Choosing Between OneSite and AppFolio for HUD Properties: What Real Estate Operators Need to Know

Managing HUD properties comes with a unique set of challenges—from strict compliance requirements and income certifications to layered funding sources and detailed reporting. Two of the most commonly used platforms for affordable housing management are RealPage OneSite and AppFolio. Both systems offer specialized tools to help property managers stay compliant, efficient, and organized—but the right choice often depends on the complexity of your portfolio and the operational flexibility you need.

RealPage OneSite has long been a dominant player in HUD property management. It offers deep compliance capabilities, layered subsidy tracking, and advanced LIHTC tools. However, many operators find that the system can be rigid and overly complex, requiring significant training and IT support. In contrast, AppFolio's Affordable Housing Module brings a more modern, intuitive user experience while still supporting essential HUD workflows like 50059 processing, EIV validation, and TRACS submissions. AppFolio also integrates budgeting, maintenance, and resident engagement tools into one platform, making it an appealing all-in-one solution for teams looking to increase efficiency and cut down on siloed systems.

For many owners and operators, the decision comes down to scale and usability. If you manage a large HUD portfolio with multiple subsidy types and advanced funding structures, OneSite may offer deeper customization. But for mid-size to growing portfolios that need speed, ease of use, and modern automation, AppFolio presents a compelling alternative. At Real Ops, we've helped clients transition from OneSite to AppFolio with better reporting, smoother compliance workflows, and reduced overhead. Choosing the right platform isn't just about features—it's about what will empower your team to stay compliant and operate at scale without compromise.