Most larger apartment communities have a property manager and a leasing agent. Though technically lower on the authority scale, the leasing agent has a hefty load of responsibilities, all of which determine the overall success of the property.
Leasing agents have to sell
The job description of the leasing agent (or leasing professional) has some commonalities with that of a property manager, but are perhaps even more intense because leasing agents are typically the first face prospects see when they visit a property. Typically, they are paid a lower hourly rate with a commission incentive. So, leasing agents must keep track of all vacant, occupied, and pre-leased units, ensuring that occupancy is high throughout the year. Essentially, the leasing agent must sell.
Learning the best features of an apartment community and emphasizing them to prospects is the best way for agents to lease apartments and earn commission. Whereas residential real estate agents might work with one or two clients a week, leasing agents are working on rentals with 10-15 prospects a day.
However the property looks, the leasing agent must highlight the good and, in some cases, hide the bad. Often agents will buy props and everyday items to “stage” units in need of a tenant. Placing scented candles on surfaces and flowers over stains. The idea is to show the tenant what the place could look like, and provide inspiration.
Using a website to make work easier
Sounds like a lot of work? It is. But, there is one big thing that can ease the workload and increase occupancy: the property’s website.
A great-looking website, like the kind you find at Rentbot, is the leasing agent’s best friend. A hard-working website can make life so much simpler by providing quality leads, taking online applications and deposits, and allowing prospects to view available floor plans.
For the apartment shopper and the leasing agent, a website that displays the best features of a community creates a better working relationship and less time is wasted. This means the leasing agent doesn’t have to use precious time showing units to prospects who won’t find what they want. It also means the prospect will have a better first experience because they are prepared with research from the website. Interested prospects can go home and fill out an easy online application rather than being rushed to complete one in the office or risk loosing a unit.
The job of a leasing agent is tough, and the apartment shopping experience can be even tougher. But, with a website that highlights the best features of the property, handles rent, and accepts applications, you can have a best friend any leasing agent could ask for.
About the Author
Jacquelyn Trimper joined the Rentbot team in 2014 after surviving 4 years in property management and marketing. She loves marketing, sales, and writing to help apartment owners and property managers.