How is rental tech changing the way we rent? Share your experience
Author
Date 31 March 2025
Are you a renter in Australia with experience using digital rental platforms? A new research project is looking for participants to share their experiences with ‘RentTech’ and its impact on housing justice.
PhD researcher Samantha Floreani from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Automated Decision-Making and Society at Monash University is conducting a study on the growing influence of digital technologies in the residential real estate sector.
These technologies—sometimes referred to as ‘RentTech’—include online rental application platforms (such as 2Apply, Sorted, Ignite, and Snug), property management apps (Kolmeo, Cubbi, ConsoleTenant), and rent payment platforms (Rental Rewards, Ailo, SimpleRent), among others. The research aims to explore how these technologies affect renters’ experiences and housing justice in Australia.
Samantha says, “Against the backdrop of the ongoing housing crisis, renters are increasingly interacting with digital technologies at every stage of their housing experience.
“These tools come with promises of increased convenience, efficiency, and profit for real estate agents and landlords—but what do they mean for renters? Through this study, I aim to find out.”
Participants will take part in a one-on-one interview, discussing their interactions with RentTech and demonstrating an app, website, or platform they have used. The interview, which lasts approximately 60 minutes, can be conducted online via Zoom or in person at a mutually convenient location.
To participate, you should have some experience with, or opinion on, RentTech and also experience with Australia’s private rental market, though you do not need to have a current tenancy agreement.
All interviews will be recorded, transcribed, and anonymized to protect confidentiality.
Your insights will contribute to research that aims to center renters’ voices in discussions about digital real estate technology. Findings from the study will help inform advocacy and policy making efforts related to renters’ rights and housing justice.
For more information visit The Machine-Readable Renter website.
