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The Ultimate Guide to Selecting the Best Trust Accounting Software for Your Agency

Writer's picture: Sonia Mammino-RahmeSonia Mammino-Rahme

You know it, we know it: The backbone of any property management or sales agency is its trust accounting system. Choosing the right trust accounting software isn't just a matter of convenience (although, convenience is so important if you want to run efficiently)  it's a crucial strategy to ensure compliance, streamline operations, and enhance service delivery.  So if you’re not happy with your current trust accounting software, and you’re ready to make the switch, here’s how you can ensure you're picking the best trust accounting software for your agency.


Understand the Essentials


Start by identifying the essential features that a competent trust accounting software must offer. Key functionalities should include:

  • Cloud-Based Operations and Backup: Cloud services ensure that your data is accessible anytime and anywhere, with robust security and regular backups.

  • Efficient Transaction Handling: Features like invoice scanning with barcode readers, and import transaction capabilities streamline the daily receipting and bank reconciliation processes.

  • Comprehensive Document Management: The ability to effortlessly store and retrieve leases, notices, and other critical documents associated with each property.

  • Landlord and Tenant Portals: These portals should provide easy access to financial statements, property information, maintenance requests, and rent receipts, facilitating transparency and improving communication.

  • Inspection Apps: Integrated inspection tools that allow property managers to schedule, conduct, and report inspections efficiently, enhancing the service provided to landlords. This might be essential for you, or you might already have an inspection app that you’re happy with, in which case, this might not be essential for you.

  • End of Month Processing: The software should enable quick and error-free end-of-month processing.


Compliance and Security


When selecting software, compliance with local regulations and security protocols is non-negotiable. Ensure that the software adheres to your state or territory’s regulations in relation to trust accounts, maintaining compliance with all necessary trust account handling requirements. Features such as the ability to journal funds correctly, and minimise any unnecessary or unauthorised adjustments.


Usability and Support


The best trust accounting software should not only be powerful but also user-friendly. It should offer an intuitive interface where everyday tasks such as automated receipting, managing ledgers, and generating reports are straightforward. Opt for providers who offer comprehensive training and responsive customer support to ensure you can maximise the software’s capabilities.


Tailoring to Your Agency’s Needs


Every real estate agency is unique, and the software should be able to accommodate specific needs. Whether it’s handling multiple trust accounts, managing sales, rentals, commercial properties, or short-term rentals, the software should offer customisable features or modules that align with your business operations. Furthermore, consider the scalability of the software to ensure it can grow with your business.


Evaluating the Cost


Cost is always a consideration, but it shouldn’t be the sole determinant. Assess the value the software brings in terms of time saved, reduction of errors, and compliance benefits. Be wary of solutions that require payments for unnecessary modules or do not provide clear pricing structures.


Making an Informed Decision


Before finalising your choice, take advantage of free trials and demonstrations offered by most providers. These trials are invaluable for assessing how well the software integrates with your existing workflows and how it improves your team’s efficiency.

Search for the software provider in your favourite Facebook groups and find out software programs are loved and recommended by industry colleagues.


Selecting the right trust accounting software is a critical decision that can significantly impact the operational success of your real estate agency. Once you’ve made the decision, it’s difficult (not impossible) to change. By focusing on comprehensive features, compliance, user-friendliness, scalability, and support, you can ensure that your choice meets today’s needs but also adapts to future demands. Remember, the best trust accounting software is the one that fits seamlessly into your agency, enhancing your ability to manage properties efficiently and compliantly.


For a tailored solution that meets these stringent criteria and more, consider exploring Think Cloud Solutions. Our customisable service offerings are designed to handle the complexities of real estate trust accounting, ensuring you stay ahead in the game. We can help you make this important decision for your business and support you through the transition, training and implementation of your new trust accounting software. Contact us directly to see how we can transform your trust accounting processes.

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