Digital signatures are becoming increasingly popular among the rental real estate industry. Landlords and tenants can sign lease agreements and other rental documents online using this software, which offers convenience and time efficiency. Digital signatures can be as legally binding as traditional ink signatures, which is further fueling their popularity among landlords and tenants. With digital signature softwares for rental properties, the signing process can also now be done remotely, eliminating the need for in-person meetings and paper contracts.
Digital Signature Software for Rental Properties List
From investors, to leasing agents, all participants in the rental real estate process use digital signature software as a core tool to get important signatures for rental property matters. Below we take a look at some of the most commonly used choices in digital signature softwares:
What is a Digital Signature?
Digital signatures (also called e-signatures) are a technology that allows for the electronic signing of documents, such as rental agreements and contracts. Digital signature software typically uses encryption technology to ensure the authenticity and integrity of the signed document, making it a secure and legally binding way to sign rental agreements. When used within the application of rental real estate, digital signatures allow landlords and tenants to sign documents securely and conveniently from their computer or mobile device, without the need for paper-based contracts.
Are Digital (Electronic) Signatures Legally Acceptable for Lease Agreements?
Yes, digital (electronic) signatures are legally binding for lease agreements in the United States. The Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce (ESIGN) Act, passed by Congress in 2000, provides that electronic signatures are just as legally binding as ink signatures. The act states that a signature cannot be denied legal effect solely because it is in electronic form. Additionally, the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA) has been adopted by most states and provides a framework for the use of electronic signatures in legal documents, including lease agreements. Be sure to check your specific state and applicable local laws beforehand.
Digital Signature Software and Property Management Software
Many popular property management software solutions have begun integrating digital signatures into their online property management platform. This integration now allows for even greater convenience for landlords and property managers. In these scenarios, rental agreements and other documents can be signed digitally without ever having to leave the property management platform. This further streamlines the management and leasing process and eliminates one additional subscription or third-party login for already busy property management professionals. Below are a few of the property management platforms that have natively integrated or are compatible to be integrated with a third-party digital signature software:
- Appfolio
- Buildium
- Doorloop
