How to Choose the Right Tech Stack for Your Portfolio

---

Match your tech to your portfolio's strategy — not the other way around.

Choosing the right tech stack can feel like trying to predict the future of your portfolio. With new platforms promising everything from automated lease-ups to AI-driven asset optimization, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But the truth is, your property tech stack should do one thing above all: support your business strategy. Here’s how to narrow the field and select the right solutions for your portfolio’s size, structure, and long-term goals. 

1. Define the Portfolio’s Operational Priorities

Start by clarifying your portfolio’s main objectives. Are you focused on rapid growth? Operational efficiency? Tenant satisfaction? Sustainability? Your tech stack should amplify your top priorities—not distract from them.

“Tech is not the strategy. It’s the tool that helps you execute the strategy faster and more effectively,” says Dawn Dardzinski, founder of D2D Consulting.

2. Right-Size the Platform

For small portfolios or newer owners, flexibility and cost-efficiency are key. Larger portfolios, particularly those with mixed asset classes, may need platforms that integrate accounting, leasing, facilities management, and investor reporting in one place.

• Small portfolios: Consider modular platforms that let you add functionality over time.
• Mid-sized portfolios: Look for systems with strong integration capabilities and open APIs.
• Large, complex portfolios: You may benefit from an enterprise-level system with custom workflows and role-based access.

3. Don’t Overlook Integration and Support

Even the most powerful system can fall short if it doesn't connect to your other tools. Make sure your stack allows for integrations with your accounting software, CRM, IoT devices, or energy monitoring tools.Also consider the onboarding experience and user support. A system is only as good as its adoption rate.

4. Evaluate the Hidden Costs

Beyond licensing fees, consider:

• Implementation costs
• Training time
• Maintenance and upgrades
• Cost of switching platforms later

5. Make Tech Part of the Org Chart

Assign ownership. Whether it’s a dedicated system administrator, a tech-savvy operations lead, or an outsourced specialist, make sure someone is responsible for maintaining the tech stack and keeping it aligned with the business.

The bottom line is a tech stack that scales with you. The right platform should work for you now and evolve with your business. Whether you're managing 200 units or 20,000, tech should simplify — not complicate — your workday. D2D can help evaluate your current systems, benchmark alternatives, and chart a course that grows with your portfolio.