Birge & Held, a national real estate investment, development, and management company with over 20,000 apartment units under management, has partnered with Tour24, a self-guided tour platform for the multifamily industry. This collaboration integrates Tour24’s solution across Birge & Held’s 125-property portfolio.
Birge & Held selected Tour24 as part of its strategy to transition to a more tech-empowered centralized model. The Tour24 platform provides self-guided tour experiences, vacant unit management, and wayfinding tools. Kory Nelson, Vice President of Sales & Leasing at Birge & Held, stated that technology is foundational to success and emphasized that they curate partners who drive operational and financial performance. Nelson cited Tour24’s ease of deployment, user experience, and impact on leasing outcomes as key factors in their selection.
Tour24 is designed to integrate into existing leasing and operations strategies, reducing redundancy. The platform’s focus on vacant unit tours allows prospective renters to access move-in-ready spaces, aiming to accelerate the decision-making process. Georgianna W. Oliver, CEO and Founder of Tour24, commented on the importance of centralizing and modernizing the touring experience in today’s leasing landscape, highlighting the shared commitment to innovation and efficiency.
Following a pilot program across four communities, Birge & Held reported an increase in lease conversions. This initial success led to a rapid portfolio-wide expansion, with more than 90% of Birge & Held assets expected to feature Tour24 self-guided tours by the end of 2025.
Key benefits identified from the implementation include expanded touring hours, allowing prospects to visit properties during early mornings, late evenings, and Sundays. The system also offers dynamic routing to vacant units and guided in-app navigation with wayfinding technology and beacons. This supports Birge & Held’s goal of achieving a more efficient on-site staffing model while maintaining service quality, and Tour24’s support model has facilitated team adoption across regional teams.
Nelson concluded that offering flexible touring options with an embraced tech stack is crucial for competitive positioning, stating that Tour24 was a strategic business decision.
Tour24, based in Boston, provides an app for apartment owners and operators to facilitate self-guided tours, aiming to increase traffic, tours, and leases. Birge & Held is committed to transforming communities and delivering value for residents and investors.