
Digital-first leasing is no longer optional—it’s expected. And it’s delivering real results: faster lease-ups, lower costs and happier residents.
At SmartRent, we make it easy to modernize your leasing journey from end to end. With secure access control, self-guided tours and more, we provide the tools to meet today’s renters where they are—while supporting your team every step of the way.
Ready to simplify, streamline and succeed in leasing? Schedule a demo today.