How to Design a Real Estate Broker's Office

Photos of happy buyers and successful agents add a personal touch to an office.

A real estate broker's office should be designed in a professional, yet comfortable style. Clients must be able to immediately see current listing information upon entry and be able to sit in comfortable chairs. Purchasing a piece of property is a major investment; the atmosphere of a real estate broker's office should provide a relaxing and organized setting. Most brokers select a real estate-related motif, and decorate with artwork that depicts homes, land or cityscapes. Creating a small area for children is encouraged, as youngsters may tag along with parents and can be entertained with coloring and activity books.

Things You'll Need

• Small flat-screen TV with USB port or digital camera chip slot
• Digital camera chip or USB storage drive
• Small table or stand
• Child-sized table and chairs
• Coloring and activity books
• Storage bin with lid
• Framed artwork or photos
• Display rack
• Home guides or advertisements featuring listings
• Local area guides and information
• Comfortable chairs
• Coat rack
• Umbrella stand
• Desk and matching chair
• Filing cabinets
• Hammer and nails
• Shelves
• Level
• Measuring tape

Instructions

Broker's Work Area

1. 

   Set up the broker's desk, chair and filing cabinets facing the office entrance. Create an open layout with the furniture as space allows.

2. 

   Use a small corner section of the room for the placement of the child-sized table and chairs. Place crayons, coloring and activity books inside a small storage bin under the table.

3. Place the coat and umbrella rack near the door. Clients should be able to place bulky items on the rack so they do not have to hold onto them while conducting business.

4. Put two comfortable chairs facing the broker's desk. The chairs should be large enough to seat larger clients comfortably, without being bulky or too large for the room.

5. Place a display rack featuring issues of publications containing real estate agency listings in a visible space in the office. Clients as well as staff should be able to pick up home guides easily. Informational pamphlets and guides regarding area attractions and services should be included on the display rack. Clients relocating to the area will find such information useful.

6. Set up a small table or stand with a flat-screen television that has a camera card slot or USB port. Place photos of current listings and recently sold properties on a camera card or USB drive. Clients can watch a slide show of both interior and exterior photos of properties and gain insight into properties that match their needs.

7. Purchase real estate-related artwork and decorations to display on office shelves and walls. Photos of sold listings and area attractions create a colorful and interesting wall display. All frames and shelves should match to offer a sleek look and not distract from the display. Use a measuring tape and ruler to hang the artwork straight and with proper spacing. Hammer all nails into the wall before hanging the shelves and artwork.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use strong air fresheners, candles or potpourri in the office; some clients may be sensitive or allergic to such items.

• Make sure to place all license, fair housing and related state-mandated materials in a visible area as required by law.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Realty Times Website
• Active Rain Website for Real Estate Professionals