AI leasing agents enhance renting for tenants
Leasing an apartment is becoming a round-the-clock experience.
AI-powered virtual leasing agents help address rent growth slowdowns and staffing shortages, allowing operators to connect with prospective renters who search for homes outside typical business hours.
An AI teammate named Kit
RKW Residential, a third-party manager overseeing over 35,000 units, introduced an AI assistant called Kit, built on Funnel’s customer-relationship platform. Sarah Randolph, the company’s director of marketing technology, said Kit functions as a core part of the leasing team.
The assistant works alongside staff to engage prospects, convert leads, and arrange property tours. It responds instantly to inquiries, even when offices are closed, and books tours without human input.
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During a 90-day test at two properties in the same submarket, Kit delivered immediate responses to all after-hours leads. Between 70% and 72% of tours were scheduled by Kit during those hours.
Randolph noted that missed opportunities due to unavailable staff were a persistent concern. Kit eliminates that problem by meeting renters on their own terms.
Centralization without compromise
The technology also challenges skepticism about centralized operating models in third-party property management. Many assumed such models couldn’t provide the personal touch owners demand. RKW’s results show that assumption may be outdated.
Funnel’s platform merges renter data into a single guest card, removing the need for agents to juggle multiple property-specific systems. This streamlined setup saves time and lets specialized teams focus on different stages of the customer journey without redundant work.
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For RKW, the blend of AI and centralization has become a key advantage when attracting new owner groups. Randolph explained that clients now expect automation, and a virtual leasing agent integrated with a renter-focused CRM gives the company an edge.
Randolph advised property managers exploring AI to prioritize the renter experience. She recommended asking questions, testing multiple demos, and evaluating functionality thoroughly. While results matter, the experience for the person on the other end should guide decisions.
For now, Kit gives RKW a competitive advantage. As more operators adopt similar tools, AI-powered leasing may soon reflect an industry adapting to modern living patterns.
