Finding the Right Renters, Faster

Finding reliable tenants quickly is crucial for maximizing your rental income and minimizing vacancies. Thorough tenant screening helps mitigate risks and ensures positive landlord-tenant relationships. This listicle presents eight top-rated tenant screening software solutions for 2025, helping property managers and landlords like you find the perfect fit. We'll cover key features, pricing, and pros and cons of options like Showdigs, TransUnion SmartMove, and RentPrep, empowering you to choose the best tenant screening software for your portfolio. Quickly compare tools like Avail, TurboTenant, Tenant Background Search, Zillow Rental Manager, and AppFolio to streamline your tenant selection process.

1. Showdigs

Showdigs distinguishes itself from typical tenant screening software by offering a comprehensive AI-powered leasing automation platform. Designed specifically for single-family property managers, it streamlines the entire rental process, from initial listing and scheduling showings to tenant pre-screening and follow-up communication. This comprehensive approach reduces vacancy times and minimizes the administrative burden on property managers, allowing them to focus on scaling their business. Showdigs excels in automating key processes, freeing up property managers to handle more strategic tasks. Its focus extends beyond simple tenant screening to encompass the full leasing lifecycle.

Showdigs offers flexible showing options, including in-person, virtual, and self-scheduled tours. In select markets, they also provide on-demand agent services, handling showings professionally. This flexibility caters to the diverse needs of today's renters and provides property managers with options to optimize their showing processes. Seamless integration with industry-standard property management software like Appfolio and Yardi further simplifies workflows and eliminates data silos. This integration makes it easy to incorporate Showdigs into existing property management systems.

For property managers juggling multiple properties, the platform's automation features translate to significant time savings, allowing them to manage larger portfolios effectively. Positive testimonials from industry professionals highlight Showdigs' positive impact on portfolio size and tenant quality. Furthermore, their customer support team is highly regarded for responsiveness and proactive communication, ensuring a smooth onboarding experience and ongoing support.

While Showdigs offers a powerful suite of tools, it's important to consider a few potential limitations. The on-demand agent service, a key feature, requires an active Showdigs subscription and may not be cost-effective for very small landlords. Additionally, the agent network coverage is currently limited to specific geographic areas, though the self-showing software component is available nationwide. Pricing details are customized and require booking a demo, but the company emphasizes significant cost savings compared to hiring additional in-house staff, making it a potentially attractive investment for property managers overseeing 200 or more units.

Pros:

• Comprehensive automation of the entire leasing funnel reduces vacancy durations and administrative workload.
• Flexible showing options: in-person, virtual, self-scheduled tours, and professional on-demand agent showings (in select markets).
• Seamless integration with Appfolio and Yardi simplifies operational workflows.
• Proven to increase portfolio size per manager and improve tenant quality.
• High-quality customer support.

Cons:

• On-demand agent services require a subscription and may not be suitable for small landlords.
• Agent network coverage is geographically limited.

Website: https://showdigs.com

Showdigs earns its place on this list because it goes beyond basic tenant screening software by automating the entire leasing process. Its focus on single-family property management, combined with AI-powered features and flexible showing options, makes it a strong contender for property managers seeking to scale their operations efficiently and improve tenant quality. While the pricing model and agent network coverage should be considered, the platform offers a compelling solution for those managing a larger number of units and looking for a comprehensive, technology-driven approach to leasing.

2. TransUnion SmartMove

TransUnion SmartMove is a robust tenant screening software solution powered by TransUnion, one of the three major credit bureaus. This gives it a distinct advantage in terms of data accuracy and comprehensiveness. It's designed specifically for landlords and property managers, from independent owners to large property management companies, offering a practical and efficient way to screen potential tenants without requiring long-term contracts. SmartMove provides detailed reports, including credit checks, criminal background checks, eviction history, and income verification through their Income Insights feature. This comprehensive approach helps you make informed decisions and minimize the risks associated with tenant placement. It's ideal for those seeking a reliable, pay-as-you-go tenant screening solution without the burden of monthly or annual subscriptions.

One of the key benefits of using TransUnion SmartMove is its integration with TransUnion's vast credit database. This ensures you receive accurate and up-to-date credit information, including a ResidentScore, a credit scoring model specifically designed for tenant screening. For busy property managers and large rental portfolio owners, the platform's efficiency is a significant advantage. The applicant-pays option streamlines the process and shifts the cost, making it more convenient for both parties. Furthermore, SmartMove is FCRA-compliant and provides built-in adverse action letters, simplifying the often complex process of legal compliance. You can learn more about TransUnion SmartMove and its benefits for finding ideal tenants.

SmartMove offers essential features like full credit reports leveraging TransUnion's data, national criminal background checks, and eviction history reports. Income Insights allows for quick verification of an applicant's income, a crucial aspect of the screening process. While SmartMove excels in its data accuracy and pay-as-you-go model, it does have some limitations. The per-report cost can be higher compared to subscription-based tenant screening software, especially for high-volume users like tenant placement companies. Customization options for screening criteria are limited, and the platform lacks integrated property management features found in some competing software. Finally, some users have reported difficulties reaching customer service.

Pricing: SmartMove operates on a pay-as-you-go model. Pricing details are available on their website.

Technical Requirements: SmartMove is a web-based platform accessible through any modern web browser. No special software installation is required.

Implementation Tips:

• Clearly communicate the screening process and associated fees to applicants upfront.
• Take advantage of the applicant-pay feature to streamline the process.
• Familiarize yourself with the reports and how to interpret the data.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable fair housing laws and regulations.

Despite its higher per-report cost and limited customization, TransUnion SmartMove’s direct access to TransUnion's credit data, combined with its applicant-pay feature and FCRA compliance tools, makes it a valuable tenant screening software option for landlords and property managers seeking reliable, pay-as-you-go screening. It's especially beneficial for those prioritizing data accuracy and a streamlined screening process.

3. RentPrep

RentPrep stands out in the tenant screening software landscape by prioritizing accuracy through its human-verified approach. Unlike fully automated systems, RentPrep combines automated data collection with manual review by FCRA-certified screeners. This blend offers a compelling balance for landlords seeking reliable tenant information without sacrificing speed. Their services are particularly valuable for those who want a more hands-on approach to screening and appreciate the added layer of scrutiny provided by human verification. This focus on accuracy makes them an excellent choice for property managers, especially those managing larger portfolios where the cost of a bad tenant can be significant.

RentPrep offers tiered packages, ranging from basic background checks to comprehensive reports including credit, criminal, and eviction histories. This flexibility allows landlords and property managers of single-family homes, large rental portfolios, and even tenant placement companies to choose the level of detail that best suits their needs and budget. While some packages may not include full credit reports, the à la carte approach allows users to supplement the basic reports with specific information if needed. This customizable approach differentiates RentPrep from some competitors who lock users into one-size-fits-all plans. Further enhancing its appeal, RentPrep operates on a fee-per-report basis, eliminating monthly subscription fees, which is particularly attractive for landlords with vacancies or smaller portfolios.

One of RentPrep's key strengths is its fast turnaround time, often delivering reports within one business day. This speed, combined with the accuracy ensured by human review, can significantly accelerate the tenant placement process. For time-sensitive situations, such as a competitive rental market, this rapid processing can be crucial. Additionally, RentPrep provides excellent customer service, including phone support, a valuable asset for landlords who may require assistance interpreting reports or navigating the screening process. This direct access to support sets RentPrep apart from more automated, less personalized tenant screening software.

While RentPrep excels in accuracy and customer service, there are some areas where it lags behind more tech-forward competitors. The lack of an automated tenant application system in the basic packages may require some manual data entry. Also, its limited integrations with other property management software can be a drawback for those seeking a fully streamlined workflow. However, for landlords prioritizing accuracy and personalized service, these limitations may be outweighed by the benefits of human-verified reports and the flexible pricing model. Furthermore, while the interface may appear less sleek than some competitors, it is designed for ease of use and focuses on providing clear, concise reports.

Key Features:

• Human-verified screening reports: Minimizes errors and provides a higher level of confidence in the information.
• Customizable screening packages: Choose the level of detail that meets your specific requirements and budget.
• No site inspection requirements: Streamlines the screening process and saves time.
• FCRA-certified screeners: Ensures compliance and accurate reporting.
• Landlord phone support: Provides personalized assistance and guidance.

Pros:

• Human verification reduces false positives.
• Flexible pricing options with no monthly fees.
• Fast turnaround time (within 1 business day).
• Excellent customer service with phone support.

Cons:

• Some packages don't include full credit reports.
• No automated tenant application system in basic packages.
• Less tech-forward than some competitors.
• Limited property management integrations.

Website: https://www.rentprep.com/

RentPrep is a valuable tool for landlords seeking accurate and reliable tenant screening services. Its human-verified approach, flexible pricing, and excellent customer service make it a strong contender in the tenant screening software market, particularly for those who prioritize accuracy over complete automation.

4. Avail: All-in-One Property Management with Tenant Screening

Avail stands out as a strong contender in the tenant screening software landscape by offering a comprehensive property management platform that goes beyond basic screening functionality. This makes it an ideal choice for landlords and property managers seeking an all-in-one solution to streamline their entire rental process. While some services focus solely on tenant screening, Avail integrates it seamlessly with other essential tools, from online rental applications and digital leasing to rent collection and maintenance tracking. This integrated approach simplifies property management and keeps all your important information in one central hub.

One of Avail's core strengths for tenant screening lies in its partnership with TransUnion. This integration provides landlords with access to robust credit reports, criminal background checks, and eviction history reports, all crucial data points for making informed tenant decisions. Avail also offers customizable screening recommendations, allowing you to fine-tune your criteria based on your specific requirements. For applicants, Avail offers a streamlined experience where they can pay for their own screening reports, simplifying the process for both parties. This feature can be a significant advantage, especially for landlords managing multiple properties.

For landlords with a limited number of properties, Avail's free basic plan can be an attractive entry point. This plan allows you to test the platform and its core features before committing to a paid subscription. As your portfolio grows and your needs evolve, you can upgrade to a paid plan to unlock advanced features like online rent collection and more robust reporting.

Features:

• TransUnion credit, criminal, and eviction reports
• Online rental applications integrated with screening
• Digital leasing with e-signatures
• Online rent collection and maintenance requests
• Customizable screening recommendations

Pros:

• Comprehensive property management platform beyond just screening
• Free basic plan available for landlords with limited properties
• Applicants can pay for their own screening reports
• User-friendly interface for both landlords and tenants

Cons:

• Advanced features require a paid subscription
• Less specialized in screening than dedicated services
• Limited custom screening criteria options
• Some features only available on higher-tier plans

Pricing and Technical Requirements:

Avail offers a free basic plan for landlords with one property. Paid plans start at a reasonable monthly fee and scale based on the number of units managed and the features required. The platform is web-based and accessible from any device with an internet connection, eliminating the need for specific software installations.

Comparison with Similar Tools:

While dedicated tenant screening services might offer more granular customization options for background checks, Avail's strength lies in its comprehensive approach. For landlords who also need tools for managing leases, collecting rent, and handling maintenance, Avail offers a more integrated and efficient workflow compared to using disparate services. This is especially beneficial for single-family property managers, property management companies, large rental portfolio owners, and tenant placement companies who handle numerous properties and tenants.

Implementation/Setup Tips:

Getting started with Avail is straightforward. Simply create an account, add your property details, and begin creating rental listings. The platform guides you through each step of the process, from setting up online applications to customizing your screening criteria.

Why Avail Deserves Its Place on the List:

Avail earns its spot on this list of top tenant screening software because it provides a well-rounded solution that addresses multiple needs of landlords and property managers. Its integration of tenant screening within a broader property management platform simplifies operations and offers a user-friendly experience for both landlords and tenants. While dedicated screening services might offer more niche features, Avail’s all-in-one approach makes it a compelling option for those seeking a streamlined and efficient rental management solution. Visit their website to learn more: https://www.avail.co/

5. TurboTenant

TurboTenant stands out as a valuable option for landlords seeking free tenant screening software. This platform provides a comprehensive suite of tools designed to streamline the entire rental process, from marketing vacant properties to screening prospective tenants and collecting rent. A key advantage of TurboTenant is its cost-effectiveness for landlords, as applicants cover the screening fees. This makes it a particularly attractive option for independent landlords and smaller property management companies looking to minimize expenses. The platform's integrated approach allows users to manage all aspects of their rentals in one place, enhancing efficiency and simplifying complex tasks. For example, you can easily transition an applicant from the initial inquiry stage to a thorough background check and then seamlessly onto a lease agreement, all within the TurboTenant system.

TurboTenant's tenant screening features include credit reports, criminal background checks, and eviction history reports, giving landlords a comprehensive overview of an applicant's suitability. These reports are presented in an easy-to-read format with clear recommendations, helping landlords make informed decisions quickly. Beyond screening, TurboTenant also offers automated reference checks, further simplifying the tenant verification process. For landlords juggling multiple properties or with limited staff, this automation can be a significant time-saver. Furthermore, TurboTenant integrates with multiple listing sites, enabling one-click marketing of rental vacancies to broaden reach and attract a larger pool of potential tenants. Learn more about TurboTenant for a deeper dive into its functionalities.

While the basic version of TurboTenant is free for landlords, some advanced features require a premium subscription. This could be a consideration for larger property management companies or those with more complex needs. Another potential drawback is the limited customization of screening criteria compared to some competing tenant screening software. Additionally, while TurboTenant offers credit reports, the level of detail may be less extensive than that provided by dedicated credit reporting agencies. Finally, users on the free plan might experience slower customer support response times.

For those managing single-family homes or smaller portfolios, TurboTenant provides a user-friendly and cost-effective solution for tenant screening. Larger property management companies and those with high-volume screening needs may find the limitations of the free version restrictive and should carefully consider the benefits of the premium subscription or alternative tenant screening software options. Regardless of the size of your portfolio, understanding your specific needs and comparing different tenant screening software is crucial to selecting the right tool for your business.

6. Tenant Background Search

Tenant Background Search earns its spot on this list due to its laser focus on providing comprehensive and accurate tenant screening services. It's a valuable tool for landlords and property managers who prioritize thorough background checks but don't need the extra bells and whistles of a full-fledged property management platform. This makes it a particularly attractive option for those managing smaller portfolios or individual properties, or for tenant placement companies that specialize solely in the screening process. It allows you to delve deep into an applicant's history, empowering you to make informed decisions and minimize potential risks.

This tenant screening software offers a robust suite of checks, including nationwide criminal background checks, credit history reports (complete with FICO scores), eviction history searches across all counties, SSN verification, address history, and reports on bankruptcies, liens, and judgments. This comprehensive approach allows you to gain a holistic view of an applicant's financial and legal standing, helping you identify potential red flags that might otherwise be missed. For example, the nationwide criminal background check helps mitigate security risks, while the eviction history search provides insight into an applicant's past rental behavior. The inclusion of credit reports with FICO scores offers a clear picture of their financial responsibility.

One of the key advantages of Tenant Background Search is its pay-per-use model. This eliminates the need for subscriptions, making it a cost-effective solution for landlords who don't screen tenants regularly. It also puts you in direct control of the screening process, letting you choose precisely which checks you need for each applicant. Furthermore, report delivery is typically very fast, often within minutes, allowing you to keep your leasing process moving quickly.

While Tenant Background Search excels in its specialized area, it's important to be aware of its limitations. It doesn't offer integrated property management features like lease management or online rent collection. Its user interface, while functional, is less modern than some competitors. There’s no integrated rental application system or automated recommendations based on screening criteria. Therefore, if you're seeking an all-in-one property management solution, this might not be the ideal choice. However, if your primary focus is robust, accurate, and affordable tenant screening, Tenant Background Search is a strong contender.

Compared to other tenant screening software solutions that bundle services with property management tools, Tenant Background Search stands out for its dedicated approach to screening and its flexible pay-per-use pricing. While platforms like AppFolio or Buildium offer more extensive features, they often come with higher price tags and may be overkill for those solely focused on tenant screening.

Implementing Tenant Background Search is straightforward. Simply visit their website (https://www.tenantbackgroundsearch.com/), create an account, and you can begin ordering reports. No complex setup or technical expertise is required. This makes it a practical choice for landlords of all technical skill levels, from individuals managing a single property to large portfolio owners.

7. Zillow Rental Manager

Zillow Rental Manager streamlines the often tedious process of finding and screening tenants, making it a worthwhile consideration for landlords leveraging the Zillow platform. This tenant screening software integrates seamlessly with Zillow's massive rental listing network, providing significant exposure for your properties and simplifying the entire rental workflow from listing to lease signing. Its comprehensive approach allows landlords to manage applications, conduct background checks, and even create leases, all within a single platform. This centralization can be a major time-saver for busy property managers and landlords juggling multiple properties.

Zillow Rental Manager's tenant screening reports include credit checks powered by Experian and TransUnion, criminal background checks covering all 50 states, eviction history reports, and income verification. This breadth of information allows landlords to make well-informed decisions about prospective tenants. The platform also offers helpful recommendations and insights based on the screening results, further aiding in the evaluation process. One particularly useful feature for applicants is the ability to transfer their application between Zillow-listed properties, simplifying the application process for renters and potentially increasing the pool of qualified applicants for landlords.

For property management companies and large rental portfolio owners, Zillow Rental Manager's integration with the main Zillow platform offers significant advantages. The massive exposure provided by Zillow's network can dramatically reduce vacancy times. The streamlined application and screening workflow also contributes to increased efficiency, allowing property managers to process applications quickly. Tenant placement companies can also benefit from this integrated approach, streamlining their placement process and offering a more user-friendly experience for both landlords and tenants.

While Zillow Rental Manager offers a convenient and largely effective solution, it does have some limitations. The screening costs can be higher compared to some standalone tenant screening services. Customization options for screening criteria are also somewhat limited, which might be a drawback for landlords with specific requirements. Furthermore, while Zillow Rental Manager offers basic property management tools, it is not as feature-rich as dedicated property management software solutions, potentially requiring landlords to utilize multiple platforms. Finally, some users have reported slow customer service response times, which can be frustrating when dealing with time-sensitive tenant issues.

Pricing: Zillow Rental Manager offers a free listing option, but tenant screening fees apply per application. These fees can vary based on the reports requested and the applicant's location.

Technical Requirements: Zillow Rental Manager is a web-based platform, accessible through any modern web browser. No special software installation is required.

Implementation/Setup Tips: Getting started with Zillow Rental Manager is straightforward. Simply create a Zillow account, list your property, and enable tenant screening. Familiarize yourself with the platform’s features and reporting options to maximize its effectiveness. It's also advisable to compare the screening costs with other tenant screening providers to ensure you are getting the best value.

Comparison with similar tools: Compared to standalone tenant screening services like SmartMove or Cozy, Zillow Rental Manager prioritizes integration with its listing platform. While this is a significant advantage for landlords already using Zillow, those seeking more granular control over screening criteria or lower pricing might find dedicated screening platforms more appealing. Zillow Rental Manager strikes a balance between convenience and functionality, making it a strong option for landlords prioritizing streamlined processes within the Zillow ecosystem. Link to website: https://www.zillow.com/rental-manager/

8. AppFolio

AppFolio stands out as a robust tenant screening software solution specifically designed for professional property managers and landlords with larger portfolios. It goes beyond basic screening by offering a comprehensive suite of property management tools, making it a one-stop shop for everything from tenant applications and screenings to accounting and maintenance. This enterprise-grade platform provides in-depth credit, criminal, and eviction reports, combined with income verification, empowering property managers to make informed decisions. Its advanced features, like AI-powered screening recommendations and global watchlist monitoring, contribute to more efficient and secure tenant selection.

For property management companies dealing with a high volume of applications, AppFolio streamlines the entire tenant screening process. Imagine automating the screening of dozens of applicants against customized criteria, receiving AI-driven recommendations, and seamlessly integrating the results into your existing property management workflow. This efficiency translates into significant time savings and reduces the risk of human error. Larger landlords and tenant placement companies also benefit from the comprehensive nature of AppFolio, centralizing all tenant-related information in one secure platform. Features like identity verification with fraud detection add an extra layer of security, protecting your investments from potential risks.

AppFolio truly shines with its integration capabilities. The platform seamlessly blends tenant screening with other essential property management functions, such as accounting, maintenance, leasing, and communication tools. This cohesive ecosystem simplifies operations and allows for better data management across all aspects of your business. For instance, you can easily track applicant progress, communicate with potential tenants, and manage lease agreements, all within the same platform. If you're already using Showdigs, you can leverage their integration with AppFolio to streamline your leasing process even further. Learn more about AppFolio.

While AppFolio’s pricing isn’t publicly available, it’s important to note that its enterprise-level features come with a higher cost structure than simpler tenant screening software. It typically requires a minimum of 50 units, making it less suitable for individual landlords with only a few properties. The platform also has a steeper learning curve due to its extensive features, which might require dedicated training for your team.

Pros:

• Enterprise-level features tailored for professional property managers
• Comprehensive property management solution beyond just screening
• Highly customizable screening criteria and workflows
• Excellent analytics and reporting capabilities
• AI-powered recommendations and global watchlist monitoring

Cons:

• Higher cost structure designed for professional managers
• Minimum unit requirements (typically 50+ units)
• Steeper learning curve than simpler solutions
• May be excessive for individual landlords with few properties

Website: https://www.appfolio.com/

AppFolio deserves its place on this list because it offers a powerful and integrated solution for professional property managers needing more than just basic tenant screening. Its robust features, automation capabilities, and comprehensive property management tools make it a valuable asset for streamlining operations and mitigating risks in a competitive rental market. However, its cost and complexity make it more suitable for larger portfolios and professional property management businesses.

Tenant Screening Software Feature Comparison

Making the Best Choice for Your Rental Business

Choosing the right tenant screening software can significantly impact the success of your rental business. From streamlining your processes and reducing vacancies to protecting your investment and mitigating risk, the benefits are undeniable. We’ve explored eight popular options, ranging from comprehensive platforms like AppFolio and Zillow Rental Manager to more specialized tools like RentPrep and TransUnion SmartMove. Remember that factors such as budget, portfolio size, desired automation level, and integration with existing systems are crucial when making your decision. Smaller landlords might find tools like Avail or TurboTenant sufficient, while larger property management companies may benefit from the robust features of Showdigs or Tenant Background Search.

Managing the various documents involved in tenant screening can be a complex process. Streamlining this workflow with dedicated document collection software can significantly improve efficiency and reduce errors. According to Top 8 Document Collection Software Solutions for 2025 from Superdocu, such software can automate the collection, organization, and secure storage of important tenant documents. This allows you to focus more on finding the right tenants and less on administrative tasks. Ultimately, the best tenant screening software is the one that best aligns with your specific needs and helps you achieve your business goals.

By carefully considering these factors and revisiting the features outlined in this guide, you can confidently select the perfect tenant screening software to optimize your rental operations and build a thriving business. Looking for a robust platform that streamlines showings, applications, and tenant screening all in one place? Explore Showdigs to discover how their comprehensive solution can elevate your rental business.