"Better Technology" as a sales pitch?

I ran across Elevate Property Management's Twitter account today, and their short description was interesting in one aspect: "We provide you a better place to call home – better managers, better maintenance, better technology, better living."

What I found really interesting was that "better technology" was a part of their core benefits to prospects and residents. I think most, if not all, property management companies view technology as an integral part of their operations internally, but I wonder how many companies view it as a sales element that will inspire renters/prospects.

Thoughts?

Brent I think it is a great approach and I feel that it affects all markets in property management. I can see USB chargers part of new construction. WiFi is a great amenity for the clubhouse area. People love their gadgets and I certainly would take into consideration technology if I were to need to rent an apartment.

I would almost call technology as a 'soft' benefit, (as in not something that will grab one's attention but which will give a feeling of 'Ahhhh, cool! when utilized) and one which most assuredly is going to be expected by tenants on new or refurbished construction going forward. A simple example, but illustrative--most commuters are using some kind of electronic device on their rides to or from work. Metro North, in its new M-8 cars, has electrical outlets at every seat. Same thing applies to residences--keep fingers on the pulse of what tenants will want (and even expect) in terms of technology and make sure your property exceeds expectations!

"better technology" - target being new hires - Yes. Amongst the different firms we work with some still rely on paper|pen reporting. Others have installed Operating packages that interact with a corp office. Common thread we hear from Mgrs, we need a better online reporting system.

Does better technology work as Sales Pitch to a renter? Depends on the technology.

What will get their attention is Building Technology: Green Applications

Solar Panels - Charging Stations for Electric Cars - Security apps - easy online apps that allow residents to quickly contact and communicate with Property Mgrs.

Technology will work depending on who your audience is. This is one where if you are dealing with someone who has been raised in the techno boom it is going to have a whole lot more appeal, than that person raised say in the 40's. So, the technology part I believe has its place. When I talk to a 60 year old I talk in terms which they are used to, and I do not mean stereo typing either, because there are some of us which are very tech savvy, but maybe not to the same degree as that 21 year old.

I would use it though because in some of the new homes sales they sure do lay on the technological advances that they have put into their homes to make the life of their customers better!

Costs saving technologies go a long ways!

I will agree with Nate in regards to knowing the right time and place to use technology in your sales pitch. We work with property managers and property owners on a daily basis. Our clients that have reached out to us, interested in our technology service, was because their residents were asking for it.