RentPost vs Appfolio

RentPost vs Appfolio: Which Property Management Software Is the Better Fit?

If you’re deciding between Appfolio and RentPost for your property management needs, it helps to understand what kind of user each platform is built for. Appfolio is a feature-heavy, enterprise-grade solution with a high cost of entry. RentPost, on the other hand, is designed for lean, hands-on operators who want reliable tools without the corporate bloat or premium price tag.

Start Free Trial

Schedule Demo

30-day free trial

No credit card required

Cancel anytime

Key Differences Between RentPost and Appfolio

Feature

Trial Access

Free trial with full access

No free trial, must schedule a sales call

Setup Fees

Free onboarding

$600 mandatory setup fee

Monthly Cost

$29/month + $1 per unit

50-unit minimum, $298/mo minimum cost up to 200 units, then $1.49/unit

Support Access

Direct phone and chat support

Help box with AI chatbot is first line of support

AI Features

AI assistant launching Spring 2026

RealmX AI built in for maintenance, messaging, and more

Onboarding Experience

Human-led and personal

Dedicated manager at first, then routed to support queue

Team Communication

Built-in messaging and notifications

Built-in messaging and email logs

Customization

Simple, flexible workflows

Extensive tools, but requires learning curve

Who Is Appfolio Built For?

Appfolio is one of the biggest names in property management software. It’s publicly traded, was founded in 2006, and claims to manage over 1 million units. If you’re running a large operation or an institutional portfolio, Appfolio offers:

AI-powered automation (RealmX)
Texting and call tracking inside the app
Work order automation
Maintenance tech portal view
Experian integration for tenant screening
Unlimited document storage
Deep internal communication tools for large teams

However, all of this comes at a cost:

$600 onboarding fee
$298 monthly minimum, even for smaller portfolios
Support often begins with a chatbot and help box, not a human

Why RentPost May Be a Better Fit for Smaller or Mid-Sized Portfolios

If you're managing under 500 units and looking for simplicity, personal support, and fair pricing, RentPost delivers the essentials without bloated costs.

Free onboarding and setup
Simple pricing structure with no minimums
Direct access to human support via phone or chat
No forced AI interactions or automated ticket routing
Full access included - no tier-based upselling

You won’t get some of the flashy automation tools or enterprise integrations, but you’ll get everything you need to manage properties efficiently.

Pricing Feature Comparison

RentPost vs Appfolio

Units Managed

50 Units

$79

$298 minimum

100 Units

$129

$298 minimum

200 Units

$229

$298 minimum

250 Units

$279

$372.50

Appfolio pricing increases $1.49 per unit beyond 200 units. RentPost scales linearly without surprise jumps at $29/mo plus $1 per unit

Core Features Comparison

Which Property Management Platform Should You Choose?

You manage hundreds or thousands of units

You need integrated AI, full texting, and maintenance tracking

You’re comfortable with a corporate pricing model and learning curve

You want core features at a fraction of the cost

You prefer speaking to real people, not bots

You want to try the software before committing

You manage fewer than 150 units and value simplicity

RentPost Puts Control and Affordability First

Appfolio is built for scale, but not every property manager needs an enterprise-grade system. If you’re looking for reliable software that won’t lock key features behind tiers, demand a $600 onboarding fee, or push you through AI support queues, RentPost is a leaner and more approachable alternative.

Try RentPost free and discover how it can streamline your property management - without the overhead

Try RentPost Free Today

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is RentPost?

RentPost is a property management software platform designed to simplify rental property management. It offers features like online rent collection, maintenance request management, tenant screening, accounting, and more. Founded in 2009, RentPost aims to simplify the entire rental process for landlords and property managers.

Does RentPost offer tenant screening?

Yes, RentPost provides tenant screening services in partnership with TransUnion. We offer two levels of screening reports: Basic ($29) and Premium ($39). The Basic report includes credit check, criminal background check, and watchlist screenings. The Premium report adds enhanced identity verification and eviction history. Property managers can choose which report to require for applications.

How does RentPost handle accounting?

RentPost offers full trust accounting capabilities, designed for property management. Features include double-entry ledgers, customizable chart of accounts, accounts receivable/payable management, and financial reporting. The system supports multiple bank accounts and ownership entities. It can generate income statements, rent rolls, owner statements, and other key financial reports.

Can RentPost integrate with other software?

Yes, RentPost integrates with thousands of other applications through its open API. This allows users to connect RentPost with their existing accounting, CRM, or other business tools to streamline workflows and eliminate duplicate data entry.

How does RentPost handle work order management?

RentPost streamlines work order management by allowing tenants to submit maintenance requests directly through the system. Property managers can then assign work orders, track progress, communicate with vendors, and associate expenses - all within the centralized work order interface.

Can I manage multiple properties with RentPost?

Yes, RentPost allows you to manage multiple properties, including single-family homes, multi-family units, student housing, commercial properties, and more.