Being an apartment leasing agent in Texas makes a lot of sense given that more households are renting now than at any point in the previous 50 years. It can also be a good stepping stone for people who are new to real estate and want to hit the ground running
How to Become a Leasing Agent
What does a leasing agent do?
To sell apartments on the properties they represent, leasing agents collaborate closely with tenants. After a tenant moves in, the leasing agent keeps in touch with them by providing individualized service and responding to any inquiries they may have about the rental or unit. They may handle maintenance requests, examine prospective tenants, and gather rent payments for the landlord or property manager to receive. Other common job duties of a leasing agent include:
What is a leasing agent?
A leasing agent is a real estate industry expert who collects rent, advertises rental properties, and provides tenants with customer service on behalf of property management firms or landlords. They work closely with tenants looking for new housing by arranging tours, handling applications, and managing lease agreements. Leasing agents typically employ their extensive real estate and marketing knowledge to sell the ideal rental properties to clients based on their requirements and preferences.
Leasing agent salary
To succeed as a leasing agent, you must have excellent interpersonal, customer service, and communication skills because you will frequently interact with and help tenants before, during, and after they move in. You should be well-versed in each unit, the property’s amenities and the local businesses, as well as any crime statistics or population figures, as tenants may have questions about both the property and the neighborhood.
Other skills impressive leasing agents should hold include:
How to become a leasing agent
Excellent leasing agents should have in-depth knowledge of the real estate sector, which they can acquire by obtaining the necessary permits, degrees, and certifications. Follow these steps to become a successful leasing agent:
1. Pursue an education
A bachelor’s degree can make your resume stand out, even though most employers still prefer applicants with at least a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Additionally, it can give you the fundamental business, sales, or real estate knowledge you need to advance your career.
You might also think about enrolling in a few online courses to learn the fundamentals of some real estate or marketing concepts. Additionally, there are educational institutions that offer certificates in fields like leasing and property management. Consider taking courses in writing residential reports, fair housing laws, real estate management principles, real estate market analysis, or sales.
2. Receive your leasing license
In many states, leasing agents must obtain a leasing license in order to legally work in that field. Before applying for a job, check your state’s requirements to see if you need a license. Even if your state does not require a license, you should still think about getting one. Some businesses may require a license. Listing this license on your resume can help you stand out from the competition even if it is not required. Specific leasing license requirements can vary depending on your state.
All leasing license applicants must complete a course that can usually be finished in a few days. Some programs demand that you pass a test, for which they frequently offer preparation materials Real estate appraisal, human resources, business law, local real estate laws, real estate finance, and business economics may be covered in the course and exam.
Basic requirements to earn your leasing license typically include:
3. Gain on-the-job training
Apply for leasing agent positions at commercial, industrial, or residential properties once you have been given the go-ahead to legally practice in your state. During your first few days on the job, you might observe a leasing agent to gain a better understanding of the business and the industry. Ask a lot of questions about the property and the neighborhood so you have enough knowledge to help each tenant individually when you begin doing so.
4. Earn your certification
Consider obtaining a certification to advance your credentials and knowledge after working as a full-time leasing agent for a few years. The National Apartment Leasing Professional (NALP) certification and the Building Owners and Management Association (BOMA) certification are two impressive certifications to obtain. Research the prerequisites for each of these certifications in advance because they may differ.
Both of these certifications call for you to finish a specific number of coursework hours, and they may also include an exam where you can demonstrate your newly acquired knowledge of leasing. While the BOMA typically requires at least three to five years of relevant experience, the NALP certification typically requires at least six months of leasing agent experience.
FAQ
How do I start a career in leasing?
- Step #1: Meet the Requirements to Become a Leasing Agent.
- Step #2: Enroll in an Accredited Real Estate School. …
- Step #3: Collect All 3 Real Estate Certificates. …
- Step #4: Schedule and Pass the California Real Estate Exam.
Is being a leasing agent worth it?
The ability to manage your own income is one of the best aspects of working as a leasing consultant because your pay will correspond to the amount of work you put in. The majority of apartment leasing consultants also receive sales commissions on top of a competitive hourly wage. It’s a means of controlling your own financial situation.
How do I become a good leasing agent?
- possess a thorough understanding of the neighborhood and area where they work
- Know basic real estate and multifamily terminology.
- Have an understanding of Fair Housing laws.
- Be able to communicate clearly with both the community team and potential residents.
What is the difference between a leasing agent and leasing consultant?
The distinction between a leasing agent and a leasing consultant is that the former finds tenants for their clients’ rental properties and manages the lease signing, while the latter gives clients advice on the range of available rentals.
