FirstKey Homes increases auto pay adoption with Paylode Boost
Executive summary
FirstKey Homes partnered with Paylode to accelerate resident auto-pay adoption through their branded perks program, Purple Perks. Using Paylode Boost, they launched a limited-time offer — a gift card for the first 60 residents to enroll — delivered via trusted channels with targeted messaging and real-time tracking. The campaign achieved a 62%+ email open rate, 34% click-to-sign-up conversion, and a significant jump in auto-pay enrollments within one week, improving payment reliability, cash flow predictability, and operational efficiency.
FirstKey Homes
With more than 50,000 single-family rental homes in 28 desirable markets nationwide, FirstKey Homes is committed to help our residents find the space they need, the privacy they want and the peace of mind they deserve.To accomplish this, we offer an unmatched resident experience, caring communication and an industry-leading loyalty program, FirstKey Homes Rewards, to give our residents more of what they need to love where they live.Our team members, affectionately called Keypers, embody our company values and are the key to our inclusive culture where belonging thrives. We call it #LifeatFKH. At FirstKey Homes, we have made a commitment to our team members that we will:• Welcome You with care and help you understand the important role you play at FirstKey Homes• Grow You by providing opportunities where you are empowered to use your particular skillset and encouraged to invest in your future career growth• Include You by celebrating your uniqueness where your voice will be heard and welcomed• Reward You throughout your career at FKH with benefits, rewards and recognition that value your contributions.Join us and be a part of our team of purple-powered Keypers and enjoy #LifeatFKH!Apply for an open job role and join this exceptional team!
Challenge
Despite ongoing reminders, auto-pay adoption wasn’t growing as fast as FirstKey Homes wanted. They needed a way to make enrollment feel less like a task and more like a genuine benefit to residents.
Stagnant auto-pay adoption
Perception problem
Making enrollment feel like a benefit
FirstKey Homes partnered with Paylode to shift the resident mindset around auto-pay. Instead of relying on repeated reminders, they launched a Boost campaign where residents received a curated perk only after enrolling. This “do this → get that” model reframed auto-pay as a valuable benefit, making adoption simple, rewarding, and measurable.
Results
Auto-pay adoption soared with measurable, trackable impact
25% increase in auto-pay enrollments
25% increase in auto-pay enrollments within the first campaign period
100% ROI accountability
100% ROI accountability with perks delivered only after enrollment
Boosted resident satisfaction
Boosted resident satisfaction by turning payments into a value-add experience
