A Quick Guide To Proptech Software Development

The real estate management industry has experienced substantial disruption in recent times, owing to the advent of new technologies that have revolutionized our way of life and work. In fact, Proptech, short for “property technology,” has emerged as a game-changer as it uses advanced technology and innovative solutions to transform and enhance the real estate industry, creating opportunities for property managers to build more efficient and effective businesses.

As per Grand View Research, the worldwide PropTech market was assessed at USD 25,145.1 million in 2021, and it is anticipated to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.8% from 2022 to 2030.

This upsurge is attributed to the escalating requirement for property management software (PMS) and asset management software, which are expected to be the primary growth drivers. Thus, this article delves into the definition of proptech and its impact on the property management sector and provides guidance for the development of proptech software.

What Is PropTech?

PropTech is an all-encompassing term that refers to a vast array of technologies and tools utilized by real estate and property management firms. Proptech software, whether in the form of mobile or desktop applications, serves the industry in various capacities, such as sales, operations, maintenance, and contract management. Moreover, in addition to software, proptech can also comprise hardware devices like sensors, VR headsets, cameras, and trackers, among others.

The definition of proptech involves a specific real estate industry that employs innovative technological products to address the needs of businesses and clients, delivering groundbreaking approaches and techniques for discovering, selecting, leasing, and acquiring real estate properties.

Proptech consists of two prominent technologies:

• Firstly, property management software, which enables centralized management of properties. It allows for the creation of comprehensive reports and data visualization from a single location, streamlining the management process and eliminating the need to log into multiple systems.
• Secondly, rental pricing software facilitates accurate pricing of properties to optimize profits by determining the optimal monthly rent amount. This technology aids in reducing tenant turnover rates by ensuring that renters do not feel overcharged for a property they do not find desirable.

Benefits Of Proptech Software Development

Now let’s talk about the top benefits that real estate firms, property managers, landlords, and tenants receive from the development of proptech software.

1. Transparency

The swift expansion of PropTech, Big Data, and Blockchain technologies has enabled clients to track their property transactions effortlessly and boosted their loyalty toward real estate companies. As the Global Real Estate Transparency Index becomes a significant industry benchmark, customers are prioritizing transparency in property transactions and management operations when selecting a real estate firm to work with. 

Utilizing proptech solutions can, therefore, benefit your company by improving customer loyalty, increasing sales, and enhancing the decision-making process.

2. Enhanced Promotion

Proptech software offers advanced tools and functionalities that enable real estate agents to promote properties better, providing valuable insights into floorplans, galleries, development plans, and more. An example of such software is Snaptrude, an architectural design solution that helps agents create visually-appealing 3D models from hand-drawn floor plan sketches within seconds. 

By leveraging the advantages of proptech software, you can enhance your promotion activities and enable brokers to improve their lead-to-deal ratio exponentially.

3. Improved Occupancy

Artificial Intelligence is a key component of modern Proptech software solutions, using smart algorithms to improve property promotion and provide relevant landlord-tenant matches. 

By gathering data such as requests, preferences, and requirements through search engines, AI algorithms help landowners and property managers quickly and easily identify the most suitable tenants for their properties.

4. Automated Efficiency

Proptech startups have developed innovative mobile applications to help landlords automate and simplify the rental process, including rent tracking, attracting suitable tenants, securing data storage, and managing repair services. 

By utilizing Proptech software, landlords can save time on daily tasks, optimize financial assets, and organize rental holdings. This allows them to focus on business development instead of spending hours on routine operations.

5. Direct Digital Engagement

Proptech software offers powerful direct digital engagement in housing, including cloud-based security systems with remote management, contactless visitor management through access control systems, online registration, and sign-in support, and touchless access control systems. 

This core benefit of Proptech software allows landlords and property managers to reduce expenses and increase efficiency. Additionally, remote data access and management enable companies to process the required data from any location.

6. Virtual Interactions

Proptech startups are continually improving the digital experience of their offerings to all real estate parties. One of the technological benefits of Proptech software is virtual interaction, which eliminates location issues for both landlords and tenants. 

This technology provides unlimited opportunities for both parties to interact efficiently, creating a seamless customer experience. It enables renters to review preferred properties worldwide with virtual inspections, tours, viewings, closing, and front desks. With this, video conferencing is also gaining popularity, saving time and positively affecting the interaction and deal processes.

6 Must-Have Features Of Proptech Software

Proptech software is a comprehensive term that encompasses numerous application types, niches, sub-niches, and variations. Therefore, it is crucial for any potential proptech software to have these five essential features.

1. Easy Registration

PropTech software emphasizes convenience and user experience, beginning with the sign-up process. By limiting the number of fields to essential data such as full name, email, and password, the sign-up process can be intuitive. Additionally, you can incorporate the social sign-in/login feature to simplify access to the system.

Adding SSO functionality results in a 20-40% increase in sign-ups for companies.

Kevin White, Marketing Manager at Gigya

2. Property Listing

PropTech software simplifies landlord-tenant interactions and provides digital transparency to both customers and businesses by revolutionizing the real estate market. The property listing feature is one of the essential components. 

• First, property managers or landowners can upload crucial asset information, allowing customers to access required data quickly and in a contactless manner. 
• Second, brokers and property managers can create listing links and mass emails them to prospects with just a few clicks, boosting promotion and sales activities. 
• Third, real estate agents can use a brochure generation tool to create visually appealing property reports with the necessary data for leads and customers, making the property listing feature a win-win-win strategy for all parties involved.

3. Filters And Search

The real estate market necessitates the daily finding, analyzing, and processing of large amounts of data that makes a powerful search experience and filter functionality the necessary features for proptech software. These features allow companies to streamline and accelerate business operations. 

• Powerful filters enable users to narrow down their search requests with multi-select criteria, sorting listings, availability, property information, location, and other property-related data. 
• With AI assistance, relevant auto-suggestion functionality saves time for users by providing inquiry-related hints that fit the current search request.
• Additionally, map search functionality allows users to view listings on a map and draw custom shapes of locations to see specific availability.

4. Powerful Analytics With Dashboards

Implementing analytics tools that allow the visualization of collected statistics and converting them into an improved decision-making process is critical. 

• It is an essential feature considering it can allow employees to build insightful dashboards with charts and graphs, taking into account the KPIs monitored. 
• This feature should provide enough customization capabilities to analyze and transform different values into data-driven results. 
• It facilitates an exceptional real-time market data system that guarantees the immediate availability of the latest information. It empowers managers to make informed decisions that give their business a competitive edge over rival companies.

5. Easy-to-access And Secure Deal Rooms

One of the main trends in Proptech software is touchless interaction with remote access to required data. For this reason, secure and real-time deal rooms for deal discussions are a must-have feature for modern proptech software. 

• Firstly, they enable managers/landlords, and tenants to share sensitive information securely and efficiently.
• It eliminates the need for convoluted email chains that can reduce the conversion rate and provide a poor user experience.
• Secure deal rooms enable both parties to access the conversation anytime and from anywhere with a mobile phone and internet connection.

6. Lease And Inventory Management

Lease management is an indispensable tool for rental property owners, enabling them to streamline tenant-related procedures. Meanwhile, inventory management is vital for minimizing equipment downtime and enhancing operational efficiency. These functionalities prove crucial in the context of industrial and commercial property applications.

Steps To Develop Proptech Software

Step 1: Define Your Business Goals

• To start building PropTech software, you must define your business goals and the specific problems you want to solve for your customers.
• Depending on your specific challenge, the requirements and development plan for building PropTech software may vary significantly.
• Moreover, we suggest identifying the exact lifecycle stage, such as planning, development, investment, property or facilities management, or tenant experience, that you want to improve by implementing Proptech software.

Step 2: Choose The Type Of Proptech Software You Want To Develop

In addition to identifying the business challenges you want to address, selecting the appropriate type of PropTech software is equally important, as it caters to the specific needs of your business operations. Now, let’s briefly explore the most common options available.

2.1. Search Proptech Solutions

This solution enhances the property search experience for brokers, landowners, and tenants alike. 

• It allows tenants to find and view suitable properties – virtually and remotely, and access marketplace platforms (B2C and C2C) with numerous listings that meet their search criteria.
• It allows landlords and brokers to effortlessly list available properties and includes relevant data to expedite searching for the right tenants.

The following are the main features incorporated in the search Proptech software:

• Virtual viewing
• Data brokerage
• Data and analytics
• Marketplace solutions, etc.

2.2. Property Management Proptech Solutions

This solution is geared towards improved property management efficiency for property managers, landlords, and facilities. Here is a list of the primary solutions it offers:

• BIM
• Communications
• Building warranty
• Smart building solutions
• Task management tools
• Portfolio management apps

2.3. Sales Proptech Solutions

These solutions assist real estate brokers and managers in promoting properties effectively, thereby increasing marketing opportunities and sales results. The following are the main solutions offered by sales proptechs:

• Financing solutions
• Email marketing tools
• Contract management
• Collaboration and deal rooms
• Property listings management

2.4. Tenant Portal Software

A platform designed for tenants to pay rent, request maintenance, and communicate with property managers. This promotes a more convenient and transparent rental experience.

2.5. Leasing Software

This software automates the entire leasing process, from advertising and listing management to tenant screening, making it easier for property managers and landlords to find and lease their properties to qualified tenants.

2.6. Data Analytics Software

This software collects, analyzes, and presents real estate data in a visually comprehensive manner, helping professionals make informed decisions on property investments, market trends, and other market conditions.

2.7. Virtual Reality Software

This software offers immersive virtual tours and walkthroughs of properties, allowing potential buyers and renters to explore properties remotely, minimizing the need for physical visits.

2.8. Building Automation Software

This software integrates and automates building systems such as air conditioning, heating, ventilation, and security to enhance energy efficiency, comfort, and safety for building occupants.

Step 3: Choose the Development Approach

Before commencing the development phase, we suggest choosing the most appropriate option that aligns with your project’s requirements, considering factors such as timeline, budget expectations, and other relevant criteria. While discussing the development approaches, here are a few suggestions:

3.1. Hire A Proptech Software Development Company

Outsourcing your project to a technology partner with a strong track record in proptech software development guarantees a superior end product adhering to the latest trends and standards. However, before outsourcing, it is advisable to evaluate case studies of different projects to learn about the tech stack, features, and scalability they provide, service feedback, online ratings, and reviews of potential software development firms.

Although there are some primary advantages of outsourcing proptech software development:

• Long-term cost savings
• Improved flexibility and scalability 
• Proven high-quality product delivery
• Saves time spent on talent acquisition 
• Result-oriented consulting for proptech
• Quick access to a wide range of technical professionals

3.2. Collaborate With Independent Development Teams (freelancers)

Teaming up with a group of freelance developers entails utilizing online platforms such as Credo, Fiverr, Freeeup, Outsourcely, UpWork, etc., to identify technical specialists who match your project needs, preferred development rates, and possess reliable experience in building technological solutions for proptech businesses.

This method offers several advantages, including:

• Reasonable rates
• A wide talent pool 
• Faster project delivery, etc. 

However, there may be communication problems, low-quality product output, project security threats, and time constraints.

3.3. Create Proptech Software By Yourself

This alternative requires that you have robust technical abilities that allow you to develop the foundation of your proptech software and transform business requirements into valuable features. 

Developing proptech solutions locally may necessitate additional support from professionals such as QA specialists, DevOps engineers, and others who may contribute towards vital project development activities.

So far, this option may be the most cost-effective, but it could be time-consuming since you have to invest a lot of time in developing proptech software yourself.

Step 4: Actual Development Stage

To avoid costly errors, it is important to take sufficient time during the development process to ensure that the product functions properly before its market release. The development stage involves a comprehensive process of creating proptech software, including wireframing/prototyping, UI/UX design, and development.

• During the wireframing/prototyping stage, clickable prototypes of all the screens in the future software are developed to test user stories and finalize ideas. 
• The UI/UX design stage involves the final design and usability testing of the requested features. 
• The team finalizes the tech stack selection and determines total project estimates. 
• Finally, during the development stage, the development team delivers the mobile and/or web app and implements the required frontend and backend functionality.

Step 5: Testing And Maintenance

Upon completing the development of your proptech software, it is imperative to subject it to thorough testing, just like any other software application or website, to ensure the proper functioning of all essential functions or features. 

After testing, it is equally important to obtain user feedback, as it provides insight into their perceptions of the product’s functionality, usability, and effectiveness. This feedback can assist in determining whether changes or additions are necessary to enhance the overall quality and user experience of the software. It helps optimize the product’s appeal and value to the target audience giving it a competitive edge.

Step 6: Ensure Software Security 

Given that individuals will be entrusting their personal data to your website, it is crucial that they are reassured about the security of your product. One effective measure to instill such confidence is the implementation of secure sockets layer (SSL) certificates, which are readily accessible from multiple internet providers at reasonable rates.

Challenges And Issues While Developing Proptech Software

It is crucial to prioritize the most pressing concerns during the development process of property management software to avoid investing resources into an unused platform. To this end, the following factors should be given due attention:

• User Interface (UI) And User Experience (UX) Optimization: Ensure that all users can easily navigate the software by implementing a combination of text and visual aids to facilitate an intuitive and consistent user journey.
• Compatibility With Other Software: The Property Management System (PMS) should enable seamless data import and export via Application Programming Interface (API) integrations. Ensure compatibility with other tools you use from the outset.
• Cybersecurity: Users of most property management apps will input sensitive banking details during billing automation. Ensure that this information, passwords, and other personal data are stored securely by encrypting and hashing the data.
• Technical Support: Technical glitches can occur for various reasons. Having a contractual agreement with your web developers that includes post-development technical support is critical to resolving any issues and explaining complexities to end users.
• Future-Proof Technology Stack: Your proptech software should remain relevant and competitive. Therefore, when hiring a software development team, avoid using a technology stack solely because it is time-tested or adopting the latest technology that may become obsolete soon. Instead, choose a current, stable, and durable technology stack that is less likely to be replaced or discontinued in the near future.

Key Trends In Proptech To Look Out For In 2023

In 2023, the proptech industry is expected to bring forth innovative trends such as immersive and interactive buildings, enablement of sustainability practices and decarbonization, IoT-enabled predictive maintenance, Blockchain, etc.

1. Immersive And Interactive Buildings 

Smart devices will improve the user experience for residents by enabling them to inquire about building and operational information about their residences directly. Additionally, building managers can install sensors to monitor the temperature, lighting, and indoor air quality in their structures to better tailor the living space for its occupants.

2. Sustainability And Decarbonisation

As more real estate management organizations adopt sustainable practices in 2023, it will be crucial to facilitate them. By offering thorough analytics tools that assist building managers in understanding how their structures are performing with regard to energy usage optimization and other decarbonizing operations, proptech can facilitate sustainability practices in property management.

An AI-powered platform can analyze data from sensors that are installed in buildings to monitor humidity levels, temperature, and CO2 concentrations, among other things, and provide real-time data on a building’s energy usage via an app.

3. IoT-enabled Predictive Maintenance

The labor shortage has led to increased pressure on real estate managers to optimize their building operations. Therefore, in 2023 and beyond, we might see more property managers employing IoT-enabled predictive maintenance. 

Predictive maintenance is a form of property technology that uses connected sensors to monitor and predict the performance of machinery, equipment, and systems within a building or facility. Predictive maintenance can be used to reduce energy costs, improve safety, and detect and correct problems before they become major issues.

4. Building Operations Automation

It has helped real estate management to improve efficiency and reduce costs by streamlining existing processes digitally. Automated processes have helped eliminate redundant work being done by employees, enabling property managers to focus on revenue-generating areas such as improving resident experience or sustainability of the building. This will provide complete oversight of day-to-day operations, resulting in better customer experiences for building occupants.

5. Holistic Property Management

This trend will consider all aspects of a building or property. This includes maintenance, finances, sustainability, and tenant relationships, aiming to optimize the performance and value of the property. It streamlines processes, reduces duplication, and minimizes errors, leading to increased productivity and cost savings. 

Holistic property management promotes open communication between stakeholders, improving tenant satisfaction and better financial management. By considering the environmental impact of a property, holistic property management can help reduce energy consumption and waste and improve sustainability.

6. Cloud-based Property Technology 

This technology provides easy access to information about different properties and their tenants, making it much easier for managers to stay on top of things. They can be used to manage the systems of a building, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning, fire alarms, security systems, and lighting. 

The software offers improved efficiency, cost savings, and the ability to monitor the performance of buildings remotely without having to visit them regularly. In 2023, we expect this trend to intensify as building owners adopt cloud-based property management platforms that can do everything from accounting to maintenance management.

7. Blockchain Integration Into Real Estate Transactions

Blockchain technology is being used to create decentralized platforms. The platform allows people to make transactions directly with each other without the need for an intermediary. It improves transparency and security in real estate transactions. It makes it easier for buyers to access information about properties and reduces the time it takes to complete transactions. 

Blockchain also provides high security for transactions, making it perfect for real estate transactions because everything is recorded on the blockchain network, making it impossible to alter records after they’ve been created. It allows everyone involved in a transaction to access the same version of the truth about a transaction, reducing fraud and making transactions more secure.

Key Players In Different Segments Of Proptech

The proptech industry is highly competitive, with several significant market players seeking to enhance their offerings through various initiatives. Those initiatives includes, strategic partnerships, new product and service launches, and regional expansion. Some well-known companies in the global proptech market includes:

Name	Founded	Type of service
Iflexion	1999	Versatile custom software development
Fingent	2003	Versatile custom software development with AI, AR, and IoT focus
Sciencesoft	1989	IT consulting and custom software development
Intellectsoft	2007	IT consulting and custom software development
Chetu	2000	Versatile custom software development
Taazaa	2007	Versatile custom software development
WeWork	2010	Commercial office space solutions
Airbnb	2008	Global short-rentals marketplace
OpenDoor	2014	Residential marketplace / iBuyer
Compass	2012	Brokerage technology
Homelight	2012	Rental marketplace
VTS	2012	Commercial real estate software
Redfin	2002	Rental software
Zumper	2011	Rental marketplace
RealPage	1998	Commercial and residential prop management tools
Hover	2011	3D visualization
Reonomy	2012	AI-powered commercial database platform
Zillow	2006	Real estate marketplace
Loopnet	1995	Commercial real estate listing platform
OpenSpace	2016	Construction space management

New proptech platforms have emerged to complement old legacy systems in real estate development. The market now has outdated and flexible tools to support every process stage.

1. Accounting 

In this category, perpetual platforms such as Yardi Voyager, MRI, Sage 300, and QuickBooks Online enable project teams to carry out tasks such as invoice processing, vendor payments, and budget management.

2. Contech

Contech, a new breed of software, provides general contractors with specific tools to efficiently manage every aspect of their construction activities.

3. Investment Management

In this category, advanced programs assist REITs and other institutional investors in maximizing their capital deployment by identifying opportunities and trends in the market.

4. Building Information Modeling 

BIM software is a 3D modeling tool in the Building Information Modeling (BIM) category that aids developers in visualizing and planning their projects.

5. Building Operations 

In the Building Operations category, modern components such as IoT sensors and control systems are used to automatically track utility usage, repair requests, and potential security concerns.

6. Data Analytics

These tools generate real-time insights by analyzing internal and external data to enable informed decision-making. The best solutions in this category employ artificial intelligence to eliminate manual data entry, automate reporting, and produce budget forecasts.

Case Study

1. Proptech Steps Into the Affordable Housing Void

Real estate technology strives to address a significant national issue and generate profits by tackling aspects such as pre-construction, financing, and adherence to regulations.

• Proptech companies are leading the way in making affordable housing a reality in the US. 
• High housing costs remain a major cause of inflation in the country, leading to a scarcity of affordable housing. 
• Real estate technology firms are approaching the affordability problem from a variety of entry points in the housing process. 
• The sector with the greatest uptake of proptech is affordable multifamily housing. 
• These landlords use technology to cope with smaller profit margins and control operating expenses. 
• Utilities and financing agencies are also offering incentives for the use of energy-efficient technology. 
• Energy savings from tech such as solar panels can help with green mortgage underwriting, giving an economic boost to the creation of affordable housing. 
• A number of proptech startups are looking at ways to make all kinds of housing more affordable. 
• The key challenge is the adoption of technology in the real estate industry. 
• Affordable housing in the US is unique because of the complex federal, state, and local programs that provide resources for this type of housing. 
• Compliance software is needed to help operators manage the paperwork associated with this type of property. 
• Proptech-related technologies such as 3D printing, modular construction, and zoning software could offer long-term solutions to affordable housing.

2. Habi secures a $100 million credit facility from Victory Park Capital 

• Habi, a residential technology company in Latin America, has secured a credit facility of US$100 million from global alternative investment firm Victory Park Capital (VPC).
• The financing marks the beginning of a partnership between Habi and VPC to introduce more innovation to the sector. 
• Habi intends to build on its residential products and increase its volume of used home purchases and sales in Colombia. 
• The aim is to enable middle-class families to access housing more quickly, securely, and transparently. 
• Habi’s CFO, Marcos Kantt, is pleased with the backing from VPC, calling it a “testament” to the resilience of the company in the face of macroeconomic swings.
• Habi is the largest buyer and seller of used homes in Colombia and Mexico and the largest mortgage originator in Colombia. 
• Using data and technology, Habi has reduced the time it takes to sell a home by 30x, from an average of over ten months to just ten days.

Build Your Proptech Software With Idea Usher

As we move forward into the future, technology continues to evolve and disrupt various industries. One of the industries that have seen significant disruption is real estate. The emergence of Proptech has revolutionized how real estate businesses operate, making it more efficient and streamlined.

Proptech has become increasingly popular due to its compatibility with current technology trends and its ability to simplify the traditional processes involved in real estate. To stay ahead in the highly competitive real estate industry, business owners must adopt a smart approach to their growth and revenue generation strategies. The best way to achieve this is by utilizing Proptech software, which can help businesses automate and streamline their operations, making them more efficient and cost-effective.

If you’re looking for a reliable partner to help you with Proptech software solutions development for your real estate business, look no further than Idea Usher. Our team of experienced developers has a wealth of experience working on various Proptech solutions. We can provide the expertise and support you need to take your business to the next level. So don’t hesitate to contact us today to discuss your requirements and ideas!

Contact Idea Usher at [email protected]

Or reach out at: (+1)732 962 4560, (+91)859 140 7140

FAQ

Q. What is proptech software?

A. PropTech software is a type of software that is designed to help with the management and maintenance of residential and commercial properties. This can include anything from keeping track of maintenance schedules and tasks to providing information on rental prices and availability. It can be a valuable tool for property owners and real estate investors, as it can help to make the residential and commercial property management process much easier and more efficient.

Q. What are the advantages of proptech software?

A. PropTech software solutions can help real estate businesses, property managers, and real estate agents:

• Manage property portfolios more efficiently
• Connect with potential tenants or buyers more easily
• Streamline the residential property management processes involved in renting properties
• Keep track of trends in the real estate market
• Access real estate analytics through a user-friendly web and mobile apps

Q. How to choose a reliable real estate software development company?

A. To select the ideal real estate software development company for your team, it’s crucial to evaluate your project goals and priorities thoroughly. This will help you identify a company that aligns with your team’s culture and requirements. 

You could find a suitable company through your personal network, online review sites like Clutch.io, or a simple Google search. Once you have shortlisted potential companies, conduct detailed research to filter them further. This could include scrutinizing their website for case studies, evaluating their client reviews on TrustPilot and Google, and contacting their previous clients for honest feedback. 

Additionally, look for a company that specializes in your required technology stack, stays abreast of the latest technological advancements, and has software developers with proven expertise in your domain.

Q. How can I protect intellectual property when working with an outsourcing company?

A. While trying to save time, be more flexible and cost-effective, and increase productivity through outsourcing, it is important to consider the risks to your intellectual property and take the steps necessary to protect your intellectual property.

With the knowledge of the importance of the legal framework applicable to your IP, for example, you may review past outsourcing agreements and renegotiate where necessary. You may also limit server and data access to vendors. You will also strategically approach future outsourcing agreements or arrangements by asking the outsourcing vendor key questions.