Avail Reviews

I manage 34 rental properties, mostly trendy apartments in revamped historic buildings. I started using Avail since many of my tenants prefer electronic rent payments over checks. Sadly, the platform feels a bit clunky and seems like it’s still being developed. It’s nothing like the smooth experience you get with Amazon. I recently spent two frustrating days trying to update my tax info. I think a big part of the issue was how it interacts with the IRS system. Still, I’m hopeful that I’ll get the hang of it eventually and that Avail will improve their platform for a smoother experience.

To start off, I attempted to create my account using a Google number since I spend more time abroad than in the States. The system wouldn’t allow it. I reached out to customer support, but they were no help whatsoever. They simply informed me that I had to provide a cell phone number or a landline to register; otherwise, I was out of luck. Eventually, I found a number I could use, signed up, and took the time to post an ad for my property. Right after that, my account got flagged and suspended without any valid reason. I didn’t break any rules. They just want more personal information from me, like a government-issued ID and a bunch of other documents. I ended up wasting a good chunk of my afternoon because of this company.

I traveled from Washington DC to North Carolina to secure a rental, paying a deposit and application fee while being out of state. Turns out, it was a total scam. Now, I'm stuck, pregnant, with no gas to get back home, no food, and freezing in my car. I can't get my money back, and I don't have any family to help. Seriously, don’t use this site! I’m four months along and feeling desperate. I pray I don’t lose my baby since I’m at high risk. The scammer even tried to convince me to work with him, claiming he had other properties available. This situation is just not safe for anyone.

You can't report issues, and it's strange that the site isn't using HTTPS. Just a heads up, this app feels pretty insecure, so watch out when using it.

Heads up - if you're a newcomer, the way this platform operates is that they first showcase your listing but then slap a big red 'fraudulent' label on it right away. At that moment, they have zero evidence or understanding that the listing is indeed fraudulent and haven't allowed any time for the verification process to take place. I get that verification is important, but shouldn't a decent business hold off on publishing a listing until it's verified instead of broadcasting to everyone that the listing (and the person behind it) is fraudulent? Seriously, who thinks this is a smart way to do verification?

They took $15 from my tenant since her bank account number was one digit short. I requested a refund for her, but they turned me down. My suggestion? Check out other places. There are plenty of alternatives that are way better. Zillow and others...

My time using Avail has been fantastic. As someone new to being a landlord, this platform has been super useful. For just $5 a month, I’ve managed to find tenants, handle their applications, and take care of all the required paperwork (like credit checks, background checks, and criminal history), set up a custom lease, and keep up with rent collection and maintenance requests. I’m really pleased with how everything turned out. Regarding the banking login info that some folks have mentioned, I decided to open a brand new account that’s separate from my usual bank accounts, with a different password, and used that for my monthly rent processing. I linked the accounts through my bank, so I can move money back and forth as needed without putting my main account at risk. I highly recommend this service!

A lot of sites are always asking for my routing and check numbers to process bank payments. I trust certain sites, like those for mortgage bills. But Avail REALLY WANTED MY BANK LOGIN AND PASSWORD. No way, man!!!

So, my choice is to use a credit card, which comes with a hefty 3.5% fee. Just think about that added to your rent! That’s an extra $35 for every $1000 you pay!!!

This app is terrible; don’t let your tenants deal with this awful app.