How to Create a Real Estate App Like SpareRoom In 2024

Last updated on October 16th, 2024

SpareRoom is a popular property rental app that allows users to find rooms, flatshares, and apartments in the United Kingdom. With its user-friendly interface and extensive listings, it has become a go-to platform for people seeking affordable housing options, especially students and young professionals who are often on tight budgets. The app offers various filters and search criteria, making it easier for users to find accommodation that suits their specific needs and preferences.

If you are an aspiring developer or entrepreneur interested in creating a property rental app like SpareRoom, this guide will provide you with some key insights on how to get started. From understanding the market demand and analyzing the competition to building essential features such as robust search functionality, secure payment systems, and user reviews, we have got you covered. Additionally, we will explore effective marketing strategies to help your app reach a wider audience, including social media campaigns, partnerships with universities, and search engine optimization (SEO) techniques.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can turn your vision of a successful property rental app into reality, addressing the growing need for accessible and reliable housing solutions.

Table of Contents

Knowing the SpareRoom Community

Before diving into the technical aspects of creating a property rental app, it is essential to understand the target market and user base. SpareRoom caters primarily to students and young professionals in the United Kingdom, who often face challenges in finding affordable housing options. By conducting thorough market research, you can gain valuable insights into the needs and preferences of this demographic. This will help you design your app’s features and interface accordingly, making it more appealing to potential users.

Another crucial aspect of SpareRoom’s success is its strong sense of community. The app allows users to connect with each other through direct messaging and shared listings, fostering a sense of trust and camaraderie. To replicate this in your app, you need to prioritize building a user-friendly interface that promotes communication between landlords and tenants. You can also consider incorporating community features such as forums or events to further strengthen the sense of belonging within your app’s user base.

If you’re thinking about creating a real estate app like SpareRoom, consider reaching out to a mobile app development company. They can guide you through every step of the process.

Also Read: A Complete Guide to Real Estate Website Development

Future Predictions and Projections

The property rental market is continuously evolving, and it is essential to stay updated with the latest trends and predictions. As technology advances, there is a growing demand for more streamlined and accessible solutions in the housing sector. According to research by Statista, the global vacation rental market size is projected to reach $63.3 billion by 2024. This highlights the significant potential for growth and success in the property rental app market.

Additionally, with the rise of remote work and digital nomads, there has been an increase in demand for short-term rentals and flexible housing options. By understanding these trends, you can adapt your app to cater to this market and stay ahead of the competition.

Furthermore, with the increasing focus on sustainability and eco-friendly living, there is a growing interest in sustainable housing options. Integrating green features into your app’s offerings can attract environmentally-conscious users and differentiate your app from others in the market.

1. Market Analysis

Before developing a property rental app, it is crucial to conduct thorough market research and analysis. This will help you identify potential competitors, target audience, and demand for your app’s features. You can gather this information through surveys, focus groups, and online research. Additionally, understanding the current market trends and user preferences will enable you to create a more user-friendly and competitive app. Also, consider analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of existing apps to find opportunities for innovation and improvement. This comprehensive approach will provide a solid foundation for the successful development of your property rental app.

2. Growth Statistics

The property rental app market has seen significant growth in recent years, with the advent of technology and changing consumer behaviors. These apps have revolutionized the way people search for and book rental properties, making the process more convenient and efficient. According to Statista, the vacation rental market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2020-2024. This projected growth presents an excellent opportunity for app developers to capitalize on this trend and gain a competitive advantage. By focusing on user-friendly interfaces, integrating advanced search algorithms, and providing secure payment options, developers can attract a larger user base and drive greater engagement within the market.

3. Business Sustainability

In addition to market analysis and growth statistics, it is essential to consider the long-term sustainability of your property rental app business. Despite the growing demand for such apps, the market can also be highly saturated with competition. Hence, it is crucial to develop a unique value proposition that differentiates your app from others and adds value to users’ lives. This could include offering personalized recommendations, 24/7 customer support, or partnerships with popular property management companies. By continuously innovating and adapting to changing consumer needs, you can ensure the sustainability of your business in a highly competitive market.

Working Mechanism of Real Estate Apps Like SpareRoom

Real estate apps, such as SpareRoom, operate on a similar mechanism to other popular rental property apps. The app acts as an intermediary platform connecting landlords and tenants, allowing both parties to list and search for available properties. The app uses advanced search algorithms to match users based on their preferences and requirements, making the process of finding the perfect rental property more efficient.

Once a potential tenant finds a suitable property on the app, they can directly contact the landlord through in-app messaging or email. Some apps also offer additional features such as virtual tours and online booking options to further streamline the rental process.

On the other hand, landlords can use the app to manage their listed properties, update availability and pricing, and communicate with potential tenants. Many apps also offer landlord-specific features such as tenant background checks and online rent collection for added convenience.

By providing a user-friendly platform that caters to both landlords and tenants’ needs, real estate apps like SpareRoom have revolutionized the rental property market. They offer a more efficient and convenient alternative to traditional methods of finding rental properties, making them an essential tool for anyone in need of accommodation.

1. Download and Install the App

To get started with SpareRoom or any other real estate app, the first step is to download and install the app on your device. These apps are available for both Android and iOS devices and can be easily found on the respective app stores.

Once you have downloaded and installed the app, you will need to create an account using your email address or social media accounts. This is a quick and simple process that only requires basic information from you.

2. Exploring the Application

After creating an account, you can start exploring the app. Most real estate apps have a user-friendly interface with easy navigation options. You can search for properties based on your preferred location, budget, and other filters such as number of bedrooms or property type.

Some apps also offer advanced search options that allow you to filter results by amenities, pet policies, and more specific criteria. This makes it easier to find a rental property that meets all your requirements in one place.

3. Selecting Type of Residence

Real estate apps offer a variety of rental property options such as apartments, condos, single-family homes, and even shared accommodations. These platforms provide detailed listings, including photos, descriptions, and price information, making it easier for users to find their ideal living space. You can choose the type of residence you are looking for based on your budget and preferences, and many apps also feature filters for amenities, location, and lease duration. This comprehensive approach ensures you find a place that truly feels like home.

4. Checking the Facilities

While browsing through property listings, you can also check the facilities and amenities offered by each rental. This includes information on parking, laundry, security, fitness center, pool, and more. Some apps even allow you to schedule a viewing of the property directly from the app.

5. Contact Owner and Negotiate

Once you have found a property that meets your requirements, it’s time to contact the owner or property manager. Most real estate apps provide direct messaging options or allow you to call the owner directly from the app. This makes it convenient and efficient to communicate and negotiate terms.

6. Done with the Deal

After finalizing the details and signing the necessary documents, you can easily make payments and complete the deal through the app. This eliminates the need for multiple trips to offices or banks. Some apps even offer payment options such as online transfers or credit card payments.

Key Steps to Build an App Like SpareRoom

Now that we have explored the benefits of using real estate apps, let’s take a look at the key steps involved in building an app like SpareRoom:

1.Initializing the Plan

The first step in building an app is to determine the purpose and target audience. This includes researching the market demand and competition, as well as defining the core features and functionalities of the app.

2. Hiring a Right Development Partner

Choosing the right development partner is crucial for creating a successful app. Hire dedicated developers who have expertise in building real estate apps and can offer innovative solutions to meet your requirements.

3. Selecting a Theme for the Interface

The user interface of an app plays a significant role in its success. Pick a theme that is visually appealing and user-friendly. Consider using high-quality images and clear fonts to make the app more attractive.

4. Deploy Technical Stack

The technical stack is a set of programming languages, frameworks, and tools used to build an app. For real estate apps like SpareRoom, the recommended technical stack includes HTML/CSS, JavaScript, AngularJS or ReactJS for frontend development and Node.js or Ruby on Rails for backend development.

5. Application Testing

Testing is an essential step in app development to ensure a seamless user experience. Look for bugs and glitches and fix them before launching the app.

6. Integrate and Launch the App

Once the app is developed and tested, it’s time to integrate it with the necessary APIs and launch it on the desired platform(s). Consider using App Store Optimization techniques to increase its visibility in app stores.

Useful Features to Develop SpareRoom Like App

Now that we have discussed the steps involved in developing a real estate app, let’s take a look at some essential features that can make your app stand out from the competition. These features include:

User registration and login: Allow users to create accounts and login using their email or social media accounts.
Search functionality: Make it easy for users to search for properties based on location, price range, amenities, etc.
Property listings: Enable property owners to list their properties with detailed descriptions, images, and contact information.
Filtering and sorting options: Allow users to filter and sort search results based on their preferences.
In-app messaging:Implement a chat feature** that enables communication between users and property owners.
Bookings and payments:Allow users to book properties directly through the app and make secure online payments.
Reviews and ratings: Enable users to leave reviews and ratings for properties they have stayed in. This can help other users make informed decisions when searching for properties.
Push notifications: Keep your users updated with new property listings, booking confirmations, etc., using push notifications.

Top Alternatives to build a Real Estate App Like SpareRoom

While developing an app like SpareRoom, you may also want to research and consider some alternative solutions that can help you achieve your goals more efficiently. Some popular alternatives to building a real estate app like SpareRoom include:

1. Roomster

Roomster is a social networking website and mobile app that connects potential roommates and landlords in over 192 countries. It offers features such as advanced search filters, secure messaging, and verified profiles for users. Additionally, Roomster has a “roommate compatibility” feature that helps match potential roommates based on their lifestyle preferences.

2. Badi

Badi is a mobile app that connects people looking for shared accommodations. It offers a range of features such as property search, in-app messaging, and secure online payments, making the entire process seamless and convenient. Badi also includes a unique “match” feature that uses advanced algorithms to match potential roommates based on their interests, lifestyle preferences, and budget. This helps ensure compatibility and a harmonious living environment. Additionally, Badi provides users with reviews and ratings of properties and roommates, fostering trust and transparency within the community.

3. Zillow

Zillow is a popular real estate marketplace that offers an extensive database of properties for sale and rent. It also provides users with valuable insights such as property value estimates, historical sales data, and neighborhood information. Zillow also has a mobile app that allows users to search for properties, save their favorite listings, and receive notifications when new properties matching their preferences become available. Additionally, Zillow includes a feature called “Zestimate” which uses machine learning algorithms to provide estimated property values.

4. Realtor

Realtor is a comprehensive real estate platform that offers listings for properties across the United States. It provides users with advanced search filters, neighborhood information, and virtual tours of properties. Realtor also has a mobile app that allows users to save their searches, receive notifications, and connect with local real estate agents for assistance. Additionally, Realtor includes a feature called “Real Estate Guides” which provides valuable information on buying, selling, and renting properties.

5. Apartment.com

Apartment.com is a top destination for renters looking for apartments, condos, and houses for rent. It offers an easy-to-use search engine with filters such as amenities, price range, and pet policies. Users can also browse through apartment listings based on their preferred location using the interactive map feature. Apartment.com also has a mobile app that allows users to save their searches and receive updates on new available properties. Additionally, Apartment.com provides resources such as moving tips, budget calculators, and rental agreement templates to assist users in their rental journey.

Steps to Earn Money From App Like SpareRoom

1. Integrate Advertisements

One of the most common ways to earn money from an app is through advertisements. You can integrate ads in your app by partnering with advertising networks such as Google AdMob, Facebook Audience Network, or InMobi. These networks will display ads within your app and pay you a commission for every click or impression generated.

Typically, the process starts with signing up for an account with one of these advertising networks. Once registered, you will receive a unique code or software development kit (SDK) that needs to be integrated into your app. This code allows the network to display relevant ads to your users based on various criteria such as user behavior, demographics, and app content. Additionally, you can choose different types of ads, including banners, interstitials, video ads, and native ads, depending on what fits best with your app’s design and user experience. The more engaging and well-placed the ads are, the higher your potential earnings will be.

2. Provide Memberships to users

Another way to earn money from your app like SpareRoom is by offering paid memberships to users. This can be in the form of a monthly or yearly subscription, which gives users access to additional features and benefits on the app.

For example, you could offer premium membership options that allow users to contact more landlords or receive exclusive discounts on rental fees. You can also offer different tiers of membership at varying prices, depending on the level of privileges and perks included.

To implement this revenue stream, you will need to create a seamless and user-friendly payment system within your app. This usually involves partnering with a payment gateway provider such as Stripe or PayPal, which will handle the transactions securely.

3. Commission based Partnership

You can also earn money from your app by partnering with businesses and earning a commission for every referral or transaction made through your app. This is commonly known as affiliate marketing.

For example, if your app connects users with rental properties, you could partner with moving companies or furniture stores and receive a commission for every user who uses their services through your app. This not only provides an additional revenue stream but also adds value to your users by offering them exclusive deals and discounts.

4. Free Trials

To further monetize your app, you can offer free trials for certain features or services. This allows users to experience the benefits of premium membership before committing to a paid subscription.

During the trial period, users will have access to all the features and benefits of a premium membership. Once the trial ends, they will be prompted to upgrade to continue using those features. This can entice more users to try out your app and potentially convert them into paying subscribers.

Why do People Use Real Estate Apps Like SpareRoom?

Real estate apps like SpareRoom offer a convenient and efficient way to search for rental properties, which can save users time and effort. Additionally, these apps often have advanced filtering options that allow users to find properties that meet their specific criteria.

Furthermore, real estate apps can provide additional resources such as virtual tours, neighborhood information, and reviews from previous tenants. This gives users more confidence in their decision-making process when choosing a rental property.

1. Trusted Platform

One of the main reasons people use real estate apps like SpareRoom is because it is a trusted platform. These apps typically have strict verification processes for both landlords and tenants, ensuring a safe and secure rental experience.

Users can also leave reviews and ratings for properties and landlords, which helps other potential renters make informed decisions. This level of transparency builds trust within the community and encourages more users to use the app.

2. Easy to Use Application

Real estate apps are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive. Users can easily navigate through the app, search for properties, and contact landlords without any hassle. This makes the entire rental process more convenient and stress-free.

With features such as saved searches and notifications for new listings, users can stay on top of their house hunt with minimal effort. Real estate apps also typically have a large database of properties, making it easier for users to find their perfect rental home.

3. Discounted Rates

Many real estate apps offer discounted rates for their premium services or subscription plans. These discounts can include features such as unlimited messaging with potential landlords, access to exclusive listings, and enhanced search filters.

These discounts not only save users money but also provide added value to their rental experience. By investing in a premium service on a real estate app, users can find the best deals and secure their desired property quickly.

4. Verified Listing

One of the main advantages of using a real estate app is the verification of property listings. This ensures that all properties listed on the app are legitimate and available for rent.

Verified listings also provide essential information about the property, such as rental price, amenities, and location. This helps users filter through properties efficiently and make informed decisions based on their needs.

5. Long Time Support

Real estate apps also offer long-term support to their users. This can include customer service assistance, troubleshooting, and updates on new properties.

With a dedicated team behind the app, users can rely on its continued functionality and improvement. This ensures that users have a smooth and satisfactory experience throughout their rental process.

Moreover, real estate apps often have a community aspect where users can interact with other renters or landlords. This allows for a sense of support and advice from others who are going through similar experiences in the renting process.

What are the Benefits for SpareRoom App Development?

The benefits of developing a real estate app, specifically for SpareRoom, are numerous. Not only will it provide users with a convenient and efficient way to find rental properties, but it can also bring in revenue for the developers.

Here are some potential benefits of developing a SpareRoom app:

1. Genuine Customers

As mentioned earlier, real estate apps offer verified listings, ensuring that users have access to genuine and reliable property information. This means that users on SpareRoom’s app will be genuine and interested in renting properties, reducing the risk of scams and false listings. Consequently, this can attract more landlords to list their properties on the app, as they know they will be reaching a targeted and serious audience. Additionally, the app’s verification process adds a layer of trust and security, making it a preferred platform for both renters and landlords.

2. Less Competition

While there are various real estate apps in the market, developing an app specifically for SpareRoom means that it will have less competition compared to more general rental apps. This can make it easier for your app to stand out and gain a loyal user base.

3. Large Market Cap

The demand for rental properties is continuously increasing, especially in urban areas where SpareRoom operates. Developing an app for this specific market can tap into a large pool of potential users, providing ample opportunities for growth and success.

4. Varied Partnering Options

Developing a real estate app for SpareRoom means that there are various partnering options available. For instance, you can partner with local property management companies and offer them a platform to list their properties or collaborate with popular furniture rental companies to provide users with convenient furnishing options.

5. Spread Business at Multiple Locations

Since SpareRoom operates in multiple locations, developing an app for this platform can provide the opportunity to spread your business and reach a wider audience. This can lead to increased brand recognition and a larger customer base.

Cost to Develop a Real Estate App Like SpareRoom

Developing a real estate app like SpareRoom involves multiple factors that contribute to the overall cost. The primary expenses can be broken down as follows:

1. Design and Prototyping

Creating an intuitive and aesthetically pleasing design is crucial. This stage typically costs between $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the complexity and the number of screens.

2. Development

The development phase includes front-end and back-end development. The cost for front-end development ranges from $10,000 to $25,000, while back-end development can range from $15,000 to $35,000. The total development costs could thus fall between $25,000 to $60,000.

3. Testing and Quality Assurance

Ensuring that the app is free from bugs and provides a seamless user experience is critical. The testing and QA phase usually costs around $5,000 to $10,000.

4. Server and Maintenance

Ongoing server costs and maintenance are essential for the smooth functioning of the app. These costs can range from $1,000 to $3,000 per month.

5. Marketing and Promotion

To successfully launch and promote your app, you may need to invest in marketing efforts which could cost between $10,000 to $30,000 depending on your strategy and reach.

How can iTechnolabs help you to build an App Like SpareRoom?

iTechnolabs a top real estate app development company has a team of experienced developers and designers who can help you bring your vision to life. Our expertise in developing real estate apps and our comprehensive understanding of market trends can ensure that your app stands out from the competition. We offer end-to-end services for mobile app development, including design, prototyping, development, testing, and maintenance. Our team follows a robust process to deliver high-quality products within the set budget and timeline.

Our journey begins with a thorough consultation to understand your specific needs and objectives. We then move on to the design phase, where our creative designers craft intuitive and user-friendly interfaces. In the prototyping stage, we create interactive models to visualize the app’s functionality before actual development begins. Our experienced developers then build the app using the latest technologies and best practices to ensure optimal performance and scalability.

Here’s how iTechnolabs can assist you in building an app like SpareRoom:

Consultation and Planning: We begin with a detailed consultation to understand your requirements and objectives, ensuring your vision is clearly defined and aligned with market demands.
Custom Design and UI/UX: Our expert designers create custom, user-friendly interfaces that offer an engaging user experience, tailored to your brand and target audience.
Prototyping: We develop interactive prototypes to provide a tangible model of the app’s functionality, allowing you to visualize the final product and make necessary adjustments before development.
Development: Our skilled developers utilize the latest technologies and best practices to build a robust, scalable, and high-performance app that meets your specifications.
Quality Assurance and Testing: Rigorous testing is conducted to ensure the app is bug-free, secure, and performs seamlessly across various devices and platforms.
Deployment and Launch: We manage the entire deployment process, ensuring a smooth launch on the desired platforms and handling all technical aspects.
Post-Launch Support and Maintenance: Beyond the initial launch, we offer ongoing support and maintenance to keep the app running smoothly, including regular updates and troubleshooting.
Marketing Support: We provide assistance with marketing strategies to promote your app, helping you reach a wider audience and achieve your business goals.

Are you planning to create a property rental app like SpareRoom?

Choosing iTechnolabs to help you build an app like SpareRoom comes with numerous benefits. Firstly, our comprehensive consultation and planning phase ensures that every detail of your project is thoroughly understood and aligned with current market trends, setting a strong foundation for success. Additionally, our custom design and UI/UX services guarantee a visually appealing and user-centric app, enhancing user engagement and satisfaction. The prototyping phase allows you to see a working model of your app early on, providing an opportunity for feedback and adjustments to ensure the final product meets your expectations.

During the development phase, our team of skilled programmers leverages the latest technologies and industry best practices to deliver a high-performance, scalable app. Rigorous quality assurance and testing processes ensure that your app is free from bugs and security vulnerabilities, offering a seamless experience for users across multiple devices. Our deployment and launch service simplifies the technical complexities of going live, ensuring a smooth and efficient release.

Comprehensive Planning and Consultation: We ensure your project goals align with current market trends and user needs through in-depth research and strategic planning. Our experts work closely with you to understand your vision and objectives, providing valuable insights to shape your project’s direction from the outset.
Custom Design and UI/UX Services: Our talented designers create a visually appealing and user-friendly app that enhances user engagement and satisfaction. We focus on intuitive navigation, compelling visuals, and a seamless user interface to provide an exceptional user experience.
Prototyping Phase: This phase allows for early testing and feedback, ensuring the final product meets your expectations. By creating a prototype, we can identify potential issues and make necessary adjustments before full-scale development, saving time and resources.
Advanced Development Techniques: We leverage the latest technologies and industry best practices to build a high-performance, scalable app. Our development team is proficient in various programming languages and frameworks, ensuring your app is robust, secure, and future-proof.

Important: How to Develop a Real Estate Rental Finder App like Zumper?

Conclusion:

In today’s competitive market, having a well-designed and functional mobile app is crucial for success. Our end-to-end mobile app development services provide you with a comprehensive solution to bring your ideas to life. From initial planning and consultation to final deployment, we deliver a high-quality product that meets your specific needs and exceeds user expectations.

FAQs!

Q1. How Long Would it Take to Build an App Like SpareRoom?

A1. The development timeline for an app like SpareRoom depends on various factors such as the complexity of features, design requirements, user interface, and the thoroughness of the testing phase. Our team at iTechnolabs will work closely with you to understand your project’s scope and requirements, ensuring that every detail is meticulously planned out. We will provide you with a comprehensive estimated timeline, keeping you informed at each stage of the development process to ensure transparency and alignment with your goals.

Q2. How Much Does it Cost to Develop an App Like SpareRoom?

A2. The cost of developing an app like SpareRoom will depend on several factors, including the features and functionalities you require, the complexity of design, the level of customization needed, and the platform(s) you want your app to be available on, such as iOS, Android, or both. Additionally, ongoing maintenance and updates can also influence the overall cost. At iTechnolabs, we offer flexible pricing options tailored to fit your budget and project needs, ensuring that you get a high-quality product that meets all your requirements. Our team of experienced developers is dedicated to delivering exceptional service and support throughout the development process and beyond.

Q3. What are the Benefits to Create an App Like SpareRoom?

A3. There are numerous advantages to creating an app like SpareRoom, such as:

Increased convenience for users: An app allows users to browse and search for properties at their convenience, without the need to use a desktop or laptop.
Broader audience reach: With the widespread use of smartphones, having an app can help you target a wider audience and increase your user base.
Enhanced user engagement: Apps provide a more personalized experience for users with features like push notifications, in-app messaging, and social media integration, increasing user engagement and retention.

Q4. How to Earn Money From Apps Like SpareRoom?

A4. There are several ways to monetize an app like SpareRoom, such as:

Subscription fees: You can charge users a monthly or yearly subscription fee to access premium features, such as advanced search options or messaging capabilities.
In-app advertising: You can generate revenue by displaying targeted advertisements within the app.
Commission on bookings: If your app facilitates property rental bookings, you can earn a commission on each successful transaction.
Partnering with real estate agencies: Collaborating with real estate agencies and charging them for listing their properties on your app is another way to generate income.

Q5. How iTechnolabs is a Trusted Partner for your SpareRoom App Development?

A5. iTechnolabs is a trusted partner for your SpareRoom app development due to the following reasons:

Experience: With years of experience, we have a deep understanding of the real estate market and user behavior, enabling us to develop high-quality apps that meet users’ needs.
Expertise: Our team consists of skilled real estate app developers with expertise in real estate mobile app development, UI/UX design, and project management, ensuring a seamless development process and top-notch end product.
Customization: We offer highly customizable solutions tailored to your specific requirements and budget.
Quality assurance: We follow rigorous quality assurance processes to ensure bug-free, user-friendly, and reliable apps.
Timely delivery: We adhere to strict deadlines and deliver the project within the agreed timeframe.
Support: Our team provides ongoing support and maintenance services to ensure your app runs smoothly and stays up-to-date with the latest technologies and industry trends. Overall, we strive to build long-term relationships with our clients and help them achieve their business goals through our app development services.

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