AppFolio vs Avail
In short.
Pick AppFolio if you run property management companies;
pick Avail if you run DIY & small landlords.
AppFolio starts with custom pricing,
Avail free.
AI-forward platform for mid-to-large residential portfolios.
- Best forProperty management companies
- Starts atCustom
- Free optionNo
- Mobile appYes
Free landlord software from Realtor.com for DIY landlords.
- Best forDIY & small landlords
- Starts atFree
- Free optionFree plan
- Mobile appYes
Feature comparison
| |
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Online rent collection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tenant screening | ✓ | ✓ |
| Listing syndication | ✓ | ✓ |
| Online applications | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lease management | ✓ | ✓ |
| Maintenance requests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Accounting | ✓ | ✕ |
| Expense tracking | ✓ | ✕ |
| Owner portal | ✓ | ✕ |
| Tenant portal | ✓ | ✓ |
| Document storage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reporting | ✓ | Partial |
| Bank integration | ✓ | ✓ |
| Renters insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| AI features | ✓ | ✕ |
| Mobile app | ✓ | ✓ |
Pricing
AppFolio
| CoreQuote-based · 50-unit minimum | $None |
|---|---|
| PlusQuote-based | $None |
| MaxQuote-based | $None |
Starting prices — vendors may add per-unit or transaction fees.
Avail
| Unlimitedfree forever, unlimited units | Free |
|---|---|
| Unlimited Plusbilled monthly | $9/unit/mo |
Starting prices — vendors may add per-unit or transaction fees.
Pros & cons
AppFolio
Pros
- True all-in-one (leasing, accounting, maintenance, inspections)
- Leading AI features (Realm-X); strong at scale
Cons
- 50-unit minimum locks out small landlords
- Slow support, limited customization, high cost at small scale
Avail
Pros
- Free for landlords; strong leases and applications
- Realtor.com listing reach; next-day rent on Plus
Cons
- Limited accounting
- Per-unit fee on Plus; tenant ACH fee on free tier
FAQ
What is the difference between AppFolio and Avail?
AppFolio is best for property management companies, while Avail is best for DIY & small landlords.
Is AppFolio or Avail cheaper?
Avail is the cheaper option — it offers a free plan.
Which is better for property management companies?
For property management companies, AppFolio and Avail are rated about the same — pick on price and the feature gaps above.