The comparison at a glance
| Criterion | Self (manual) | Real estate agency | SaaS software |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | 0 EUR | 1 month rent + 6-10%/year | 24.90 EUR/month |
| Landlord time | 5-10 h/month | < 1 h/month | 2-3 h/month |
| Control | Total | Low (delegated) | High |
| Auto compliance | Manual | Variable | Automatic |
| Electronic signature | No | No | Yes |
| Tenant placement | Self-directed | Managed by agency | Assisted |
| Tenant relationship | Direct | Delegated | Direct |
See also: vs Excel/paper - vs agency - top 5 software.
Path 1: Self-manage (manual method)
The landlord handles everything. Strengths: no cost, total control, direct relationship. Limitations: time-consuming (5-10 h/month), error risk, no electronic signature. For whom? 1 property to a close relation, very technical landlord.
Path 2: Real estate agency
The landlord has signed a mandate with the agency. Strengths: near-total delegation (< 1 h/month), professional expertise. Limitations: high cost (agency commission), less control.
Path 3: SaaS software (BailBelgique)
Control retained, time savings (3-8 h/month), fixed rate 24.90 EUR/month, automatic WAL/BXL/FLA compliance, no commission, unlimited properties. The landlord remains involved for physical visits and inspections.
Real cost over 5 years (property rented at 900 EUR/month)
| Approach | Software/agency cost | Landlord time (20 EUR/h) | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self | 0 EUR | 6,000 EUR | ~6,000 EUR |
| Agency | ~8,000 EUR | 1,200 EUR | ~9,200 EUR |
| Software | 1,494 EUR | 2,400 EUR | ~3,894 EUR |
Software is the most profitable option for an involved individual landlord.
Recommendation by profile
- 1 property to a close relation: self-manage.
- 1-10 active properties: SaaS software.
- 10+ properties without time: agency or professional software.
- Expat: agency.
- Complex property: specialised agency.
BailBelgique pricing - Create a lease online - Online rental management.