Note: For latest information on Entrata feature set and capabilities please contact Entrata.
Choosing the right property management software in 2025 can make or break your ability to scale efficiently. While enterprise solutions like Entrata offer a robust ecosystem for large multifamily operators and student housing providers, SimplifyEm has emerged as a powerhouse designed specifically for small and mid-sized property managers—with features that rival the big players, minus the complexity.
In this article, we compare SimplifyEm and Entrata side-by-side across core areas like tenant management, CRM, accounting, online payments, and security, helping you decide which platform aligns best with your business.
Quick Comparison: SimplifyEm vs Entrata (2025)
Why SimplifyEm Works for Growing Property Managers
Although SimplifyEm is known for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, it’s not a lightweight solution. It delivers enterprise-grade capabilities such as full GL accounting, CRM, online payments, and automated communications—but with a user-friendly interface tailored to small and mid-sized teams.
Unlike Entrata, which often requires dedicated onboarding teams, technical admins, and custom development for setup, SimplifyEm provides:
- Minimal learning curve
- No IT staff required
- Quick setup in hours, not weeks
- Instant access to features with no hidden layers
Whether you’re managing 20 or 500+ units, SimplifyEm scales with you—without forcing you to navigate through bloated menus or enterprise-only workflows.
Tenant Management: Powerful and Intuitive Entrata Vs SimplifyEm
SimplifyEm’s tenant management tools give you a complete lease lifecycle toolkit—from lease tracking and automated rent reminders to maintenance coordination and document storage.
Entrata is designed for large portfolios with complex workflows, but for smaller operators, it can be overly technical and require formal training to use effectively.
With SimplifyEm, you can:
- Send automated reminders
- Attach leases, inspections, and other tenant docs
- Track rent, late fees, and delinquencies at a glance
Learn more about SimplifyEm’s tenant features.
CRM and Communication Hub: Enterprise Automation, Simplified Entrata vs SimplifyEm
SimplifyEm’s built-in CRM was developed to help property managers:
- Track prospects and leads
- Automate communication with tenants and owners
- Send bulk messages through SMS, email, or both
- Keep all conversations centralized with the Communication Hub
Entrata does offer a CRM, but it’s deeply embedded within its enterprise platform, requiring system configuration and time-consuming setup. SimplifyEm, by contrast, lets you start nurturing relationships from day one, using automation that’s intuitive, not intimidating.
Accounting Functionality: Full GL Power Without the Complexity Entrata vs SimplifyEm
SimplifyEm’s accounting suite offers:
- General Ledger (GL) accounting
- Trust accounting with bank reconciliation
- 1099 generation, owner statements, and tenant ledgers
- Seamless QuickBooks integration
While Entrata’s accounting system is powerful, it caters more toward enterprise accounting teams with steep onboarding curves. SimplifyEm puts accounting power directly in the hands of owners and managers—no CPA needed to get started.
Online Payments: Simple, Fast, and Flexible Entrata vs. SimplifyEm
Rent collection is smoother with SimplifyEm:
- Tenants can pay via credit card or ACH
- No separate merchant account setup needed
- Auto-pay and recurring payments supported
- Payments sync directly to ledgers
Entrata supports robust payment workflows, but the setup is longer and more technical. SimplifyEm enables you to start collecting online rent in minutes—even if you’re just getting started.
Explore how SimplifyEm simplifies rent collection.
Security and Compliance: Enterprise Standards Made Accessible Entrata vs SimplifyEm
Security and compliance aren’t reserved for large corporations. SimplifyEm offers:
- 256-bit SSL encryption
- PCI-compliant payment infrastructure
- U.S.-based secure data centers
- User role controls for staff and managers
- Audit logs for transparent tracking
While Entrata also provides enterprise-grade security, it often requires IT involvement to configure access or customize data policies. SimplifyEm ensures you’re secure by default—without needing a tech team.
Read more about how SimplifyEm protects your data
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Entrata and SimplifyEm Comparison
- Is Entrata good for small property managers?
Entrata is designed primarily for large-scale property managers, student housing providers, and enterprise-level portfolios. While powerful, it may be too complex and costly for small or mid-sized property managers without dedicated IT resources.
- Does SimplifyEm offer features similar to enterprise software like Entrata?
Yes, SimplifyEm provides enterprise-level functionality—such as full GL accounting, CRM, trust accounting, and secure online payments—but in a simplified and more accessible format tailored to small and mid-sized property managers.
- What makes SimplifyEm easier to use than Entrata?
SimplifyEm is built with simplicity in mind. There’s no need for custom onboarding or complex setups. You can start using features like accounting, CRM, and online rent collection right away, without specialized training or a dedicated tech team.
- Can I try SimplifyEm before subscribing?
Yes, SimplifyEm offers a free trial so you can test all features before committing. Entrata, on the other hand, typically requires a demo with a sales team and does not offer a public free trial.
- Is there a big pricing difference between Entrata and SimplifyEm?
Absolutely. SimplifyEm starts at under $1/unit, with transparent pricing listed publicly. Entrata requires a custom quote, which can vary significantly based on portfolio size, making it less predictable for smaller property managers.
- Does SimplifyEm handle both ACH and credit card rent payments?
Yes, SimplifyEm supports both ACH and credit card payments and even allows recurring payments without needing a separate merchant account. It’s quick to set up and easy for tenants to use.
- Can I switch from Entrata to SimplifyEm easily?
Yes. SimplifyEm offers customer support and data migration assistance to help property managers transition from other platforms like Entrata with minimal disruption.
Sources
U.S. Small Business Administration – Guide on Managing Rental Properties
