Introduction

Technology advancement plays an important role in society today. And it has continually impacted our daily lives, from how we interact with each other to how we access information and learning resources, how we carry out activities, what influences our actions, and so on. These advancements are now evident in the housing industry, with technology changing the old housing models we used to know into new ventures such as home automation, robotics, the internet of things, and so on. The dwindling economy has made most people unable to afford or move into newly built modern houses. On the other hand, tech firms keep innovating new ideas and have easily adapted to the changing times despite the disruptions because technology has continued to become more ingrained in our daily lives. In the housing sector, technology is playing a significant role in transforming services and the user experience.

Digital Inventory / Contract

Inventory and legal contracts are some of the most important documents in the rental property business. Usually, they are important for check-ins and check-outs and for successfully claiming back deposits. With technological advancements, tenants and owners now have access to contract management software that helps with the check-in and check-out processes, thereby improving efficiency in housing and contract lifecycle management.

Online Platforms & Internet of Things

Additionally, a prospective tenant can now check prices online to ascertain if they can afford the property. Through various property websites that are free to access online, a tenant is able to view diverse housing options and prices and even easily access customer service in real time. The affordability icon on websites such as Thames Valley Housing helps sort out numerous customers' applications. Such a web platform helps potential customers search for and filter information according to their needs or desires and is able to help them make decisions about affordability in line with their budget and plans. This also promotes networking and the building of positive relationships between tenants and property owners.

Repair and Maintenance

Repair and property maintenance is another sector that has been greatly improved through the use of digital technology platforms. Property owners and occupiers are able to plan, source, and book repairs or renovation projects. For instance, Notting Hill Genesis had issues with repairs in 2019, which led to customer satisfaction falling to 60%. By 2020, the company established a platform that enables customers to log their repair issues and get help within the shortest time possible. Correspondingly, the website has a list of multiple vetted repair companies from which one can choose. This has greatly improved repair and maintenance services where available. And housing associations like Peabody have helped small-scale repairers earn a living while promoting better housing solutions. In return, this will enable tenants and owners to have a better experience at their properties.

Conclusion

Conclusively, the digitalization era of the housing sector around the world has greatly improved customer satisfaction through different available services such as property value estimations, house automations, the internet of things, repair and maintenance, building information modelling, tenants’ customer services, and so on. Tenants can now learn about a new house from the comfort of their homes, unlike in early 2000, when people had to walk and browse new houses. The recent introduction of technology into the housing sector has created a win-win situation for property owners and tenants. The current pace of technology adoption in the housing industry and associations guarantees streamlined service delivery and improved housing systems in the next five years and beyond.

As an information and communication technology (ICT) company, Acilect Ltd. is very much a part of this online revolution. We have a custom solution that explores the use of digital technology to support access to and management of properties with a focus on a quality user experience. We aim to make property management a pain-free experience, and it is not just our technological expertise that sets us apart; our attention to details and continuous review of social demands greatly inform our solution approach. Get in touch with us to experience how our digital product supports your property and facility operations.