With last week’s announcement of the iPad 2, Apple seems to be claiming a solid spot at the top of the tablet computer market. The iPad has already made quite an impact in some multifamily communities, with leasing agents and property managers using it for everything from guest cards to work orders. In anticipation of the new iPad and coming upgrades to our own SiteTablet app, Property Solutions has compiled a list of the 1000 best ways for property managers to use your iPad. Read below for a preview, and attend our free webinar on March 22 for the full list.

1. Save the trees! Instead of a pile of paper brochures, why not hand prospective renters an iPad? True, you’ll need to ask them to hand it back before they go, but in the meantime they’ll be able to see all of the great things about your community on a super-sharp screen. Plus, the guest card feature lets you collect contact information so you can email brochure information links as a follow-up.
2. The power of touch. Use the iPad as a touchscreen kiosk in the leasing office. Several manufacturers have come up with stands that securely hold an iPad at a comfortable working height and allow visitors to preview floorplans and amenities or even begin a lease application.
3. And we’re walking… The iPad can help enhance the actual property tour. Bring one along as you walk the property with a prospective renter to show amenities lists for specific units as well as a property map that provides a birds-eye perspective. Real-time availability and pricing information can be the details that help a prospect decide to become a resident.
4. Spread the love. If you don’t have that perfect 2 bedroom 2 bath unit available just when the prospect needs it, you can use your SiteTable iPad app to show property and availability information of nearby properties in your portfolio.
5. Form meets function. Use the iPad with the Site Tablet app to collect information from residents as well as prospects. Along with guest cards and applications, residents can submit maintenance request forms and online payments on the iPad’s super-sleek interface.
6. Accessorize! As much as we love the touch-screen interface on the iPad, we admit that it isn’t ideal for serious data entry. That’s why we like cool iPad accessories such as the keyboard dock. Have one handy for easy data collection.
7. A beautiful day in the neighborhood. Load apps that highlight the best features of the neighborhood, from restaurants and shopping to amusement parks and sporting venues. This will help give perspective renters an idea of how cool life could be if they decide to live in your community.

These suggestions are just the tip of the iPad iceburg. Property managers are finding creative ways to introduce this remarkable gadget into their leasing and retention processes. We’ve put together a panel of on-site iPad users who are excited to share their ideas. Register for the free webinar today.