Residential Leasing Agent Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the thriving real estate industry, the significance of residential leasing agents has never been more emphasized.

As the market evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can negotiate, manage, and secure our residential spaces amplifies.

But let’s break it down: What’s really expected from a residential leasing agent?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to draft the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply intrigued by the dynamics of residential leasing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable residential leasing agent job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Residential Leasing Agent Duties and Responsibilities

Residential Leasing Agents have an array of tasks related to the rental of residential properties such as apartments, homes or condominiums.

They act as the intermediary between landlords and prospective tenants, ensuring a smooth leasing process.

Residential Leasing Agents have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Advertise and market vacant properties to attract tenants
• Conduct property showings to prospective tenants
• Screen potential tenants by reviewing their applications, credit histories, and references
• Negotiate rental terms and conditions in line with landlords’ instructions
• Prepare and facilitate the signing of residential lease agreements
• Collect security deposits and rent payments
• Address tenant complaints and concerns and escalate them to the property manager when necessary
• Ensure compliance with fair housing laws and regulations
• Maintain records of all rental activities
• Coordinate property maintenance and repair needs with the appropriate service providers

 

Residential Leasing Agent Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a professional and customer service-oriented Residential Leasing Agent to join our team.

The Residential Leasing Agent will assist potential and existing tenants with property viewings, lease terms and negotiations, and paperwork completion.

The ideal candidate has a passion for real estate, a friendly demeanor, and a knack for sales.

This role requires familiarity with lease agreements and property management, as well as an understanding of the residential rental market and property advertising.

Ultimately, the role of the Residential Leasing Agent is to ensure our properties are fully rented, tenant relations are managed effectively, and the property rental process is handled in a legal and professional manner.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide information about the properties and terms of occupancy to prospective tenants
• Conduct property tours and show available properties to potential tenants
• Negotiate lease terms and complete lease agreements
• Perform background checks and verify references of potential tenants
• Collect security deposits, rent, and any other applicable fees
• Address and promptly resolve tenant complaints
• Advertise available properties using a variety of media and promotional materials
• Ensure all properties are well-maintained and oversee necessary repairs or improvements
• Stay current with real estate market and rental property laws and regulations

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Residential Leasing Agent or similar role in property management
• Knowledge of real estate law and leasing practices
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and property management software
• Strong customer service skills with a polite and professional demeanor
• High school diploma; BSc degree in real estate or similar field is a plus
• Real Estate Agent or Property Manager license may be required

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Commission opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Residential Leasing Agent
• Work Environment: Office setting with frequent travel to various property locations. Some weekend and evening hours may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Property Manager or Leasing Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum plus commissions
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Residential Leasing Agent Do?

Residential Leasing Agents are real estate professionals who specialize in promoting and leasing residential properties, such as apartments, houses, and condominiums.

They work for property management companies, real estate agencies, or as self-employed individuals.

Their primary role is to market and lease properties to prospective tenants.

They meet with prospective tenants to show them properties, discuss lease terms, and answer any questions they may have.

They are also responsible for negotiating lease agreements, ensuring both parties are satisfied with the terms.

Residential Leasing Agents are also involved in the application process, where they review prospective tenants’ rental history, credit score, and employment status to determine their suitability.

Additionally, they ensure that the properties they represent are well maintained and ready for move-in.

This may involve coordinating with maintenance personnel to address any repairs or improvements that need to be made.

They also have to be knowledgeable about the current real estate market, local laws concerning property rental, and landlord-tenant rights.

This knowledge enables them to effectively manage properties, set competitive rental rates, and ensure all leasing activities comply with relevant laws and regulations.

In some cases, Residential Leasing Agents may also be tasked with collecting rent and other fees, resolving tenant complaints, and overseeing eviction processes if necessary.

 

Residential Leasing Agent Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Residential Leasing Agent should have the skills and qualifications that align with the requirements of managing and leasing residential properties, such as:

• Strong knowledge about property management and the real estate industry to provide accurate and comprehensive information to prospective tenants.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for liaising with property owners, prospective tenants, maintenance personnel, and other involved parties.
• Good negotiation skills to agree upon leasing terms that meet the needs of both the tenant and the property owner.
• Attention to detail to ensure all relevant information is correctly recorded in lease agreements.
• Customer service skills to handle inquiries, complaints and provide overall satisfactory service to tenants and property owners.
• Organizational skills for managing multiple properties, scheduling viewings, and maintaining up-to-date records.
• Problem-solving skills to address and resolve issues that may arise during the leasing process.
• Proficiency in using real estate software for property listings, lease drafting, and tracking rent payments.

 

Residential Leasing Agent Experience Requirements

Residential Leasing Agents often start their careers with entry-level positions in property management or real estate firms.

This provides them with a basic understanding of the real estate industry, including property laws, tenancy rights, and marketing strategies.

Candidates might have 1 to 2 years of experience in related roles such as Administrative Assistant in a property management company, Real Estate Assistant, or even Customer Service Representative in a real estate environment.

This would provide them with the necessary knowledge of property leasing and the customer service skills required in this role.

Those with more than 3 years of experience may have solid understanding of leasing laws and regulations, negotiation skills and experience working with various property management software.

They are usually responsible for more complex tasks, such as contract negotiation, property marketing, and tenant screening.

Candidates with over 5 years of experience might have managerial or supervisory experience in their background.

They are often ready to take on more advanced roles like Leasing Manager or Property Manager, overseeing a team of leasing agents and managing multiple properties.

This requires a comprehensive understanding of property management, as well as strong leadership and communication skills.

 

Residential Leasing Agent Education and Training Requirements

Residential Leasing Agents typically require a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum education requirement.

However, many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in business, real estate, or a related field.

Specific training in property management or real estate can be beneficial and is often provided on the job.

This includes understanding property laws, tenant rights, and fair housing regulations.

In addition, many states require Residential Leasing Agents to obtain a real estate license.

This usually involves completing a certain number of real estate courses and passing a licensing exam.

The requirements for licensure vary by state.

Residential Leasing Agents should also possess strong communication and customer service skills as they deal with potential and existing tenants on a daily basis.

While not always required, professional certifications in property management, such as the Certified Apartment Manager (CAM) or Residential Management Professional (RMP) designations, can demonstrate an agent’s commitment to the profession and mastery of the field.

Continuing education is also important in this role to stay updated on changes in real estate laws and market trends.

 

Residential Leasing Agent Salary Expectations

A Residential Leasing Agent earns an average salary of $50,383 (USD) per year.

However, this salary can vary depending on factors such as experience, level of education, geographical location, and the specific real estate market they are working in.

 

Residential Leasing Agent Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Residential Leasing Agent need?

A Residential Leasing Agent must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively deal with potential and existing tenants.

They should be detail-oriented to handle contracts, and must possess strong organizational skills to manage multiple leases simultaneously.

They also need good negotiation skills to close deals and maintain positive relationships.

 

Do Residential Leasing Agents need a degree?

While a degree is not strictly necessary for a Residential Leasing Agent, many employers prefer candidates with a degree in business, real estate, or a related field.

In some locations, Leasing Agents are required to have a real estate license.

This typically involves completing a course and passing a licensing exam.

 

What should you look for in a Residential Leasing Agent resume?

In a Residential Leasing Agent’s resume, look for experience in real estate or property management.

They should have a demonstrated history of successful lease negotiations and tenant relations.

Also, check if they have the necessary licensing or certification.

Skills like communication, negotiation, and customer service should be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good Residential Leasing Agent?

A good Residential Leasing Agent is proactive and customer-focused, always going the extra mile to attract and retain tenants.

They should be personable, able to build and maintain good relationships with both tenants and property owners.

An effective Leasing Agent should also be detail-oriented, ensuring that all lease agreements are correct and in compliance with relevant laws.

 

What is the role of a Residential Leasing Agent in property management?

A Residential Leasing Agent plays a critical role in property management.

They are responsible for advertising vacancies, showing properties to potential tenants, negotiating and drafting lease agreements, and conducting move-in and move-out inspections.

They also serve as the main point of contact for tenants and address their concerns or queries related to the property.

Their role is crucial in maintaining high occupancy rates and ensuring tenant satisfaction.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve pulled back the curtain on what it truly means to be a residential leasing agent.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about signing leases.

It’s about creating a home, one lease at a time.

With our comprehensive residential leasing agent job description template and real-world examples, you’re more than prepared to step up your game.

But why stop there?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for meticulously crafted listings or fine-tuning your resume to sheer perfection.

Bear in mind:

Each lease is a chapter in the story of a home.

Let’s create those homes. Together.

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