Text your tenants. Really. Here are ten reasons why:
1. It’s fast.
Text messages are the fastest way to contact your tenants — they’re instant and accessible. Depending on the service or app you use (as well as some privacy settings), you may be able to use “read receipts” to see if the tenant has read the text message. Most tenants will check their messages more frequently than emails.
2. It’s easy.
The easiest way for a renter to reach a landlord is by sending a text . The conversation can be instantaneous, which helps the property owner’s reputation as a helpful and attentive landlord. As a result, tenant turnover may remain low and it may be easier to fill vacant units.
3. Mixed Media.
These days, texts aren’t just text-based. You can combine photos, audio, video, and text to communicate with your tenants. A picture speaks a thousand words, and your tenants may appreciate being able to send a video of their issue. Maintenance problems are simplified by the ability to send multimedia text messages back and forth.
With the help of visuals, you quickly get a clearer idea of what exactly has occurred with your property and what needs fixing. You can also provide a solution much faster as you have seen the problem without having to visit the property. So, texting tenants to resolve maintenance issues saves you and your tenant time and money.
4. It’s what the customer wants.
Studies show that 75% of millennials would rather lose the ability to talk than the ability to text. The statistics are the same for Gen Z. So, it’s better to jump on the trend now to prepare yourself for the next wave of young tenants.
Aside from making it more convenient, younger generations are not used to or even comfortable talking on the phone. So, a messaging service is what they are looking for. Many young adults view it as obtrusive if you call without warning them.
5. It saves time.
When it comes to checking voice mail messages, most millennials don’t bother. It may not sound like a big deal, but if you are in the habit of leaving voice messages, chances are that 1 in 5 of your tenants will never hear them.
6. It improves tenant engagement.
Receiving a text message can be more personal than an email. This allows tenants to feel a little bit closer to you and improves engagement. You can make valuable connections with tenants without having to make a phone call.
7. It helps with record-keeping.
Unless you delete them or have an automatic cleanup app, your messages stay there for the long term. This is essential if there are any severe disputes between you and the tenant.
Text messages are considered written proof, and it’s much easier to authenticate a text message than a conversation that is not recorded—which legally you probably can’t do. As an electronic record of dialogue, you can enter as evidence into court if you need to file an eviction.
8. Refresh your memory.
Sometimes you may need to review past messages, and texting allows this. The upside of having a permanent record of your text communications is that you can always go back and see what it is that you might be forgetting. It’s like a digital Post-It note.
9. Resolve issues 24/7.
Texting with your tenants helps you to resolve issues fast — Having access to text messages allows you to sort out emergencies when they occur. You can also respond quickly to your tenant’s needs. At the same time, you can also stay in touch with your employees for internal operations.
10. It’s cost-effective.
Typically, you want to find the most cost-effective method to communicate with your tenants. Plans may include free text messaging, as well as free photos and videos. Even if there is a cost to the service, the advantages will far outweigh the small fee you may incur from a text service. Many mobile apps allow you to send videos and images for free.