How Does
How Does a Real Estate Leasing Agent Spend a Workday?
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Real estate leasing agents may work for a variety of companies leasing homes, apartments and commercial spaces. They are comparable to real estate agents; however, they do not close the sale of a piece of property--they simply find a tenant. Typically real estate leasing agents will make an hourly rate plus commission. Commercial properties will often have higher lease rates and longer lease times, which may be more profitable for the leasing agent. However, these leases may be less common and slightly harder sells. Leasing agents serve as the liaison between the tenant and landlord, and must ensure to convey all important information and documentation to each party.
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Essentially, real estate leasing agents are a sales people. If they work for an apartment leasing agency, they will spend the majority of their time showing apartments to potential residents. Appointments are scheduled through the leasing agent's sales efforts. If the leasing agent works for multiple apartment complexes, they may advertise their services, have open houses and use other marketing techniques to attract people who are searching for an apartment.
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An integral part of success as a real estate leasing agent involves marketing a piece of property and closing the deal with the prospective renter. Leasing agents must be familiar with the property that they are showing so that they can point out the positive aspects of the property. They must also probe prospective tenants to uncover their specific desires in the apartment, house or building. If a client prefers a large backyard, a competent leasing agent will narrow their search to properties that offer this feature. Leasing agents must also be persistent. If a probable occupant does not immediately respond to the property, the agent must continue to contact the client and point out other possible properties. The agent must also confidently overcome objectives that the renter may voice such as size, cost, neighborhood and other negative features. Finally, because many companies have several leasing agents, each agent must follow their sales through to the filing of the paperwork. Otherwise, other agents may close the deal and take commission for the sale.
eHow Article: How Does a Real Estate Leasing Agent Spend a Workday?