RentCafe Rewards Stage 1 | WCM Blog

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New Rewards System for All Residents

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We’re excited to introduce something new that’s going to change the way you interact with your resident portal — and reward you for it, too! RentCafe, the trusted payment and resident management portal you already use to pay rent and manage your lease, has officially launched the first phase of an exciting new program: Rewards by RentCafe.

This brand-new system gives you the chance to earn points for doing the things you’re already doing — like paying rent, signing up for services, and maintaining good resident habits — and then cashing in those points for real-world rewards. Yes, you read that right. You can now start earning actual perks, just for being an engaged, responsible renter. Welcome to the future of apartment living!

So, How Does It Work?

The Rewards by RentCafe system is structured around a points-based program. Think of it as your new favorite loyalty program — but instead of racking up points at your local coffee shop, you're earning them simply by living your life and taking care of your responsibilities as a renter.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • You complete certain activities or enroll in specific services.

  • You earn points.

  • You exchange those points for rewards in the Rewards Marketplace, a virtual shop filled with exciting items and gift cards.

Whether you’re eyeing a Target gift card to stock up on essentials, dreaming about travel experiences, or just hoping to score some fun extras, the Marketplace has something for everyone. It’s designed to be intuitive, rewarding, and — most of all — easy.

How to Enroll in Rewards by RentCafe

Getting started with the program is simple and takes just a few minutes. All you need to do is enroll — that’s it! There are two easy ways to sign up:

  1. Click hereThen, click Menu > Renter Essentials > Rewards
  2. Open the Walnut Capital App, then follow these steps:
    Menu > Resident Shield > Rewards by RentCafe

Once you’re in, you’ll be able to start collecting points right away.

How Can You Earn Points?

Currently, during Phase One of the program rollout, there are a few specific ways you can begin collecting points. These early opportunities are tied to optional services available through the RentCafe platform and Walnut Capital app:

  • Renter Shield Insurance: Earn 100 points per month just by enrolling in this valuable renters insurance program. It provides peace of mind for you and your belongings — and now it gives you perks, too.

  • IDIQ with Paid Upgrade:

    • Earn 250 points per month for opting into historical rent reporting.

    • Earn an additional 75 points per month when you activate credit monitoring.

Wondering what IDIQ is? It’s a credit reporting and monitoring service that allows you to build your credit history simply by paying your rent. Once enrolled, your rent payments will be reported to credit bureaus, just like a mortgage or car loan. This can be incredibly helpful for residents looking to boost or establish their credit score — especially if you’re planning for big future purchases like a home or a vehicle.

Note: Standard IDIQ will NOT give you points, it's just a new feature RentCafe added on with their Resident Rewards program.

Coming Soon: Even More Ways to Earn

We know what you’re thinking — that’s great, but I want more ways to earn! Don’t worry, we hear you. This is just the first phase of a larger rollout, and more opportunities to earn points are already in the works.

In the coming months, residents will be able to earn points for a wider range of everyday activities. Some of the upcoming options could include:

  • Paying rent on time each month

  • Renewing your lease

  • Submitting maintenance requests through the portal

  • Referring a friend or family member to a Walnut Capital property

  • Participating in community events or wellness challenges

  • Engaging with our content on social media (hello, Instagram photo ops!)

  • Leaving verified reviews after a tour or service

  • Completing resident satisfaction surveys

  • Enrolling in partner services, such as Comcast, at select properties

These new ways to earn are designed to reward you for doing the things you already do — while encouraging participation in the Walnut Capital community and reinforcing good habits.

Rewards That Feel Worth It

So, what exactly can you redeem your points for?

Enter the Rewards Marketplace — your one-stop virtual shop for goodies big and small. Whether you’re saving up for a high-ticket item or just want to cash in your points for a little treat, you’ll find options that work for you. Some of the popular items include:

  • Retail Gift Cards: Use your points to grab cards for stores like Target, Amazon, Starbucks, and more.

  • Travel Experiences: Use your points toward airline vouchers, hotel stays, or even vacation packages (yes, really).

  • Tech and Home Goods: Shop for small electronics, kitchen gadgets, and practical everyday items.

  • Subscription Services: Redeem for entertainment, wellness, or productivity subscriptions.

And the best part? You’re being rewarded for things you’re already doing. No extra work required.

Why This Matters

It’s not every day you get rewarded for being a good tenant. In fact, most renters go their entire lease term without so much as a thank-you. That’s why RentCafe’s Rewards program is such a game-changer. It brings incentive and engagement into the resident experience — and adds a layer of appreciation to your daily routines.

Walnut Capital is proud to be one of the first to integrate this system across its properties. We know that happy, engaged residents make for stronger communities, and we want to show our appreciation in tangible, rewarding ways.

So whether you’re budgeting for the month, saving up for a splurge, or just want to treat yourself with something fun, Rewards by RentCafe gives you the tools to make it happen.

What’s Next?

Keep your eyes on your inbox and the Walnut Capital app. We’ll be announcing new earning opportunities, program updates, and limited-time bonuses as the system continues to evolve.

And remember: the more you engage, the more you earn!

Suggestions?

This program is for you, so if there’s a feature or reward you’d love to see added to the Rewards Marketplace, let us know! We’re constantly working to improve the resident experience and your feedback helps shape the future of the program.

Drop us a message below to give your suggestions.


Start earning. Start rewarding. Start now.
The Rewards by RentCafe program is your new go-to for perks, points, and possibilities — and it’s just getting started.

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