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AppFolio
AppFolio
from Wikipedia

AppFolio, Inc. is an American company founded in 2006 that offers software-as-a-service (SaaS) applications and services to the real estate industry.

Key Information

The company's headquarters is in Goleta, California,[2] in the Santa Barbara area.

History

[edit]

AppFolio was established in 2006 by co-founders Klaus Schauser[3] and Jon Walker.[4][5] Schauser had previously founded Expertcity.[4]

The company's first focus was property management for small to medium businesses[4] and its first product, AppFolio Property Manager, was launched in 2007.[5]

In November 2012, AppFolio acquired MyCase, a "legal practice management software provider."[6]

AppFolio purchased real estate software firm RentLinx in April 2015. This acquisition included rights to the website ShowMeTheRent.com, which increased AppFolio's listing presence.[7][2]

In May 2015, AppFolio announced its Initial public offering,[3] which was unveiled in June.[2]

In September 2018, AppFolio reported acquisition of utility analytics software WegoWise.[8]

In January 2019, AppFolio acquired Dynasty Marketplace, Inc., for $60 million.[9][10]

In September 2020, AppFolio announced the sale of MyCase to private equity firm Apax Funds, for approximately $193 million.[11]

Products

[edit]

AppFolio Property Manager

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A property technology solution with accounting, marketing, leasing, and management functionality for multifamily and single-family, commercial, student housing, community association, and mixed portfolio property managers.[12] In June 2022 the company expanded the platform by launching AppFolio Stack,[13] its integration marketplace.

AppFolio Investment Manager

[edit]

A software platform designed for real estate investment management, with tools for fund management and syndication.[14]

Awards

[edit]

In 2020, AppFolio ranked #1 in Fortune’s list of Fastest-Growing Companies.[15]

The same year, AppFolio was recognized as a Best Place to Work by Glassdoor.[16]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
AppFolio, Inc. is an American technology company specializing in cloud-based software solutions for the real estate industry, providing tools that streamline operations such as leasing, , , and tenant communications. Founded in 2006 and headquartered in , AppFolio has grown to serve over 21,000 customers who manage more than 9.1 million residential and commercial units nationwide (as of September 2025). The company's platform emphasizes innovation, incorporating agentic AI and to reduce busywork, enhance operational efficiency, and support business growth for property managers. Publicly traded on the stock exchange under the ticker symbol since 2015, AppFolio focuses on fostering trusted partnerships and delivering user-friendly technology to connect communities and empower real estate professionals. Its mission revolves around revolutionizing industry software through smart, scalable solutions that prioritize and profitability.

Company Overview

Founding and Mission

AppFolio was founded in 2006 by Klaus Schauser and in . The company started with just the two founders, who aimed to build innovative software solutions tailored to the sector. The initial vision centered on creating cloud-based software to streamline operations for small and medium-sized businesses, overcoming the limitations of traditional desktop-based systems that often hindered scalability and accessibility. Schauser and Walker recognized the need for web-based tools that could simplify complex tasks like tenant management and financial tracking, enabling real estate professionals to operate more efficiently without the constraints of on-premise installations. AppFolio's core mission is to power the future of the real estate industry through an innovative platform and trusted partnerships that connect communities, boost , and drive business growth. This commitment to user-friendly technology emphasizes enhancing scalability and informed decision-making for real estate professionals. From its early focus on , the company evolved to launch products like AppFolio Property Manager in 2007.

Headquarters and Operations

AppFolio, Inc. is headquartered in , at 70 Castilian Drive in Goleta, with additional offices in locations such as Richardson and , and , California, to support its operations across the . The company employs 1,703 team members as of September 2025, having grown from its two founders in 2006, and maintains a remote-friendly culture that includes co-working opportunities in designated Remote Hub Cities to foster collaboration among distributed employees. AppFolio's operations center on delivering cloud-based software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions tailored to the real estate industry, serving more than 20,000 customers that range from small firms to large entities. Core operational areas include to innovate its platforms, to ensure user success, and facilitation of third-party integrations through the AppFolio Stack , which connects users to vetted proptech solutions and services.

History

Early Development and Launch

AppFolio was formed in 2006 as a by a team of entrepreneurs, later converting to a corporation in 2007 to pursue development of cloud-based business management software for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). The company's early efforts centered on identifying underserved vertical markets, with a particular emphasis on , where legacy on-premise systems dominated but failed to meet the needs of smaller operators due to their complexity, high maintenance costs, and lack of scalability. In 2008, AppFolio launched its inaugural product, AppFolio Property Manager, a comprehensive -based platform specifically designed for residential firms managing between 20 and 3,000 units. This solution integrated essential functionalities for accounting, leasing processes, and tenant communications, aiming to streamline operations in a sector previously reliant on fragmented desktop applications. The transition to a model presented initial challenges, including educating the market on the benefits of web-based accessibility over traditional software installations, while navigating net operating losses from heavy investments in product development and infrastructure during the company's limited early . Initial adoption focused on small property management firms seeking intuitive tools to replace cumbersome legacy systems, resulting in steady subscriber growth throughout the late 2000s as users appreciated the platform's ease of implementation and remote access capabilities. A key early milestone was the establishment of a subscription-based , where fees were structured around the number of managed units to ensure predictable recurring income and alignment with customer scale, fostering long-term retention through user-centric design priorities. By the end of the decade, this approach had validated AppFolio's market entry, with expanding customer bases reflecting positive reception among SMBs in the residential sector.

IPO and Expansion

AppFolio announced its in May 2015 by filing a registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on May 18. The IPO was completed on June 26, 2015, with the company offering 7,130,000 shares of Class A at $12 per share, raising approximately $86 million in gross proceeds before discounts and expenses. The shares began trading on the Global Market under the "APPF," marking AppFolio's transition from a private to a publicly traded company. Post-IPO, AppFolio pursued aggressive growth, expanding its customer base into larger markets and establishing a broader national presence across the . In the first quarter of 2015, just prior to the IPO, the company's stood at $15.8 million, reflecting strong momentum from its core software. This growth continued as AppFolio scaled its operations, leveraging the capital raised to enhance product development and sales efforts, which enabled it to serve a wider array of firms nationwide. Strategic acquisitions further supported this expansion by integrating complementary technologies and services. During the late 2010s, AppFolio entered the commercial real estate segment, extending its cloud-based platform to handle commercial properties alongside residential ones, thereby diversifying its market reach. The company also began considering international expansion as a key component of its long-term growth strategy, aiming to build a worldwide customer base while primarily focusing on domestic operations. AppFolio's performance post-IPO underscored its sustained growth, rising from an initial of $12 per share to approximately $231 as of November 2025, which propelled the company's to about $8.6 billion. This milestone highlighted the market's confidence in AppFolio's ability to innovate and capture share in the real estate software sector.

Key Acquisitions

AppFolio entered the legal practice management software market in 2012 through its acquisition of MyCase Inc., a San Diego-based provider of cloud-based solutions for firms. This move allowed AppFolio to diversify beyond into adjacent sectors. However, AppFolio sold MyCase in 2020 to funds advised by for $193 million, refocusing on its core offerings. In 2015, AppFolio acquired RentLinx, a San Diego-based online rental listing syndication platform, for $4 million. RentLinx specialized in distributing property listings to multiple websites, enhancing vacancy marketing capabilities for property managers. The integration enabled AppFolio customers to access advanced advertising tools directly within the platform, improving efficiency. AppFolio expanded its analytics offerings in 2018 by acquiring WegoWise, a Boston-based utility data automation company backed by BlueHub Capital. The acquisition, terms of which were undisclosed, focused on WegoWise's platform for tracking and analyzing energy usage in multifamily properties. This bolstered AppFolio's ability to offer utility management services, helping property owners optimize costs and . However, AppFolio sold WegoWise to Measurabl in September 2022. To advance its artificial intelligence capabilities, AppFolio completed the $60 million acquisition of Dynasty Marketplace Inc. in January 2019. Dynasty, a Los Angeles-based AI provider for residential , developed technologies for tasks like leasing assistance. The deal brought Dynasty's engineering team to AppFolio, facilitating the launch of AI-driven features such as the Lisa Leasing Assistant. In October 2024, AppFolio acquired LiveEasy, a concierge platform for moving and home services (operating as Move EZ, Inc.), for approximately $80 million. This acquisition supports the launch of FolioSpace, an AI-powered resident experience platform, further enhancing offerings. These acquisitions strategically enhanced AppFolio's ecosystem by incorporating specialized tools for , , and AI without duplicating internal development efforts. Each integration complemented core products like AppFolio Property Manager, driving post-IPO expansion in service depth and market reach.

Products and Services

AppFolio Property Manager

AppFolio Property Manager is a cloud-based software platform developed to automate and centralize tasks for real estate professionals. As the company's core offering since its launch in 2007, it provides an all-in-one solution for handling day-to-day operations across residential and commercial portfolios. The platform emphasizes ease of use through its intuitive interface, enabling users to access essential tools without needing multiple disparate systems. Key features include robust accounting tools for managing financials, such as automated , budgeting, and customizable reporting to ensure compliance and transparency. Online rent payments allow tenants to pay via ACH, , or other methods directly through the portal, with built-in reminders to minimize delinquencies. Maintenance tracking is facilitated by a system that assigns tasks, tracks progress, and communicates with vendors in real time. Tenant screening integrates , criminal, and checks to streamline applicant evaluation. Marketing syndication pushes property listings to major sites like and Apartments.com, while tools like custom websites and 3D virtual tours enhance visibility and leasing speed. The software primarily targets small to mid-sized firms overseeing portfolios of 20 to 3,000 units but also serves larger operations through plans like Property Manager Max, introduced in , making it suitable for independent operators, growing businesses, and complex large-scale management in both residential and commercial sectors. These users benefit from reduced administrative burdens, as the integrated consolidates operations and routine processes, allowing teams to focus on growth and resident satisfaction rather than paperwork. For instance, significantly reduces rent collection time through seamless portals and notifications, and can reduce late payments by up to 50%. Since its inception, AppFolio Property Manager has evolved to include mobile apps for and Android, enabling field inspections, lease signings, and updates on the go. Leasing workflows have been automated with features like applications, e-signatures, and self-guided tours, introduced progressively to adapt to market demands. In , enhancements included automated unit turns, approvals, instant tour scheduling with , integrated applications from listing sites, and improved resident onboarding. This progression maintains the platform's focus on scalability, supporting thousands of customers while integrating all functions into a unified view that saves hours weekly on tasks like reporting and communication.

AppFolio Investment Manager

AppFolio Investment Manager is a cloud-based software platform designed specifically for private investment managers, enabling them to oversee syndications and portfolios efficiently. It targets general partners (GPs) and limited partners (LPs) in real estate firms who require integrated tools for and fund operations, without delving into property-level management. The platform's core functionalities include automated , which handles contributions, distributions, and reconciliations through a integrated with broader financial workflows. portals provide mobile-optimized, branded interfaces where stakeholders can track portfolios, view distributions, and respond to capital calls in real time. Capital raising tools feature CRM capabilities, customizable offering pages, and automated outreach to support offerings under regulations like 506b, 506c, and Reg A. Performance reporting delivers detailed insights into asset metrics, while is ensured via SOC1/SOC2 certifications, data encryption, and two-factor to meet requirements. AppFolio Investment Manager offers two tiers to accommodate varying firm needs: the Core tier, starting at $650 per month, provides essential features such as CRM, workflows, basic financial tracking, and a standard portal. The tier, with custom based on portfolio complexity and user count, extends these with advanced automation including full access, custom fields, SQL exports, and integrations like for more intricate operations. A key advantage of the platform is its ability to streamline communications and distributions through customizable dashboards that allow tailored views of and transaction histories, reducing manual efforts and enhancing transparency for stakeholders. Recent enhancements include brief AI-driven insights via the optional Alpha add-on, tying into broader platform innovations for .

AppFolio Stack and AI Innovations

AppFolio Stack, launched in June 2022, serves as an integration marketplace that connects third-party applications to the company's core software, enabling users to create customized workflows tailored to specific operational needs. This platform addresses the challenges of fragmented integrations in the real estate sector by providing seamless connectivity with proptech solutions, such as systems and CRM tools, thereby streamlining processes. By fostering an of partners, AppFolio Stack has expanded rapidly, adding over a dozen integrations in its first year to enhance and data flow across user operations. In the realm of AI advancements, AppFolio introduced Realm-X, an embedded generative AI system that leverages for intuitive queries and analytics within its platform. Realm-X allows users to interact via plain language to generate reports, analyze performance metrics, and derive insights from operational data, marking a shift toward more accessible AI-driven decision-making in . Recognized with the 2025 Artificial Intelligence Excellence Award for its innovative application in proptech, Realm-X builds on foundational AI capabilities to deliver contextual, industry-specific . Further enhancing its AI portfolio, AppFolio has incorporated agentic AI through Realm-X Performers, which automate complex, end-to-end workflows such as generation, requests, and resident communications. These AI agents proactively handle tasks like drafting and customizing documents based on property-specific parameters, reducing manual effort and minimizing errors in leasing operations. Launched in June 2025, the Performers enable autonomous execution across leasing, , and resident engagement, transforming reactive processes into proactive, outcome-oriented systems. The AppFolio Performance Platform, unveiled in October 2025, unifies from across the company's products to provide predictive insights and unlock new revenue opportunities through AI-native architecture. This platform integrates disparate sources into a cohesive experience, empowering teams with real-time for operational optimization and growth strategies, such as identifying upsell opportunities in resident services. By prioritizing unified and agentic automation, it supports scalability for property managers and investors alike. These innovations collectively drive efficiency gains, with Realm-X and the Performance Platform saving up to 12.5 hours per week on communications, reporting, and training for users as of August 2025 by automating routine tasks and providing actionable intelligence. This focus on AI-enhanced scalability benefits all user segments, from small property owners to large portfolios, by reducing operational overhead and fostering data-driven growth.

Awards and Recognition

Industry and Innovation Awards

In 2025, AppFolio was named to Fortune's Future 50 list, which recognizes companies with strong potential for sustained growth and innovation across industries. This accolade underscores the company's advancements in cloud-based property management solutions and its strategic focus on emerging technologies. Additionally, AppFolio's Realm-X platform received the 2025 Artificial Intelligence Excellence Award from the Business Intelligence Group in the Natural Language Processing category, honoring its contributions to AI-driven enhancements in real estate operations. AppFolio also announced the winners of its 2025 FUTUREist Awards on , celebrating innovative businesses that leverage the company's technology to drive positive change. The recipients—Fairlawn, Atlas , and Enclave Companies—were recognized for leadership in equitable housing, community impact, and team development, with AppFolio donating a total of $75,000 to charities selected by the winners. Earlier recognitions include AppFolio ranking #1 on Fortune's 2020 100 Fastest-Growing Companies list, reflecting its rapid expansion in the SaaS sector following its 2015 . Post-IPO, the company earned additional tech innovation honors, such as the 2016 IT World Awards for best software and Stevie Awards for and excellence, as well as high rankings in G2's Spring 2022 Property Management Grid for ease of use and user adoption. These awards highlight AppFolio's leadership in software-as-a-service (SaaS) and its pioneering role in AI adoption, particularly through features like Realm-X that streamline industry workflows.

Workplace and Culture Awards

AppFolio has received notable recognition for its workplace culture, particularly through the Best Workplaces in ™ 2025 list, where it ranked #19 among large companies based on employee surveys conducted by Great Place to Work. This accolade highlights the company's innovative environment, which fosters creativity and supports rapid growth by empowering employees to contribute to technological advancements in . The recognition stems from of responses from over 157,000 employees across participating tech firms, emphasizing AppFolio's commitment to an inclusive and engaging atmosphere that drives . In 2020, AppFolio was named one of Glassdoor's Best Places to Work, ranking #45 among large U.S. companies based on anonymous employee reviews that praised the company's supportive culture. Employees have consistently highlighted strong aspects of flexibility and collaborative team dynamics, contributing to ongoing high ratings, with an overall score of 3.9 out of 5 as of 2025. These evaluations reflect sustained employee satisfaction with policies that promote autonomy and interpersonal connections in a distributed workforce. To cultivate this environment, AppFolio implements targeted internal programs focused on (DEI), development, and work-life balance for its approximately 1,650 employees (as of early 2025). DEI efforts include initiatives like AppFolio Voices employee resource groups and Vida, a Latinx affinity network, aimed at building a sense of belonging and opportunity across the . growth is supported through structured learning programs covering skill-building, access, and industry expertise, while work-life balance is enhanced by flexible remote policies, co-working hubs in multiple cities, and benefits such as resources and performance incentives. These programs are integrated into the company's core operations to promote retention and collaboration. Such cultural investments have positively impacted and , as evidenced by high satisfaction ratings from Great Place to Work (92% of employees say it is a great place to work) and . For instance, the emphasis on inclusive practices and development opportunities has correlated with sustained , enabling AppFolio to maintain a stable workforce that fuels ongoing technological innovations. This alignment between culture and performance underscores the awards' validation of AppFolio's human-centered approach.

Financial Performance

Revenue Growth and Milestones

AppFolio's revenue trajectory reflects sustained expansion in the property management software sector, beginning with modest figures in its early public years. By fiscal year 2024, annual revenue had scaled significantly to $794 million, representing a 28% year-over-year increase from $620 million in 2023, driven by broader adoption of its cloud-based solutions. This momentum continued into 2025, with third-quarter revenue reaching $249 million, a 21% increase from the prior year, underscoring accelerated performance amid expanding . For the full year 2025, AppFolio projects revenue between $945 million and $950 million, implying approximately 19% growth at the midpoint, fueled by rising units under management and uptake of premium offerings. Key growth drivers include AppFolio's subscription-based model, which ensures recurring revenue stability, alongside strategic product expansions such as AI-enhanced features and value-added services like resident payments and leasing tools. The company maintains strong customer retention, with rates exceeding 90%, supporting a base of over 20,000 customers managing more than 9.1 million units as of Q3 2025. On profitability, AppFolio achieved of $204 million in 2024, a sharp rise from $2.7 million in 2023, bolstered by operational efficiencies. In 2025 earnings reports, non-GAAP operating margins have shown targeted improvements, with full-year guidance at 23.5% to 24.5% of revenue, reflecting disciplined cost management despite investments in innovation.

Stock and Market Position

AppFolio, Inc. trades on the under the APPF. The company went public in June 2015 through an priced at $12 per share. Since its IPO, the stock has experienced significant appreciation, reaching over $235 per share by late October 2025 and closing at $254.43 on October 31, 2025. Early investors have benefited from a (CAGR) of 32.8% through November 2025, turning a $1,000 at IPO into approximately $19,000. As of November 2025, AppFolio's stands at approximately $8.2 billion. The company's shares have shown resilience amid broader market volatility, with a 52-week range from $190.24 to $326.04 and a year-to-date increase of about 29% as of November 2025 (from an opening price of approximately $176). However, following the Q3 2025 earnings release on October 30, shares declined about 12% initially and further to around $228 by mid-November. AppFolio holds a leading position in the real estate software-as-a-service (SaaS) market, particularly for property management solutions targeting small to mid-sized firms. It competes primarily with established players like Yardi Systems and RealPage, but differentiates itself through a fully cloud-native architecture and AI-native platform innovations, such as the AppFolio Performance Platform launched in 2025, which integrates agentic AI for operational efficiency. In its third quarter of 2025 earnings, reported on , AppFolio achieved of $249 million, a 21% year-over-year increase, while delivering non-GAAP (EPS) of $1.31, which fell slightly short of consensus estimates but underscored ongoing profitability amid economic pressures. This performance highlights the company's strong market standing, supported by its growth trends.

References

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