Avenue5 management team says Updater is their favorite new personal assistant
The Century, an Avenue5 community in Portland, is experiencing significant improvements in their move-in process, thanks to Updater | Onboarding Pro. Both AJ Long, Property Manager, and Kaleen Perkins, Assistant Property Manager, have seen first-hand how the app is transforming their daily operations and enhancing the resident experience.
For AJ Long, managing move-ins used to bring a slight headache with it.
One of the most challenging parts of his job, pre-Updater? “Residents not completing their portion of items,” he says. From signing documents to setting up utilities, it felt like a never-ending game of tag.
After Updater’s integration, AJ quickly noticed a shift. The app’s automated reminders ensure that residents stay on track and on time, drastically reducing the need to reach out or chase them down. “It’s not much of a problem anymore,” he says.
One of AJ’s favorite features is the reminder emails, which he likens to having a personal assistant who keeps everyone organized.
Not only has Updater reduced AJ’s headaches, but it has also helped set The Century apart from other properties in the area.
“We have heard that our move-in process has been much easier than our competitors, and residents feel prepared for their move-in,” AJ says. He also sees potential for Updater to streamline the renewal process, making it easier for residents to stay at The Century longer. “Residents relate their renewal process to their move-in process and find it simple to renew their lease. [And now] they rarely need to come to the office for questions,” AJ says.
Kaleen Perkins has also seen game-changing results with Updater. “Getting applicants to send in required documents and sign their leases in a timely manner used to be difficult,” she says.
Now that process is starkly different. “It has become a lot easier — we send out a list of requirements, and they are able to upload them to Updater at their own pace, without us having to check in as frequently,” Kaleen says.
The app also gives residents the power to handle their own move-in tasks, while saving hours of follow-up time for the management team. Kaleen notes that she used to spend four hours a week managing move-ins, but now that time is freed up for other tasks. Even residents have noticed the difference.
“Those who had a great move-in experience tend to have a more positive outlook on the building and staff,” she shares. And that positive first impression often leads to higher renewal rates — a win for both management and residents.
Both AJ and Kaleen agree that Updater has made move-ins at The Century more efficient, stress-free, and centralized, saving time, improves resident satisfaction — and setting their community apart in a competitive market.