RentMouse vs Rentec Direct
Rentec Direct is a powerful option for property managers, but starts at $45/month. RentMouse offers your first unit free and modern features at lower cost.
Pricing Comparison
See the cost difference at various portfolio sizes
RentMouse
Rentec Direct
Save $540/year with 1-5 units
RentMouse is significantly cheaper for small landlords
Feature Comparison
| Feature | RentMouse | Rentec Direct |
|---|---|---|
| Free Tier | First unit free forever | No free tier |
| Starting Price | $0 (first unit) | $45/month minimum |
| 10 Units Price | $45/month | $45/month |
| ACH Payment Fee | 0.8% (max $5) | Varies by processor |
| Card Payment Fee | 2.9% + $0.30 | Varies by processor |
| Rent Collection | ACH & card | ACH, card, cash |
| Tenant Screening | Credit, criminal, eviction | Credit, criminal, eviction |
| E-Signatures | Unlimited included | Included |
| Accounting | Built-in financials | Full trust accounting |
| Owner Portal | Available | Advanced portal |
| Mobile App | iOS & Android | iOS & Android |
| Canada Support | Full US & Canada | US only |
| Modern UI | Modern, intuitive | Traditional interface |
| AI Assistance | Built-in AI chat | Not available |
What is Rentec Direct?
Rentec Direct is a veteran property management platform founded in 2007, designed for both independent landlords and professional property managers. The platform offers comprehensive features including full trust accounting, owner portals, and advanced reporting capabilities.
Rentec Direct's pricing starts at $45/month for up to 10 units (Rentec Pro), with their PM version starting at $55/month for property managers who need trust accounting. Unlike newer platforms, Rentec requires this minimum regardless of your portfolio size.
While Rentec Direct offers powerful features, its traditional interface and pricing structure make it less suitable for small landlords with just a few properties who want modern, affordable software.
What is RentMouse?
RentMouse is a modern property management platform built for independent landlords who want professional features without enterprise complexity or pricing. The platform focuses on simplicity, affordability, and a modern user experience.
Your first unit is free forever with RentMouse, and additional units are $5/month each. Unlike Rentec's $45/month minimum, RentMouse lets you pay only for what you use. The platform includes AI-powered assistance to help with common landlord tasks and questions.
RentMouse also supports Canadian landlords with provincial compliance — something Rentec Direct doesn't offer as a US-only platform.
Why Landlords Choose RentMouse
No Minimum Fee
Start free with your first unit. Rentec Direct requires $45/month minimum even for a single property — that's $540/year before you manage anything.
Modern Experience
Clean, intuitive interface designed for 2024. Rentec Direct's interface reflects its 2007 origins with a steeper learning curve.
US & Canada Support
Manage properties in both countries with localized compliance. Rentec Direct is limited to the United States.
Faster Onboarding
Get started in 10 minutes with guided setup. No complex configuration or training required.
AI-Powered Help
Built-in AI assistant helps answer questions, draft notices, and troubleshoot issues instantly.
Pay As You Grow
Per-unit pricing means you only pay for properties you're actually managing. Scale up or down freely.
When Rentec Direct Might Be Better
Rentec Direct has strengths in specific areas. It might be better if:
- Professional property management: You manage properties for owners and need trust accounting
- Complex accounting needs: Full double-entry accounting with CAM reconciliation and owner statements
- Established workflows: You're already trained on Rentec's system and comfortable with the interface
- 25+ units: At larger scale, Rentec's flat-rate pricing becomes more competitive
Ready to Save with RentMouse?
Start free today. No credit card required. No $45 minimum.