DIY vs. Turnkey Resident Benefits Packages: Which Is Right for You?

Resident benefits packages have become a powerful tool for property managers to improve retention, reduce maintenance headaches, and generate ancillary revenue. The question is—should you build your package in-house (DIY) or go with a pre-bundled, turnkey solution?

Let’s explore the pros and cons of each approach.

Turnkey Resident Benefits Packages

Pros

• Convenience: Pre-built bundles are quick to roll out with minimal effort.

• Consistency: Standardized offerings across your portfolio.

• Time Savings: Less vendor management since one provider handles most services.
  
  

Cons

• Limited Flexibility: You’re locked into a package that may not perfectly match your residents’ needs.

• Higher Costs: Third-party markups often cut into profitability.

• Generic Experience: Many properties use similar bundles, making it harder to stand out.

• Legal Considerations: If services aren’t clearly valuable to residents, fees may be viewed as “junk fees,” which can create risk in today’s regulatory environment.

DIY Resident Benefits Packages

Pros

• Customization: Pick and choose benefits your residents actually want—like air filter delivery, renter’s insurance, or pest control.

• Flexibility: Adjust offerings and schedules based on resident feedback.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Avoid third-party markups and keep more revenue in-house.

• Stronger Value Perception: Transparent, meaningful benefits build resident trust.

• Legal Clarity: By structuring your package yourself, you avoid unnecessary add-ons that could be perceived as junk fees.
  
  

Cons

• More Setup Effort: Requires upfront planning and vendor selection.

• Ongoing Management: You’ll need to review and refine offerings over time.

Which Option Is Right for You?

If you want speed and simplicity, a turnkey package might make sense. But if you value control, transparency, and profitability, a DIY approach gives you more flexibility to design benefits that actually serve your residents and owners.

The right choice depends on your business goals—but both models can provide significant value when executed well.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

👉 If you’re ready to bring your benefits in-house, start with a perk that residents consistently need: air filter delivery. With FilterTime, you’ll provide cleaner air, lower utility bills, and protect HVAC systems—all while generating ancillary revenue. Book a demo with FilterTime today to get started.

👉 If you prefer a turnkey solution, check out our friends at Utility Valet. Their Resident Value Package covers utilities, internet, renter’s insurance, moving coordination, and—thanks to our partnership—hassle-free air filter delivery through FilterTime. It’s an easy way to offer a full suite of managed services to your residents while giving your properties a competitive edge.