What happens when thousands of property pros come together? If you were at Apartmentalize this year, you know the answer: a flood of insights, real-world examples, and future-forward strategies that prove the multifamily industry is evolving, but perhaps not in the way you might expect.
Yes, AI and automation made plenty of appearances. But the biggest message from the floor? Before chasing the latest tech trend, you need to get the fundamentals right. Think safety. Think security. Think resident satisfaction. When those foundational pieces are strong, tech becomes a tool for better service and not a distraction from it.
Here’s a roundup of the takeaways that had everyone talking (and taking notes)—from the growing BTR buzz to the surprising power of a working coffee machine:
1. Safety and Security Come First
From access control to perimeter video and video intercom systems, property security emerged as a non-negotiable foundation. Safety isn’t just a value-add, it’s an expectation. Residents want to feel safe, and property owners demand secure systems they can trust.
Solutions like smart locks and video intercoms enhance physical security and also contribute to a smoother living experience. Tools like PointCentral’s Safety Button were especially well-received, showing strong interest in tech that reinforces resident well-being without complexity.
2. Resident Retention Is in the Spotlight
In an era of limited rent growth, retention strategies were top of mind and one worthwhile insight was on amenity usage data. When captured and used effectively, it can reveal much about a resident’s engagement and likelihood to renew.
By analyzing how and when amenities like gyms or lounges are accessed, property managers can personalize communication and preemptively address pain points. In one example, something as minor as a malfunctioning coffee machine was the top complaint in a luxury building, underscoring how small, inexpensive fixes can dramatically impact satisfaction.
3. Centralization: Resilience, Not Reduction
Centralization is here to stay but the focus at Apartmentalize wasn’t on cost-cutting. Instead, it was on making teams more resilient and scalable. Property managers are increasingly structuring centralized roles—such as leasing agents—so they can serve multiple properties across regions. This flexibility not only supports growth but also reduces the risk tied to turnover.
Rather than replacing roles, centralization is redefining them. Specialists are emerging in areas like resident experience, while administrative tasks move offsite. When done right, it offers clearer career paths, better work-life balance, and consistency across portfolios.
4. Smart Tech Can Prevent Hidden ROI Drains
Sessions led by operators like Gables Residential and Centerspace highlighted how smart tech is being used to tackle ‘invisible’ inefficiencies. Water leaks, HVAC overuse, and siloed data systems were all cited as common revenue drains.
Solutions like smart thermostats, leak detection sensors, and code-based entry systems are already delivering ROI, cutting utility bills, reducing maintenance hours, and improving transparency. Centerspace, for example, reported a 56% reduction in water expenses using leak detection tech.
5. Build-to-Rent: Potential and Pitfalls
The build-to-rent (BTR) model drew significant attention this year. While BTR homes appeal to renters with features like added parking and storage, challenges remain. High operating costs, especially in hot climates, and construction delays are straining profitability.
Still, BTR retention rates outpace traditional multifamily—65% vs. 50%—indicating there’s value in the model if operational inefficiencies can be addressed with the right tech stack.
6. AI Is Evolving, but Still Needs Guardrails
AI was everywhere but not everyone agreed on its role. The consensus was that AI should support, not overshadow, the human experience. From document audits to resident communication, AI is proving useful, but companies must set clear boundaries.
If you’re not facing pushback during AI implementation, you may be missing critical feedback. AI isn’t a silver bullet, it’s a tool that requires strategy, transparency, and strong governance.
Final Thoughts
Apartmentalize 2025 made one thing clear: technology should follow strategy, not lead it. For property managers, that means starting with the basics—security, service, and smart operations—and building upward from there. Whether you’re considering centralization, predictive maintenance, or expanding into BTR, your tech stack should enhance the human experience, not complicate it.
Want to find out more on multifamily technology? Read our blog on multifamily technology trends to watch out for over the rest of 2025.
