Proptech Pulse

As property owners and operators face rising costs, workforce challenges, and increasing pressure to deliver exceptional resident experiences, technology is becoming an essential part of the conversation. But investing in more technology doesn't always translate to better results.
On PropTech Pulse, host, Shelley Robinson https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleylrobinson/, sits down with Kevin Donnelly of RETTC https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-donnelly-a3a23457/ to explore the evolving PropTech landscape, the realities of AI adoption, and the operational and regulatory challenges shaping the multifamily industry.
Shelley and Kevin discuss why multifamily organizations need to move beyond simply adding new platforms and instead focus on creating integrated, flexible technology ecosystems that improve efficiency, empower on-site teams, and strengthen resident relationships.
From AI governance and data interoperability to housing affordability and emerging regulations, this conversation offers a timely perspective on what multifamily leaders should prioritize as they prepare for 2027 and beyond.
Timestamps
00:00 - Kevin Donnelly’s outlook for property tech and multifamily
03:21 - Why some operators are waiting on AI
06:08 - From “future-proof” to “future flexible”
07:44 - Tech fatigue across property teams and residents
09:30 - Keeping human support in an AI-enabled housing experience
14:49 - Data governance, integrations, and adoption barriers
18:39 - Data centers, energy costs, and housing affordability
22:26 - Connecting new tech investment with housing supply
24:23 - AI regulation and California’s altered-image requirements
29:37 - ChatGPT, predictive maintenance, and five-year predictions
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What if the future of multifamily leasing isn't about replacing people with AI, but empowering them to perform better?
In this episode of PropTech Pulse, host Shelley Robinson https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleylrobinson/ sits down with Nick Deveau https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-deveau-a6241379/ of Grotto to explore how AI-powered coaching, personalized renter experiences, and human connection are transforming the multifamily industry.
As operators face increasing pressure to improve occupancy, reduce vacancy, and drive NOI, Nick shares why the next competitive advantage may come from investing in better human interactions rather than more automation.
Nick discusses using AI and data-driven coaching to help leasing professionals improve sales performance, personalize prospect interactions, and deliver measurable financial results.
Plus, Nick announces Grotto's new partnership with Apartment List! The partnership brings valuable renter preference data directly into leasing calls and tours, helping teams deliver more personalized experiences. Early A/B testing at Weidner Apartment Homes showed a 35% increase in call-to-tour conversions when leasing teams used these insights.
Chapters
00:00 - Nick Deveau’s view of the future of multifamily technology
02:06 - Why demand is returning for human-guided leasing calls
03:52 - Multifamily’s AI adoption and where automation fits
06:03 - Loneliness, connection, and the renter experience
08:06 - Moving from drip campaigns to consultative leasing
10:34 - The training gap and growing complexity of on-site work
13:19 - How Grotto turns top performance into coaching
15:22 - Using call, tour, and conversion data to refine the playbook
18:14 - Hillpoint results: conversion gains and faster new-hire ramp-up
21:36 - Why leasing may need sales-oriented career paths and pay
23:06 - Weidner’s randomized test and the value of measuring vacancy days
26:17 - How stronger calls prepare agents for more relevant tours
28:49 - Grotto and Apartment List bring renter preferences into leasing
31:34 - Early partnership result: a 35% lift in call-to-tour conversion
33:36 - Shelley asks Nick which AI tools he relies on
36:39 - Closing and Optech mention
Learn more about the Grotto and Apartment List partnership: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/apartment-list-and-grotto-ai-partner-to-help-leasing-teams-deliver-a-more-personalized-rental-experience-302927242.html
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The best multifamily tech does not replace people - it gives them more time to do what actually drives retention, trust, and revenue.
Shelley Robinson https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleylrobinson/ talks with Ty Specht https://www.linkedin.com/in/ty-specht-a1064740/ and Megan Eales Monroe https://www.linkedin.com/in/megancmonroe/ to unpack how Foxen was built around a very specific multifamily pain point: renters insurance compliance that works for operators, residents, and onsite teams. The conversation also explores how the industry is shifting toward better communication, stronger integrations, and service models that use automation without losing the human touch.
They also dig into Foxen’s renter survey, including what renters actually value in ancillary programs, why choice and transparency matter, and how resident experience and performance outcomes can work together instead of competing.
Timestamps
00:00 - Intro to Foxen and the operator-led origin story
00:36 - Why renters insurance compliance needed a better resident experience
02:02 - The move-in friction problem onsite teams used to face
03:46 - Learning to blend technology with human interaction
05:36 - Why AI still falls short on tone and emotion
06:58 - The biggest operational challenge: too many systems and poor integrations
09:04 - Foxen's renter survey of nearly 1,000 renters
10:13 - Renters value ancillary services when benefits are clearly explained
12:01 - Choice matters more than price in service adoption
14:04 - Educating residents and onsite teams on program value
15:33 - Why self-service portals matter to renters
16:35 - Pet management as a growing product and industry priority
18:35 - The documentation gap around emotional support animals
19:19 - Generational differences in willingness to pay for services
20:45 - How Foxen’s roadmap connects to the future of multifamily
22:02 - Resident retention as a bigger priority than pure ancillary revenue
23:23 - The message Ty would want owners and operators to hear
25:23 - Future-proof skills in an AI-driven multifamily world
28:03 - Why AI chat experiences can be overhyped
30:27 - Using automation to prevent compliance gaps before they happen
Foxen is a leading proptech innovator delivering value-add solutions and services that increase revenue and reduce risk for multifamily owners and operators. Our fully integrated platform enables 100% renters insurance compliance, rent reporting and credit building programs for residents, and streamlined pet management.
Learn more about Foxen: https://www.foxen.com/
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For years, multifamily operators have added point solutions to solve individual problems, creating increasingly complex tech stacks, disconnected data, and more systems for teams to manage.
In this episode, Shelley Robinson speaks with Prasan Kale https://www.linkedin.com/in/prasan-kale-07933b7/ and Kevin Rippon https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-rippon/ from Outcome Labs about why multifamily software has become too fragmented, too manual, and too expensive.
They dig into how Outcome Labs is approaching the industry differently by building around data, workflows, and real business outcomes instead of forcing teams into another point solution.
Shelley, Prasan, and Kevin also dig into what this shift could mean for multifamily teams. As repetitive administrative work becomes increasingly automated, employees can spend more time on higher-value work: understanding the business, making better decisions, engaging residents, strengthening relationships, and improving property performance.
Timestamps
00:00 - Welcome to PropTech Pulse and the problem Outcome is solving
00:36 - Why frustration and anger sparked the original product idea
02:11 - Why Kevin joined after seeing the data silos problem firsthand
05:49 - Working backward from outcomes instead of selling cookie-cutter software
06:55 - Customer type one: fast, affordable lease abstraction at scale
07:55 - Customer type two: rebuilding the software stack around real workflows
10:00 - Customer type three: automating a massive spreadsheet workflow across buildings
11:12 - Why AI should not just be another faster horse
12:14 - The three S model: services, staffing, and software
13:42 - How data ontology and lower cost create real NOI impact
15:35 - The moment customers realize AI licenses alone are not enough
18:22 - Why software should start with data infrastructure, not UI
21:07 - Pulling data from source documents instead of cleaning it later
22:04 - Inverting the usual software model by starting with goals and data
23:07 - Why more AI-powered point solutions can worsen the problem
24:37 - The real cost of software sprawl and death by a hundred cuts
25:55 - What skills will matter most in the next two to four years
26:24 - Junior talent, faster learning, and deeper industry understanding
28:49 - Why soft skills and relationship-building still matter in real estate
30:26 - How automation could improve tenant relationships and retention
31:18 - Why OpEx pressure makes this shift especially urgent now
32:33 - Final takeaways on not feeling trapped by the tech stack
35:05 - Why companies that move now may become the long-term winners
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This conversation between host, Shelley Robinson, and Ray Hespen https://www.linkedin.com/in/rayhespen/ of Property Meld, held at Podcast Palooza, hits straight to the heart of how maintenance isn’t just a chore — it’s the secret weapon that can transform property management through technology, emphasizing the importance of maintenance, data-driven decisions, and the human element in service delivery.
Ray shares a raw, real story about turning a frustrating problem into a groundbreaking opportunity.
In this episode:
- How a bad maintenance experience sparked a billion-dollar idea
- The surprising parallels between manufacturing and property management
- Why fostering human connections is crucial in an increasingly automated industry
- Practical tips for measuring and improving resident satisfaction through SLAs
- The overlooked revenue potential of a well-run maintenance operation
- The future of maintenance roles — human touch vs. automation
- The importance of empathy and connection in high-value service delivery
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Property Meld and Its Mission
02:39 Identifying the Problem in Property Management
05:02 The Human Element in Property Management
06:57 Customer Loyalty and Real-World Impact
08:35 The Importance of Maintenance in Renewals
10:20 Measuring Maintenance Performance
11:46 The Role of Technology in Maintenance
14:31 The Future of Maintenance Careers
Property Meld is the smartest maintenance solution in your property management toolbox, designed for property managers and their teams to kick maintenance in the nuts and bolts.
Learn more about how Property Meld improves resident renewal rates, increases technician efficiency, lowers maintenance costs, and increases repair speeds at https://propertymeld.com/.
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Brandon Peterson https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-peterson-6ab6b997/ with Quext joined host, Shelley Robinson https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleylrobinson/, for an in-person conversation at Podcast Palooza. They dove in to talk about multifamily pain points and how Quext, a unified platform that combines leasing, access, smart devices, and connectivity in one system — is solving them.
The conversation went past the product to partnerships and how culture drives innovation and loyalty. Brandon highlighted l that industry breakthroughs come from asking the right questions, building trust beyond relationships, and embracing feedback as a gift that sparks continuous improvement.
In this episode:
- How three founders merged their visions to solve real industry pain points
- The power of vulnerability and leadership grounded in purpose
- Why unlearning past assumptions unlocks industry-transforming innovations
- The importance of deep relationships built on trust in PropTech sales
- A heartfelt story illustrating the true impact of seamless access technology
- Strategic advice for investors and operators: Why patience and questions matter
Chapters
00:00 The Birth of Quext: Solving Industry Pain Points
03:42 The North Star Challenge: Inspiring Employee Engagement
07:15 Client Moments: Opening Doors to New Opportunities
10:14 Feedback Culture: Embracing Constructive Criticism
12:51 Transforming Operations: The Before and After of Technology Adoption
Quext combines leasing, access, smart devices, and connectivity in one system — so property teams stop juggling vendors and residents get a community that actually feels modern.
Unify your access to create a seamless, efficient, and resident-centered experience—saving time, boosting customer satisfaction, and future-proofing your property.
Learn more about Quext: https://onequext.com/
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Brace yourself for an inspiring dive into how AI and bold leadership are revolutionizing the multifamily industry. Mike Schmitt https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-schmitt-nc/ of Butler Plus shares a compelling story of technology, community impact, and the power of listening — revealing what’s really possible when passion meets innovation.
In this episode:
- The evolution of Butler Plus from Trash Butler to a comprehensive multifamily service provider
- How a proprietary built-from-scratch platform leverages AI for operational excellence
- The human side of services and why people remain the differentiator even in an AI-driven world
- Practical AI applications: real ROI, quality control, improving employee experience
- Navigating industry challenges: labor shortages, customer relationships, industry cycles
- The underrated undercurrent of rapid technological change and accessibility
- The importance of listening, culture, and building a people-focused organization
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Butler Plus and Its Evolution
03:34 Understanding the Unique Challenges of Doorstep Trash Collection
06:29 The Human Element in Service Industries
09:01 Leveraging AI for Operational Efficiency
11:42 Expanding Services Beyond Trash Collection
14:40 Navigating Customer Relationships and Industry Challenges
17:01 The Future of Multifamily Services and Labor Dynamics
19:56 Attracting and Retaining Talent in a Changing Landscape
22:54 Skills for the Future in the Age of AI
25:24 Technology Trends: What’s Overhyped and What’s Underrated
28:07 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways
Butler Plus began as a doorstep trash and recycling service for multifamily communities. Today, the company is trusted by more than 1,000 multifamily communities nationwide to seamlessly manage a full suite of services. From waste and sustainability solutions to porter and pressure washing services, Butler Plus makes life easier, healthier, and cleaner for both property managers and residents alike.
Demonstrating 99.7% service reliability, Butler Plus is a proven, indispensable partner responsible for managing operations, personalizing services, and integrating technology to enhance the living experience for the communities they serve.
Learn more about Butler Plus: https://www.trashbutler.com/
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Andy Medley https://www.linkedin.com/in/andymedley/, CEO & Co-Founder of PERQ https://www.linkedin.com/company/perq/, joins Shelley Robinson, host of PropTech Pulse, to share his inspiring entrepreneurial journey, innovative insights into multifamily marketing, and what the future holds for data-driven strategies in multifamily.
If you're eager to understand how technology can revolutionize leasing and asset management, this is your must-listen.
This Episode is brought to you by PERQ.
PERQ is an AI-powered digital marketing platform that captures and converts high-intent website traffic, Drives 2–3X more qualified leads using proprietary AI. PERQ optimizes existing marketing spend by feeding real-time visitor data back into paid search campaigns and Integrates with your current website, CRM, and chat tools as well as reduces manual effort and advertising costs while delivering clearer ROI.
To learn more about PERQ: https://bit.ly/4bQrHqP
Key Topics:
- Andy's journey from family restaurants to becoming a tech leader in multifamily marketing
- The power of data and AI to eliminate guesswork in leasing
- Why conversion-focused websites are a game-changer
- How traditional industries are transitioning into digital and AI landscapes
- The crucial role of trustworthy data in marketing decisions
- Emerging trends: AI, GEO targeting, and the real impact on multifamily
- Practical lessons on adapting to technological disruption
- Skills and mindset for success in an age of AI and rapid change
Chapters
00:00 Founder's Journey: From Restaurants to Real Estate
04:46 The Evolution of PERQ: Marketing in Multifamily
08:50 Client Success Stories: The Impact of Effective Marketing
10:48 Understanding the Multifamily Market: Challenges and Opportunities
14:55 The Role of Data and AI in Marketing
18:48 Future Trends in Multifamily Marketing
23:03 Skills for Success in the Age of AI
26:48 Advice for the Next Generation of Marketers
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Brendan Wallace https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendanfitzgeraldwallace/ of Fifth Wall https://www.linkedin.com/company/fifth-wall-ventures/ shares insights on how technology is transforming the real estate industry, the challenges and opportunities in PropTech, and the future of multifamily and built world innovation.
Chapters
00:00 Brendan Wallace's Journey into PropTech
03:53 Navigating the Challenges of PropTech Innovation
07:52 Success Stories in PropTech
12:06 Identifying Opportunities in PropTech
14:28 The Future of Multifamily and Built World
17:19 Reimagining Workforce in Real Estate
21:33 The Evolving Profile of PropTech Founders
24:22 Advice for Aspiring PropTech Entrepreneurs
25:50 Overhyped Trends in PropTech
27:27 Final Thoughts and Recommended Reading
Founded by Brendan Wallace, Fifth Wall is the largest investment firm focused on technology for the built environment. The Firm is driving the growth of nearly 170 companies, backing category-defining PropTech leaders such as Opendoor, Procore, Blend, Hippo, and Bilt Rewards. It's supported by nearly 115 of the world's largest real estate owner-operators including CBRE, Hilton, Hines, Marriott, Public Storage, Related, and Starwood. Founded and headquartered in Los Angeles, Fifth Wall's other offices include New York City, San Francisco, and London.
Visit https://www.fifthwall.com/
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#FifthWall #PropTechPulse #Multifamily #PropTech #ConTech #MultifamilyInvestment

In this episode, Nicolas Lares https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolas-lares-77a328169/ from Insur3Tech https://www.linkedin.com/company/insur3tech/ shares his journey from tech to insurance innovation, revealing how alternative risk models and industry insights are transforming renter insurance. Discover how his solutions help multifamily portfolios unlock hidden margins, improve risk management, and adapt to industry challenges.
Insur3Tech is an insurance platform that allows Property Managers and Owner-Operators in the Multifamily industry to participate in the underwriting profits of their renters insurance policies. We make this possible by creating a custom insurance company that Insur3Tech fully manages and operates for their residents — but our customers own entirely.
Learn more at https://bit.ly/4bPEYhs
Chapters
00:00 The Journey Begins: From Athlete to InsurTech Innovator
05:53 Revolutionizing Insurance: A New Approach to Risk Management
10:50 Client-Centric Solutions: Real Stories of Impact
15:41 Understanding the Insurance Landscape: Education and Awareness
20:43 The Future of Property Management: Trends and Innovations
25:44 The Human Element: Balancing Technology and Personal Touch
30:49 Exciting Announcements: Expanding InsurTech's Reach
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