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The world of proptech is vast and can be overwhelming for many property owners. According to the MIT Center for Real Estate, there are over 3,000 companies reinventing how the real estate industry operates. As more residents come to expect this technology, landlords will have no choice but to jump on the technology bandwagon.

Last month we touched on the ever-expanding world of proptech and discussed a few of the different apps we have our eye on. Today we want to highlight what we have found to be the most important specific feature improving the residential tenant experience and also that of the property owner; the resident portal. In the past few years, resident portals have made streamlined the property management process from application, to rent collection and maintenance. For the property owner, portals allow for easily accessed data and transparent accounting.

As we approach the close of this decade let’s take a look back at some of the largest and significant residential & mixed-use developments in Boston. As a property management and brokerage firm, we are constantly monitoring the residential market and these projects have had a major impact on Boston’s neighborhoods, sales and rental pricing, and in many cases the skyline. We will also highlight a few upcoming projects sure to make an impact in the coming decade as the city works to reach Mayor Walsh’s goal of creating 69,000 new units of housing by the year 2030.

The world of proptech is vast and can be overwhelming for many property owners. According to the MIT Center for Real Estate, there are over 3,000 companies reinventing how the real estate industry operates. As more residents come to expect this technology, landlords will have no choice but to jump on the technology bandwagon.

Across the city and into the suburbs the great amenities race is on with luxury buildings playing a large scale game of keeping up the Jones. Smaller, older properties are also trying to keep pace with renovations and amenity additions. Some of the most unique amenities we have seen include a vintage arcade room complete with Skee Ball and Pac-Man at Pierce Boston, Ink Block’s botanical gardens, and the upcoming “Woof Deck” a rooftop terrace for your dog to be included at the residential tower for The Hub on Causeway.

Browse through any number of reviews for apartments and you will see a trend in both the coveted 5-star reviews and the opposite end of the spectrum, the dreaded 1 star. Many include commentary on property or concierge staff. While apartment quality and other issues come into play, these interactions with staff can really make or break the tenant experience. As these reviews are also a major factor in leasing decisions for prospective residents they are of high importance to your communities online brand.

Haven’t had time to review the BPDA’s report on Trends in Article 80 Development ? We’ve got you covered and are breaking down the trends on the residential front that are most important for property owners and managers. The report covers development trends dating back to 1996 when Article 80 was first put in place.

Even for the experienced property owner managing your asset can become tiresome and costly. Below are a series of quick tips that can help any property owner save $$$. Tenant Selection Select tenants carefully (and lawfully)!  Use a property management or credit check software to ensure you are only leasing to qualified tenants. In Massachusetts, especially, the laws are very tenant friendly so once a “bad” tenant is in your building it may be very difficult and costly to evict them. Timely maintenance and regular inspections Dealing with tenant requests promptly is key to ensuring your property is in good condition and small problems don’t become larger costly ones.  Regular inspections and routine maintenance are also important, especially if you have a hunch your tenants are lax in reporting maintenance concerns. Smart systems Many newer properties will feature the latest in smart technology but older properties can be retrofit with these devices to keep utility costs down and run your property at top efficiency. Tenant retention Everyone knows keeping a tenant is less expensive than a new lease so customer service is key!  Have you gotten lost in the phone maze of a large property management company? Not pleasant for current tenants or anyone looking to lease at your property. Hiring a Boutique Property Management company. As a property owner, you want to ensure your asset is being run at peak performance but also at a reasonable rate.  Utilizing a boutique, local property management firm like GB property Management can decrease your management fees but also increase response time and tenant retention by building strong foundations with residents.

GB Property Management is back with more tips for property owners and property managers for property management . This month we tackle every maintenance teams favorite topic winter maintenance and snow removal. We’ve got tips on prepping your building for the New England Winter along with suggestions to ensure you’re avoiding pesky and expensive lawsuits.