Property is a high value asset. It costs a lot of money to buy and keeping it in good shape both in the short and long term is not cheap. When things inevitably go wrong, they can be expensive to fix. The life of the professional landlord is not for the faint hearted. Knowledge is the key to success.

These days many professional homeowners are using homeowner software. The advantage of this software is that it reduces paperwork and repetition of mundane tasks. Used well, it can really streamline office processes. Once logged in, all information is securely stored in one place and tenant and property information is easily accessible in the form of management reports. The concept is simple and it’s brilliant. It works well for the property owner.

Before committing to a product, the property owner should conduct a thorough audit of the business and make a list of essentials and a wish list. In many ways, it’s just as important that a homeowner be trained to use it and have access to post-purchase support. The best homeowner software in the world will be of little or no use to a homeowner if he doesn’t know how to get the most out of it.

Look for a product that you can see in action before you commit to buying it. A one-on-one demo will show you what the product can do and show you how to get the best out of it. Many software packages now also come with after-sales support and desktop training and this can be a lifesaver.

Look for a software product that includes a training package to get started. This will make it easier for you to use the system and teach you how to get the best out of it. Also establish that, if necessary, you will have access to face-to-face training, telephone training, and online support. Don’t settle for a product that comes with only a training manual. Yes, a comprehensive training manual is important, but it must be part of the service. It really isn’t reasonable for a vendor to expect you to spend hours going through a manual to fully understand how the product works.

By getting training and support early on, the property owner can maximize the benefits that the software package can offer. Look for a package that includes access to online training presentations and one that can provide yearly support and training and information updates.

Think of real estate software like a new member of your team. Naturally, you will need support to be available from the service provider. A positive and ongoing relationship can be a real asset at the end of the year or when the business is experiencing changes. Knowledge is really the key to success.