AppFolio vs Landlord Studio
In short.
Pick AppFolio if you run property management companies;
pick Landlord Studio if you run DIY & small landlords.
AppFolio starts with custom pricing,
Landlord Studio free.
AI-forward platform for mid-to-large residential portfolios.
- Best forProperty management companies
- Starts atCustom
- Free optionNo
- Mobile appYes
Accounting-focused, mobile-first software 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 | ✓ | ✓ |
| 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.
Landlord Studio
| Gofree, up to 3 units | Free |
|---|---|
| Proor $144/yr · 3 units + $1/unit beyond | $12/mo |
| Pro Plusor $336/yr | $28/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
Landlord Studio
Pros
- Strong income/expense tracking and tax (Schedule E) reports
- Receipt scanning and a great mobile app
- Free for the first 3 properties
Cons
- No owner portal; not for PM companies
- Lighter on syndication reach
FAQ
What is the difference between AppFolio and Landlord Studio?
AppFolio is best for property management companies, while Landlord Studio is best for DIY & small landlords.
Is AppFolio or Landlord Studio cheaper?
Landlord Studio is the cheaper option — it offers a free plan.
Which is better for property management companies?
For property management companies, Landlord Studio rates slightly higher (4.6★ on Capterra).