When renters search for an apartment, they’re no longer just typing in keywords and applying filters. AI-powered search for multifamily is transforming what the rental search process looks like.
In this conversational approach to search, renters are asking questions and getting personalized answers.
Less than 5 percent of renters report that they seek out generative AI tools like ChatGPT to conduct their rental search, according to a survey conducted by Apartments.com in May, but AI-powered tools are becoming increasingly integrated into traditional rental search platforms. As a result, AI-powered search is rapidly expanding across the industry.
For example, Apartments.com recently launched Apartments.com Ai, a conversational search experience that lets renters use natural language in a back-and-forth dialog to find apartments that meet their needs. The functionality is available to every renter in every search.
How conversational apartment search works
Instead of applying individual filters, renters can describe their needs in a sentence or two, the same way they might speak to a friend or family member.
For example, a renter using Apartments.com Ai might say, “I’m looking for a one-bedroom apartment under $2,000 a month in Atlanta that allows pets and has a swimming pool.”
Apartments.com Ai then identifies matching listings and answers the renter’s follow-up questions.
Follow-up questions might include narrowing the search to communities with a fitness center, identifying listings with ongoing rent specials, or finding out what pet policies or fees apply. It might also involve weighing two different options and understanding how they compare.
How AI-powered search helps multifamily owners and operators
In AI-powered search, renters can ask detailed questions and compare options through a conversation. This guided approach helps renters fully understand the features of individual units and properties and how they compare to other available options.
By the time prospects submit a lead, they often have a deeper understanding of the available unit and community, thanks to the guidance provided by the AI search tool.
In fact, recent data confirms that renters who use AI-powered search are more likely to submit a lead than those using traditional search methods. An analysis by Apartments.com found that AI-powered search on the rental listing site showed a 56 percent higher traffic-to-lead conversion than traditional search queries.
What to do to optimize your listing for AI-driven search
As search behavior becomes increasingly conversational, multifamily owners and operators should refresh their listings with an eye to optimizing for AI-powered search.
AI relies on accurate property data — from pricing and availability to unit-specific descriptions and photos —to fully answer renters’ questions.
Up-to-date descriptions, comprehensive amenity details, current and complete pricing and fees, accurate policies and comprehensive media can help AI show renters communities that might fit their needs.
The more information available within a listing, the more effectively AI-powered tools can answer renters’ questions and surface relevant communities.
To optimize rental listings for AI-powered search, multifamily owners and operators should follow these best practices:
- Include comprehensive, unit-specific photos, floor plans and 3D tours
- Keep pricing and availability details up to date across all sources
- Refresh unit and community descriptions to accurately represent the resident experience
- Encourage residents to post reviews
- Enable tour scheduling and applications from the property listing
Conversational search represents a growing shift toward a more personalized and interactive search experience.
As AI plays a growing role in how renters discover and explore apartments, the properties that stand out will be the ones with accurate, detailed information that helps answer renters’ questions.
