Episode 26: The Algorithm Knows

September 29, 2026
AI is changing the way renters search for apartments and, just as importantly, how they decide which properties to trust. J Turner Research’s sixth Internet Adventure Study found that renters are increasingly using tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity to generate apartment lists, compare communities, research neighborhood safety, and identify red flags in reviews. For multifamily operators, that means the prospect journey can now begin with an AI-generated summary before a renter ever reaches a property website or speaks with a leasing team.
 Episode 26: The Algorithm Knows
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That shift also changes the role of online reputation. A strong star rating can be undermined when AI identifies recurring complaints about issues like pests, maintenance, or hidden fees. At the same time, properties with lower ratings can benefit when recent reviews show responsive teams, strong maintenance, and satisfied residents. AI is turning review content into a narrative, making the substance of resident feedback more important than the average rating alone.

In the latest episode of The Multifamily Review, Marcus Armstrong explores what this means for operators and reputation teams. From checking what AI is already saying about your property to improving management responses and addressing recurring operational issues, the new question is no longer just, “What is our star rating?” It is, “What does our two-sentence AI summary say?”

Are you ready to build a better comunity with happier residents?