New data from the SatisFacts Online Renter Study shows ratings and reviews sites as a Top 3 source used by renters in researching apartments. Concurrently, it shows ratings and reviews as the #1 most trusted source when deciding whether or not to rent with an apartment community. In fact, over 73% of renters cited it as their most trusted source, beating referrals from friends, family and co-workers by 18%.
ApartmentRatings is the only renter-facing ratings and reviews site in the multifamily space. It is also the only review site with a built-in verified review program that automates reviews directly from verified renter feedback to ensure review transparency. Over 72% of renters say the most helpful element of an online review is that it’s from a verified resident who lives/has lived at the community. With authenticity playing a crucial role in how prospective renters perceive a community, the verified review program has helped both renters and operators alike, to ensure renters feel a sense of trust in the community(ies) they are researching on ApartmentRatings.
The leadership team at Bigos Management understands the vital role that an authentic online reputation plays in a prospective renter’s journey and the impact that review management and response can have on a renter’s decision to contact, and ultimately sign a lease with, an apartment community.
When Bigos Management implemented our verified review program into their reputation strategy, their epIQ Index saw a 34 point increase with a 775% increase in review volume in just 60 days. Six months post-implementation, their epIQ Index saw an 81% improvement, placing them at #51 in their portfolio size out of 300+ companies nationwide. Additionally, their review volume surged by 1,875%. As of January 2024 and as part of our annual awards season, Bigos was recognized as an epIQ Top 100 Management Company. And as of today, their communities’ renter ratings and review volume continue to improve month over month with 40% of Bigos communities currently ranking as the #1 community in their city.
“VRP was a huge success. Implementing it fit seamlessly into our current reputation management strategy. There was little to no change in workflow for our site teams, allowing us to very quickly integrate VRP into our practices.”
~Tanya Artz, Director of Marketing
See real results from Bigos Management’s implementation of VRP into their reputation management strategy and the effect the Verified Resident Program (VRP) has on boosting review generation and online reputation.