Accounting Software when using a PM

[Andrew Albert]

Hi BiggerPockets,

I've seen a bunch of posts about accounting software but they seem to be focused on self-managed scenarios. We have a property manager using Buildium giving us "owner" access - read only reports, etc. We're looking into an accounting software both for the LLC that owns the property being managed and for our personal finances (likely separate databases, perhaps separate tools). Rather than manually updating a spreadsheet which isn't scalable.

Any recommendations on accounting software that is easily updated from Buildium export files? 

• I know of the usual suspects, QB, Quicken, Xero... but wondering if anyone has experience updating these packages from Buildium exports - is it easy? Will i have to manually update all the tranx each month?

• If manual, then i don't think it'll be worth the time to keep a separate set of books. Is there a better option for keeping track of LLC financials (without engaging a bookeeper)? Should i not bother if the PM is managing all the expenditure in Buildium and providing me a monthly summary?

Any recommendations for personal finance (for married couples) tools that accommodate full and partial ownership in buy-and-hold properties? 

• Mint, Personal Capital - good tools but don't seem to account for property ownership or partnerships as well. Mint being light on investments in general, PC having solid investment visibility but more focused on the equity markets than real estate. 

Thanks!