By now, the industry knows that self-guided tours (SGTs) can make a huge impact on leasing operations, but that doesn’t mean they’re infallible. Like any new technology, SGTs have to be implemented with care and consideration, or prospective renters may end up confused or frustrated. This is especially a risk for large multifamily properties, where getting lost on a self-guided tour can easily lead to a missed opportunity.
That’s why Rently created Wayfinding for self-guided tours, a GPS-style mapping technology that guides renters from parking, to the entrance, and to selected units and amenities.
What is Wayfinding?
Wayfinding is Rently’s proprietary GPS-style navigation layer built directly into the self-guided touring experience for multifamily communities. Think of it as Google Maps designed specifically for an apartment community, accessible on any smartphone through Rently’s app or web browser. The best part is that Wayfinding operates without the need for Wi-Fi, beacons, or on-site signage.
Rently Self-Guided Tours with Wayfinding combines enterprise-grade smart access hardware or shackle-style lockboxes with intelligent leasing automation lead nurturing. Prospects verify their identity, receive a secure, time-limited access code, and tour your property at their convenience — whether that’s Saturday evening or Monday at 7 AM. You get a notification of the tour to stay in full control. They get the experience they expect. Self-touring should not be a lesser experience compared with agent-led tours, just a different one. It’s important to offer both options to maximize lead capture and allow renters the flexibility to tour how they want, when they want.
When a prospect arrives for their tour, Rently’s Wayfinding feature activates on their phone as a real-time “blue dot” map. It guides them through each step of their visit, including where to park when they arrive, how to locate the lockbox or access control panel at the community entrance, and the best route to walk to their scheduled unit(s).
How It Works
When a community signs up with Rently’s Self-Guided Touring platform, we ask for a unit list and community map (or create one for you). We combine this with satellite imagery to create a dynamic Wayfinding map. From there, all you have to do is activate your units and customize it with additional details like amenity descriptions and parking guidelines.
Here’s what the result looks like for your prospects:
1. Scheduling a tour
Renters can book self-guided tours from Rently’s own ILS or from our clients’ listings Apartments.com, Zillow, or another integrated ILS. In order to book a tour with Rently, they must create an account and complete an ID verification process. This part is the same for all renters and properties, with or without Wayfinding enabled.
2. Pre-tour correspondence
In between the time scheduling and the time of the tour, Rently will send reminder emails or SMS messages customized by the property manager. This can include not only a reminder of the date/time of the booking, but also information on the community and neighborhood to keep their interest fresh. (With self-guided tours, renters often complete tours the same day they schedule them, in less than 24 hours.)
3. Arrival for tour
When the renter arrives at the community, a GPS-style map appears in the Rently app or web browser. No download required, no Wi-Fi nor beacons needed. This guides them to the best parking, as designated by the property manager. Step-by-step directions lead them from the parking lot to the main entrance. Then, they receive a temporary code for the lockbox or access panel at the main community entrance. This code expires after the allotted tour time.
4. A custom tour experience
From there, Wayfinding guides the prospect to the unit they’re scheduled to tour, where they can explore independently. Prospects can add additional units and choose from a list amenities to tour as well, and the app provides the relevant expiring codes to access each. Amenity icons on the map remind them what else is available on the property.
5. Post-tour follow-up
Once the tour is complete, renters use the map to find their way back. Automated follow-up messages go out on behalf of the property management company, prompting renters to apply.
You can also watch this video to get a sense of how it works:
Why Wayfinding Matters
Self-guided tours have already proven their value; they expand availability, save time for leasing staff, and accommodate many renters who prefer to tour outside of traditional business hours. But a self-guided tour that leaves prospects confused or lost does more harm than good, creating a negative first impression of your community.
Rently’s Wayfinding GPS-style mapping technology closes that gap for multifamily communities. It ensures that your prospects are getting the best first impression of your community, regardless of how they choose to tour. Our client data shows that Wayfinding increases community ratings by 20% on average. We also offer 24/7 renter support, so your staff doesn’t have to deal with trying to guide frustrated prospects over the phone, taking time away from higher-priority tasks.
To learn more or get started with Rently Wayfinding, book a demo today. If you’d like more tips on how to create a positive touring experience, check out our blog, How Smart Home Tech Facilitates Self-Guided Tours.
