Score Comparison
Pricing & Features
Making Your Decision
When to Choose Buildium
Small to mid-size residential property managers (50-1,000 units) who want straightforward, all-in-one software that prioritizes ease of use
Buildium is one of the most accessible full-featured property management platforms, offering clean accounting and solid portals at a reasonable entry price. It is ideal for managers who need to get operational fast without heavy training, though the weak mobile app and growing costs at scale are real drawbacks.
Strengths
- Comprehensive feature set with tenant screening, maintenance tracking, online leasing, and 1099 e-filing built in
- Clean accounting with professional owner reports — fast onboarding without an accounting degree
- Strong tenant and owner portals with excellent self-service capabilities
- Ideal sweet spot for 50-1,000 unit residential portfolios
Limitations
- Mobile app is notably weak — many desktop features are missing or difficult to use on mobile
- Limited customization and third-party integrations can create data silos
- Per-unit pricing escalates quickly as your portfolio grows, with frequent price increases reported
When to Choose Hemlane
Remote or out-of-state landlords who want software-plus-services without hiring a full-service property manager
Hemlane's hybrid model is genuinely unique — it fills the gap between DIY software and full-service management with optional human support for repairs, showings, and tenant communication. The free tier is a strong entry point, but per-unit costs on higher tiers are steep for larger portfolios.
Strengths
- Unique hybrid management model — combines DIY software with optional local agents and 24/7 repair coordinators
- Free-forever Starter tier with rent collection, applicant tracking, and basic screening
- Complete plan includes a dedicated property management assistant for tenant communications
- 100% of rent reaches owners with no hidden deductions on any plan
Limitations
- Per-unit pricing on paid tiers ($2-$58/unit + base fee) gets expensive for larger portfolios
- Smaller user base than competitors means fewer community resources and integrations
- Accounting features are basic compared to dedicated platforms like Buildium or Rentec Direct
