We all know a good user-friendly property website is imperative for showing off the incredible amenities and services your property offers, as well as handling all incoming prospects. Websites are not only for drawing in new renters, but also to retain and assist current renters.
So, what does a user-friendly website mean? It refers to a site that is easy to navigate, understand, and interact with. A user-friendly website is essential because it can significantly impact the user experience. When users can easily find what they are looking for on a website, they are more likely to stay longer, engage with the content, and return in the future. On the other hand, if a website is difficult to use, users are likely to become frustrated and bounce. In today's digital age, where people are accustomed to instant gratification and quick access to information, having a user-friendly website is more critical than ever.
There are two main functions that should serve the purpose of a user-friendly website: ease of communication and resident portal services. Let's dive in.
Ease of Communication with a User-Friendly Website
One of the main ways to keep a resident happy at your property is keeping them informed about changes happening at the property, announcements, events…etc. The second is offering an open line of communication to ask and answer questions, open dialogue for in-unit services, and signs for relevant information about the property such as when the pool or gym is open. But, as noted before and especially since the onset of COVID, virtual communication has been used much more than in-person communication. This is where your user-friendly website comes in. When renters can’t find a way to communicate in-person, they use tools on property websites to get answers. In these situations, old-school contact forms don’t cut it. They typically take too long to reply and the person filling out the form is never 100% confident that the message has been passed on. So, what do you do?
How to Make a Website User-Friendly for Ease of Communication
Many properties have adopted new forms of virtual communication such as chatbots or optimized mobile access to the property staff. Our Digital Human is a great example of that. This adjustment to an apartment’s communication style shouldn’t be over complicated. Offering more ways for current and future residents to communicate with property staff quickly and efficiently will always be important.
User-Friendly Website Services: Resident Portal
This way of communicating with current residents isn’t too far off from the general “ease of communication” we were talking about before, and that’s because a user-friendly resident portal is just another communication tool.
Exploring the Traditional Offerings of Resident Portals: A Thoughtful Analysis for User-Friendly Websites
Application Process
The application process through a resident portal typically involves creating an account and submitting an application online. This process is generally faster and more convenient than traditional paper applications, as residents can complete the process from the comfort of their own homes and receive instant feedback from management.
Leasing Capabilities
Leasing capabilities through a resident portal provide a convenient and efficient way for renters to manage their lease agreements. Residents can easily access and sign lease agreements, submit maintenance requests, pay rent, and communicate with property management. Additionally, leasing through a resident portal eliminates the need for paper documents, reduces administrative tasks for property managers, and improves overall communication between property staff and residents.
Billing and Payments
Through a resident portal, billing and payments are streamlined and convenient. renters can view their account balance and payment history, set up automatic payment options, and make secure online payments at any time. This eliminates the need for paper checks and reduces the risk of late payments. Additionally, management can easily track payments and communicate any billing issues or updates to residents through the portal.
Maintenance Requests
A resident portal makes maintenance requests simple and efficient. renters can easily submit a request through the portal, including details about the issue and any necessary photos. They can also track the status of the request and receive updates on when it will be completed. This streamlined process helps to ensure that maintenance issues are resolved quickly and with minimal hassle for both parties.
With the rise of younger and younger renters coming into the market, apartment properties must keep services like these online, easy to use, and all in one place. Young renters only want three things in an apartment: great amenities, honest and caring property staff, and online services where they can take care of all necessary items without physically speaking to another person.
The demand for services and easy communication online will continue to grow as the number of young renters continues to grow. This is also true for the growing demand for smart technology on properties, but that's a completely different topic.
Want more info on how Quext can help your property retain renters through your user-friendly website? Check out our apartment website builder or reach out to us; we'd be happy to talk to you.
