The multifamily tech conversation has shifted significantly. Where there was once uncertainty around property technology, OPTECH 2025 highlighted a more confident and knowledgeable audience. Attendees are now approaching innovation with clarity, strategic intent, and defined roles focused on implementation.
Here are the key themes that stood out.
Unified Platforms Are the Priority
A clear trend was the move away from fragmented tools toward unified operational platforms. Operators are actively consolidating vendors and seeking out technology that integrates directly with core systems. Many attendees reported juggling a dozen different apps across their portfolios, creating operational inefficiencies and staff frustration.
The value is increasingly placed on solutions that support centralized operations, improve visibility across properties, and tie directly into performance metrics like Net Operating Income (NOI).
According to Parks Associates, 34% of apartment renters are willing to pay an additional $60 per month for a comprehensive smart home and security package. This creates both an opportunity for added revenue and a compelling case for integrated technology strategies.
ROI Must Be Clear
With rent growth stagnant in many markets, operators are closely scrutinizing where their dollars go. They want proof that technology investments can streamline staffing, reduce maintenance costs, and optimize energy use.
Solutions that connect the dots between automation and efficiency are gaining traction. Smart platforms need to do more than work well; they must clearly demonstrate how they reduce labor and support bottom-line results.
AI Needs to Be Practical and Transparent
Interest in AI remains strong, but skepticism is growing. Many attendees voiced concern over vague AI marketing and questioned whether these tools genuinely add value.
What generated real interest were AI-powered tools that deliver measurable benefits, for example, predictive maintenance that prevents equipment failures, or leasing automation that saves time without compromising service. Operators also emphasized the importance of transparency: they want to understand how AI arrives at its conclusions, and they want residents to know when they’re interacting with AI systems.
Streamlining the Resident Experience
Technology should improve the resident experience, not complicate it. That message came through in several sessions and conversations. Too many residents are asked to navigate multiple apps just to manage life in their apartment. Operators are looking for ways to centralize communication, access, and energy controls in one seamless experience.
Smart access control, integrated resident portals, and self-guided tours all contribute to a smoother, more convenient environment. But ease of use is critical. If the experience feels disjointed, adoption and satisfaction will both suffer.
Looking Ahead
OPTECH 2025 confirmed that property technology is no longer a secondary consideration for multifamily operators. It’s embedded in operational strategy, resident experience planning, and financial forecasting.
PointCentral remains committed to helping the industry evolve through unified, scalable, and deeply integrated smart property solutions. From access control and energy management to AI-enhanced automation, we’re working to ensure our clients stay competitive in a complex market.
If you’re interested in setting up a demo with PointCentral, contact us here today.
