As rental demand has led to numerous community developments expected to open for business during the next year, Multi-Housing News says rental property management firms can separate themselves from the competition by amping up their customer service.

While older complexes may find it difficult to compete with newer properties, the source states management firms can keep their apartments full by improving conditions and amenities, by remodeling units.

Some apartment industry minds state that to adequately compete with newer rental properties, customer service enhancement should be an ongoing process.

"If you really want to be competitive with the new product, you have to differentiate yourself by service level. The new product may be able to fill their community quickly, but are they going to be able to hold onto those residents?" Jen Piccotti, vice president of consulting services for SatisFacts Research, told MHN.

Shep Hyken, author of "The Amazement Revolution," told Business Insider that a key to above-average customer service in any industry is to create a strong brand name.