Looking for on-line application and payments for a small operation

[Roger Garnett]

We're starting to rent our first property - a nice duplex, and want to do as much on-line as possible. (Which most tenants will prefer in my area) I'm looking for low cost recommendations for on-line rent (and other fee) payments.

The BP On-line management software list is nice - but doesn't compare features & pricing.

1) I've now used RentApp for their free applications - This works great, but getting set up with them for screening takes a lot more than SmartMove

2) I've used SmartMove for screening -it works great, but that's all it does.

3) I'm still trying to figure out who to use for payments - bank transfers are fine, would like to avoid credit card fees. Want to be able to do billing for extra fees, like utilities, storage, etc. - not just rent.

Really, I'd prefer a one site that can do applications, screening, and billing / payments.

Experiences, Comparisons, and Suggestions welcome!

Roger

[Tom Goans]

While technology may be trendy, the good old fashion personal touch can be much better for numerous reasons - too long to list here.

Both my father and I use part-time workers. This idea now has a common term - Virtual Assistant. What has worked well for us is finding a professional who is now a stay-at-home parent. They already have the knowledge and training. Moreover, they are professionals who put a good image on our businesses.

• Over the years, many companies are learning that customers and prospective customers do not like dealing with voice mail and automation. Keep in mind, it is not about you, it is about the customer who pays your bills and makes your investment successful.

• Today, people are increasingly becoming very apprehensive of conducting business solely by automation and technology - especially when it comes to giving out personal information.

• Many companies and government agencies warn against making virtual payments. Want an example, visit a Walmart Customer Service area. At each register is a warning about sending money to someone you have never met. This is a service they provide the Walmart customers for a fee. Yet, they warn against the practice.

[Al Williamson]

I use PayPal for rent payments.

My rent doc are Google docs and National Tenant Networks screen applicants.

[Roger Garnett]

Tom -

We're not talking anonymous payments here - at either end. We're talking electronic banking / payment systems, just like transferring money to pay your credit card, utility bills, phone bills, and the likes. There are a number of reputable services for this - I'm just looking for ones that are affordable and have good features for a small rental business.

[Chris Martin]

See also http://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/52/topics/101690-rental-payment-procedure---tennant-make-bank-deposit for a good discussion on this topic.