Leasing Agent
Job Description:A Leasing Agent facilitates the rental of residential or commercial properties by marketing vacancies, screening potential tenants, and assisting with lease agreements.
Job Category:What you will do:
As a leasing agent, you will be:
- Promoting available rental units to attract prospective tenants through advertisements, listings, and showings
- Screening and evaluating rental applications, including background checks, credit checks, and rental history verification
- Conducting property tours to showcase rental units, highlight features, and address tenant inquiries
- Assisting tenants in understanding lease terms, conditions, and rental agreements, and ensuring compliance with property policies
- Managing rent collection processes, including late fees and payment reminders
- Coordinating maintenance and repair requests from tenants and ensuring timely resolution
- Conducting move-in and move-out inspections, documenting property conditions, and addressing security deposit matters
- Maintaining accurate records of tenant communications, lease agreements, and financial transactions
- Building positive relationships with tenants, addressing concerns, and ensuring tenant satisfaction
- Staying informed about local rental market trends, competitor pricing, and market conditions
- Adhering to federal, state, and local rental laws, regulations, and fair housing policies
- Providing property owners and management with regular reports on property occupancy, financial performance, and tenant issues
- Assisting in property maintenance, cleanliness, and curb appeal to attract and retain tenants
- Offering exceptional customer service to both current and potential tenants
- Facilitating lease renewals and addressing tenant retention strategies
Skills:
You will need:
- knowledge in property management, marketing and real estate
- knowledge of tenant screening processes
- familiarity with local rental market conditions, trends, and pricing
- understanding of lease terms, rental agreements, and lease negotiations
- knowledge of property maintenance and repair coordination processes
- knowledge in legal compliance and ethics
- proficiency in property management software, databases, and digital marketing tools
- basic financial knowledge
As well as:
- effective communication skills
- customer service skills
- negotiation skills
- problem-solving skills
- empathy
- adaptability skills
- time management (organisational skills)
- the ability to pay attention to detail
- teamwork skills
- stress management
- ethical conduct
Entry Requirements:
To become a Leasing Agent, specific GCSE subjects are not typically required. However, the following subjects can provide a strong foundation for skills needed in this profession:
- Mathematics: Helps with financial calculations, budgeting, and lease-related math.
- English: Enhances communication skills, both written and verbal, which are important for interacting with tenants and colleagues.
- Business Studies: Provides insights into business principles, which can be valuable in property management.
- ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Familiarity with technology is helpful for managing digital records and online marketing.
While these subjects can be beneficial, practical experience, on-the-job training, and a strong understanding of the real estate industry often play a more significant role in preparing for a career as a Leasing Agent. Consider pursuing further education or vocational qualifications in real estate or property management if available.
To become a Leasing Agent, you typically need the following qualifications and requirements:
High School Diploma
A high school diploma or equivalent is often the minimum educational requirement.
Real Estate License (Optional)
In some regions or states, obtaining a real estate license may be required or beneficial. Check local regulations.
On-the-Job Training
Gain practical experience in the field by working in entry-level positions, such as a Leasing Assistant or Leasing Consultant.
Working Hours and Environment:
Leasing Agents typically work during regular business hours in a combination of office and on-site settings, with occasional weekend or overtime work during busy leasing periods.
Career Path & Progression:
The typical career path of a Leasing Agent involves starting in entry-level positions, gaining experience and skills, advancing to higher-level roles like Senior Leasing Agent or Leasing Manager, and potentially specialising in a particular property type or market segment.