30 Mixed Use Property Development Interview Questions & Answers
1. Name for me some benefits of mixed use developments.
How to Answer
Company ABC puts a significant focus on the value that their developments offer to their clients and the community. It's vital that you go into your interview with a solid idea of why mixed-use property developments are essential for the community and your clients. Some reasons include:
- They offer a greater variety of single and family housing options when it comes to design and lifestyle.
- They provide more development options in areas that are dense, such as city centers.
- They reduce pollution and traffic by encouraging live/work/play lifestyles.
Be prepared to give the interviewer your ideas on the benefits of mixed-use developments.
1st Answer Example
"There are layers and layers of benefits to mixed-use developments. When it comes to people who work and live in the area, dwellers do not need to commute as often. This factor saves on costs and helps the environment. Next, mixed-use developments are commonly used to revitalize older or underdeveloped areas. These improvements then fuel local economic growth as people become customers for local business owners. Lately, the tax revenue that comes from increased property values is significant."
2nd Answer Example
"I have researched a great deal on mixed-use developments and how they impact communities and the economy. I believe the greatest benefit is how fresh developments can revive forgotten communities. When this revitalization occurs, small business owners, grocers, retailers, and restauranteurs all benefit from more business and new customers."
2. Competition in the mixed-use development industry is gaining momentum every day. What sets Company ABC apart from our local competitors?
How to Answer
The hiring authority needs to see that you have done your homework when it comes to the competitive landscape of mixed-use development in your region. Take a look at the Company ABC website, look for times they have been in the news or won any awards for exceptional work. Perhaps they stand out by longevity, how much they give back to the community or the number of 5-star reviews present online.
1st Answer Example
"You are the longest-running developer in this region when it comes to downtown projects that promote luxury live/work opportunities. I appreciate the fact that you give so much back to the community, including the hours that your teams invest in charities such as Habitat for Humanity every year. I am excited to join such a seasoned team of thoughtful professionals in the development industry."
2nd Answer Example
"What sets Company ABC apart are the hundreds of positive reviews I read online from happy customers! Your office, retail, and living spaces are beautiful, and the feedback is consistent; you produce high-quality apartments and townhouses that people can afford while still providing exceptional amenities."
3. Talk to me about the project volume you are accustomed to handling.
How to Answer
It's a good idea to go into your interview with a sense of the volume of projects that you would be handling; should you be the successful candidate. The Company ABC website should give you some idea of the number of projects they complete every year. If the answer is not there, it's okay to ask!
Take note of your busiest times in past jobs, and come prepared to discuss the type of work volume that you have managed in the past.
1st Answer Example
"I read on your website that you develop around five new mixed-use projects per year, which is a very significant volume. Company ABC has developed some of my favorite buildings in a variety of neighborhoods across the city, and I look forward to contributing to those projects. I currently manage one development project at a time, which averages around 40 residential units and six for-lease commercial spaces. I am confident that I can take hold of the project volume here with full competency."
2nd Answer Example
"As a recent graduate who is also completing my final internship, I am accustomed to a large volume of work. Currently, I handle important paperwork and communication for a 70-unit residential building as the intern and assistant to the senior leasing agent. In addition to this, I carry a full-time course load and am earning exceptional grades. Could you tell me more about the project volume that you handle and the workload for this specific role?"
4. How do you remain on top of changing market conditions when it comes to the sale and lease of commercial and residential property?
How to Answer
The hiring authority wants to know where you get your information from, and which resources you turn to when you want to be in-the-know on industry trends and happenings. Your market will change regularly, and part of your role working for a mixed-use property developer is to know how these market changes will impact your clients, employer, and prospects. If you are new to the industry, it's okay to ask for resource recommendations!
1st Answer Example
"I subscribe to a few industry podcasts for overall global news related to property development and real estate. I read the local newspaper daily for clues on what is happening in various communities around me. Also, I rely on my network and industry events to stay in-the-know on new developments and legislation in my area."
2nd Answer Example
"I am very open to suggestions on how to stay in tune with what's happening in the property development industry in our region. At the moment, I read online magazines such as Urban Developer and Land Developer Global."
5. Do you have experience leading teams of contractors or tradespeople? If so, how many, and under what job descriptions?
How to Answer
The answer to this question should be straightforward for you. List for the interviewer how many people you have led, what their job titles were, and a bit about yourself as a leader. If you do not have leadership experience, lean on an example of a time when you led others without leadership being a formal requirement of the job.
1st Answer Example
"I have led teams of up to 25 people; including general contractors, plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and junior project managers. I take pride in being a communicative leader who expresses deadlines and clear expectations from the start. My strength is in gaining buy-in from the team as a whole, ensuring a harmonious work environment with a focus on safety."
2nd Answer Example
"I am new to my career, so my leadership responsibilities have not been formal; however, I do tend to take on a leadership style role in a group setting. Even while attending university, I had a keen ability to keep teams working well together on major group-based projects. I look forward to gaining even more leadership experience with Company ABC and, one day, leading a team of my own here."
6. How do you manage your projects and all the moving parts that come along with new developments?
How to Answer
This question is your opportunity to show off your exceptional organizational and multi-tasking skills! Talk to the hiring authority about the number of projects that you have on the go, and how you keep track of it all. Assure the interviewer that you are well-organized and capable of handling a significant volume of work. If you are new to your career, you can lean on the fact that you had many projects and assignments on the go while attending post-secondary studies.
1st Answer Example
"I manage my projects through the use of a team-based project management system called Trello. Do you use a similar tool here at Company ABC? When given a new project to start, I plug in all the information, files, deadlines, and requirements into Trello so that everything is in one place. From the big picture to the finer details that come with the mixed-use property development industry, myself and my team can easily access it all."
2nd Answer Example
"While in university, I became a huge fan of prioritization, using the calendar on my smartphone and color-coding tasks according to urgency. I plan to use a similar style of project organization here at Company ABC, to help me stay on top of every important project detail."
7. Walk me through your education, and how it will help you in this role with Company ABC.
How to Answer
An education in construction, property management, or real estate may not be a requirement at Company ABC but related education is always a bonus. Your training may be in the form of a formal degree, online coursework, workshops, or certifications. If your educational background is not related to the industry, take some time to think about the ways that your training will translate to this particular position.
1st Answer Example
"I have a Bachelor of Science in Construction Project Management from XYZ University. My courses focused on communication and presentation skills, technical mathematics, materials and methods of construction, and project cost estimation. I was top of my class in most of the technical coursework and found that to be my specialty. This education has helped me to carve out a very successful career in the mixed-use property development space."
2nd Answer Example
"My formal education is in Business Analysis. Although not specific to construction, property development, or real estate; my knowledge is still highly transferable. Valuable coursework comes in the form of math, research, and engineering topics. If you require specific construction-related coursework, I am happy to add this to my career plan."
8. Business owners and home buyers often expect service on weekends and evenings. Are you available to work outside of a typical 9-5 schedule?
How to Answer
In the real estate development industry, work hours often occur outside of 'the norm,' and the interviewer wants to see that you can deliver what they need from you despite an irregular schedule.
Talk about times when you have worked outside of the usual 9-5. Be sure to mention any restrictions that you may have, while positioning them as a positive rather than a negative.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that the property development industry often works out of the typical 9-5 schedule. I am happy to be available when needed; either by my leadership, my clients, contractors, or vendors and suppliers. In my current position, I do have the freedom to come and go to ensure my kids are picked up from school and brought home. With that said, I keep my work cell on 24/7 and am always just a phone call away."
2nd Answer Example
"Being new to my career, I am more than happy to work any hours required of me; whether that be weekends, evenings, or holidays. I completely understand that clients often work during the day so they may need to make calls or site visits outside of typical hours."
9. If hired at Company ABC, how will you source new sales and leasing opportunities?
How to Answer
Ideally, developers will have their units pre-sold, or leasing agreements in place while projects are still in development. It's essential that no space remains empty by the time a mixed-use property is fully developed.
Company ABC wants to know if you have a sales or marketing plan in mind for the times when there is space available in a development; whether that be residential or commercial space.
Go to your interview prepared with some ideas on how you will make an impact shortly after being hired. In the development and real estate realm, there are plenty of ways for you to drum up new clients and opportunities. Discuss how you will be a success story, from the start!
1st Answer Example
"If Company ABC hires me, I will source new sales opportunities by first warm calling the leads that have gone dry in the past three months. From there, I will ask for referrals from happy clients of the past. Some other marketing strategies of mine include strategic social media posts to garner interest from your target customer demographic."
2nd Answer Example
"I am well versed in online and social media marketing, so I plan to begin a social media account focused on the design and beauty that Company ABC delivers with each development. I will also comb through the company CRM to uncover potential prospects and leads that have gone cold in the past few weeks."
10. Do you have experience creating or managing a marketing plan for establishing new customer relationships?
How to Answer
If you are applying to a sales or marketing role with Company ABC, chances are you have some experience with marketing plans for building new customer interest in the property development space. Discuss the knowledge you bring in generating new leads, and the part you have played in sales and marketing plans.
If you do not have experience in creating a marketing plan or working within one, be sure to mention that you are here to learn and grow. Enthusiasm will be the key to a successful response for you.
1st Answer Example
"I have around seven years of experience in sales and marketing with a focus on new client development. For most of my career, I have been in business development, creating plans for customer attraction and prospecting. I am excellent in managing marketing plans, which includes analyzing the ROI of the approaches that I put into motion."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a recent marketing graduate, so the bulk of my experience is from projects that I put together while obtaining my degree, and the case studies that I immersed myself in, during that time. I am very open to learning new tips and tricks to establishing new customer relationships, increasing revenue, and how a solid marketing plan plays a role in achieving those goals."
11. How do you approach networking and reaching out to local realtors?
How to Answer
This question is hyper-targeted to your specific approach in networking. Show the interviewer that you have a keen interest in growing your local network, which will only increase your success with Company ABC.
If you do not have experience in networking, because you are new to your career, you can answer this question hypothetically. Be sure to display an understanding of the fact that networking is key to success in the property development industry.
1st Answer Example
"My preferred approach for networking and reaching out to local realtors includes cold calling and attending industry events. I am an outgoing person and find that I make the most meaningful connections when I am on the phone or face to face with someone, versus sending them a stale email! I am an active part of the sales network in our area, and look forward to bringing my connections with me when I join the Company ABC team."
2nd Answer Example
"I did some networking when looking for an internship in the property development sector. I joined ABC Builders Group and met some wonderful people who were willing to help me get a great start in my career. If hired at Company ABC I will continue to attend industry events. If you have recommendations for me, that would be great. I am eager to jump on new opportunities to network."
12. Tell me about your experience working alongside sales, leasing, and project managers.
How to Answer
The purpose of this question is to uncover your ability to work cross-departmentally or cross-functionally. The property development industry requires all hands on deck to complete a project successfully so, Company ABC needs to be very mindful of hiring only team players.
If you do not have experience working collaboratively, or if you come from a very independent work environment, that is okay too. Discuss how you are looking forward to working in a team-focused environment and how your personality and characteristics work well in team environments.
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I work alongside two project managers at all times. I also collaborate with our architects and designers regularly. Everything we do requires a high level of communication and organization. I completely understand the importance of collaborating with all stakeholders in these high-level property development projects."
2nd Answer Example
"My jobs have all been highly independent; but I have still answered to supervisors across a variety of departments including sales, legal, project managers, and leasing agents. What makes me a great team player is that I communicate often and clearly. I am a good listener who takes direction very well, and I am self-aware, ensuring that I do not overstep in my role. I am here to learn and collaborate."
13. Do you have experience giving property tours?
How to Answer
As a professional in the mixed-use property development, you understand that property tours are essential because they allow agents to gain knowledge on the currently available inventory for commercial or home properties. Property tours show off what your company is completing, and is a way to entice new buyers, and business owners to invest in your development. Discuss any experience you have facilitating tours. If you are new to your career, be sure to express your willingness to learn and be trained in how to lead a tour properly.
1st Answer Example
"I have given many property tours in my career and enjoy doing them as well. Conducting property tours allows immersion in conversations that I may not have had otherwise. I can get to know people, gauge their interest, and build rapport with interested parties."
2nd Answer Example
"I understand the importance of property tours, and that they can happen at a few stages of development. I have been learning more about virtual tours as well, in hopes of staying up to date on the latest trends in the industry. I look forward to learning more at Company ABC and eventually conducting tours of my own."
14. This role requires you to understand property management, operations, marketing, and leasing. Walk me through your knowledge and experience in each of these areas.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to ensure that you have a good understanding of the many facets of Company ABC. In the property development industry, you will likely have exposure to business activities surrounding the management, operations, marketing, and leasing of mixed-use properties.
If you have experience in these areas, take the time to walk the interviewer through your career, expressing your level of expertise through a 1-10 scale or ranking your level of understanding from beginner to intermediate, advanced, or expert.
If you do not have experience in these topics, be sure to remind the interviewer that you are newer to your career, but you are keen on research and learning new skills.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked in real estate for twelve years; three of those years specifically in commercial leasing and the other nine in residential sales. My career path offers a great balance of the skills you seek at Company ABC. I have an advanced understanding of property management, operations, marketing, and sales and leasing. I am eager to take on a variety of tasks here, should I be your ideal candidate."
2nd Answer Example
"My understanding of property development topics is limited; however, I have been doing some studying on sales and leasing, and marketing for mixed-use properties since I applied to this role. Should Company ABC hire me, you will find that I am a fast learner and a great researcher. I will always find the answers needed to perform my job to the best of my ability."
15. Do you have a solid understanding of architectural documents and tools such as blueprints and models?
How to Answer
As a mixed-use property developer, Company ABC will have employee expectations that include the ability to read basic blueprints or understand simple models. Of course, you don't need to be an architect! But you should have a basic ability to hold your own in client or internal meetings, through property tours, or with pre-sale activities.
Discuss with the interviewer your exposure to architectural documents and models. If you are new to your career, express your willingness to learn more before beginning your role with Company ABC.
1st Answer Example
"I have had exposure to blueprints and models for many years, having sold condo developments in the past. I am very confident in my ability to understand the architectural documents shown to me in this position and, if there is a factor that I do not know, I will quickly learn what I need. The topics I am best versed in include blueprint symbols and abbreviations, interpreting 2D views of 3D objects, and using the information found in these models and drawings to create an overall picture of a development project."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently enrolled in a course at my local college called 'Blueprint Reading Basics.' In this four week course, I will learn about the types of drawings used during the design process, print reading, standardized blueprint symbols, and abbreviations for residential and commercial buildings."
16. What does the 'live, shop, work, play' lifestyle mean to you?
How to Answer
It's time to show the interviewer that you have an understanding, and an appreciation, for what mixed-use properties bring to the table. You understand that many people, perhaps yourself included, appreciate the fact that they can live in an area surrounded by buzz, locally-owned businesses, people who can walk and bike to work, and then enjoy the outdoor spaces when the work is done. Give a genuine and heartfelt response to what the 'live, shop, work, play' lifestyle means to you.
1st Answer Example
"I have seen many communities in our city shift to the 'live, shop, work, play' lifestyle and I greatly appreciate what these developments do to boost the areas where they are built. The freedom that these developments offer for business owners and dwellers alike is terrific. The concept helps with environmental sustainability as studies show that mixed-use developments encourage more walking and biking as opposed to driving. Flexible spaces are economical and land efficient as well. I believe that with mixed-use developments, everyone wins."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently moved into a Company ABC development, and I wouldn't change it for the world! I get to walk out of my lobby and grab breakfast at a family-owned bakery and coffee shop. I can zip down the bike path to nearly any activity I choose. The 'live, shop, work, play' lifestyle is one that I appreciate not only because of what I can do so close to home but also for what the development has done to revitalize the community and boost previously struggling businesses."
17. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
The mixed-use property development industry can be competitive, and generally attracts people who enjoy a challenge and recognition when they do something great. The interviewer would like to know how they can recognize you at Company ABC when the time comes. Perhaps you enjoy financial perks, kind words, added responsibilities, or title promotions. Share with the interviewer how you would like recognition for your hard work.
1st Answer Example
"I am a highly competitive person who is compensation driven. I like to see recognition for my accomplishments through monetary bonus' or contests where the stakes are high. In my current role, I have earned awards such as an iPad, gift certificates, and financial bonus' for sales made. These are all excellent ways to recognize my accomplishments."
2nd Answer Example
"I feel best when I know how my hard work has positively impacted another person. In the property development industry that can be helping someone find the best office space in the area, where they can enjoy a great live/work/play balance."
18. When have you worked with someone opposite of your personality or work style? How did you make the partnership work?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to understand if you are a team player and someone who can work with a variety of personalities. Everyone's work style is unique, and it's crucial that this doesn't stop you from being a great collaborator!
Discuss a project you were working on and the ways your work styles differed from your teammate. Maybe they were disorganized when you are tidy and in control. Perhaps they fretted over the small details when you're a big-picture thinker.
Whatever the situation, explain how you came together to conquer the project. Show the interviewer that you are capable of giving merit to different working styles, even if they do not match your own.
1st Answer Example
"I approach work by scheduling meetings in advance and having a list of items to review at the start of each day. My peer was rarely prepared for meetings, spent a great deal of time talking about personal items, and operated in reaction mode to many situations. I took it upon myself to speak to that person about our different styles and come to an agreement on how we could work best together. I am open to working with all types of people and welcome challenges with a smile!"
2nd Answer Example
"My current boss approaches work very differently than I. She is great with closing deals but is a tornado in meetings where I am highly organized but not as sales driven. One day over lunch, we talked about our working styles, and what drives us. This conversation led us to brainstorm ways that our styles could complement each other in the workplace. We worked together much more cohesively after that conversation."
19. Tell me about a career related goal that you set and did not reach.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you are ambitious but also able to recover when you do not reach your career goals as expected. Tell the interviewer about a goal you set for yourself, but failed to meet. Show Company ABC your ambitious side and that, rather than giving up, you are going to try to achieve that goal again. Everyone has goals they have failed to reach, so do not be embarrassed to talk about past perceived failures. The interviewer is more interested in knowing that you are persistent and tenacious.
1st Answer Example
"This past year, I wanted to double my sales, earning a commission check of $80,000. I worked very hard by making additional cold calls, doubling up on my client touchpoints, and being available for my clients 24/7. In the end, I did not reach my goal. However, I did beat my quota by 40%, which was still an excellent achievement. I aim to achieve my goal for next year by incorporating more marketing materials and opportunities for property tours."
2nd Answer Example
"I set a goal to receive a promotion to property manager last year. I did not get the promotion; rather, they transferred an existing manager from an alternate location. It was a disappointment, but I understood their side. It's often easier to transfer than to train a new person. To overcome this obstacle, I am seeking a new role with an organization like Company ABC where there are more growth opportunities present."
20. Why are you the best candidate for Company ABC?
How to Answer
It can feel unnatural to brag about yourself, but when the interviewer asks this type of question, there is no better time to highlight what makes you the top choice for Company ABC. Discuss the characteristics and career accomplishments have made you a star in the past. Perhaps you have received some academic awards or have been given individual accolades in your most recent position. There is nobody like you, and now you need to express that to the interviewer!
1st Answer Example
"When I read your job posting I smiled from ear to ear because it was as though you had written it with me in mind. I know that I am the best candidate for this role because I have eight years of exceeding my sales goals, residential and commercial real estate sales experience, and I know the local market inside and out. These factors make me ideally positioned to help Company ABC continue to succeed in this region."
2nd Answer Example
"Although I am new to my career, I believe my success with Company ABC will come from the soft skills that you are looking for, including great communication and research abilities. I learned a lot about communication and research while obtaining my business degree and look forward to putting these skills to work for you."
21. How do you handle communicating bad news to a client, such as a delay in project timelines?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you can adequately handle being the bearer of bad news now and then. One of the toughest parts of communication can be delivering bad news to your clients and other stakeholders. Whether it is discussing a delay in project timelines or other hiccups in the development process such as budgetary issues, delivering bad news doesn't come easy. Assure the interviewer that you can handle this type of task in a transparent, concise, and professional manner.
1st Answer Example
"I sure hope to deliver disappointing news rarely; however, I understand that this happens from time to time. When I do give bad news to a client, I respect the fact that they will want me to give it to them straight. I will be honest and clear in my communication, avoiding any cliches or terms that sugarcoat the situation. It's best my client knows exactly what the issue is so that we can continue a relationship built on trust and honesty."
2nd Answer Example
"I have found that communicating with respect and the intent to support the client is the best approach. It is important to communicate what parts of the project are off track and what resources are available to get the project back on track."
22. What do you know about the workplace culture at Company ABC?
How to Answer
The hiring authority wants to know that you have researched Company ABC and their complete offering before your interview. Workplace culture is a critical factor when considering a career move. Assure the interviewer that you have put thought, research, and consideration into how their culture will fit into your needs.
1st Answer Example
"I have researched Company ABC through LinkedIn, Instagram, and on Glassdoor. Your employees have great things to say, and overall, it seems that you have fun while you work. I am looking forward to joining an organization, like yours, that is upbeat and thoughtful with an eye on developing and giving back to the community at the same time."
2nd Answer Example
"I know that you have a great reputation with your clients and that you treat your staff very well. I have a friend who interned with Company ABC last year, and she said it was one of the best opportunities she could have asked for, coming right out of university."
23. How did you bring value to your most recent position?
How to Answer
Company ABC needs to know that if hired, you will bring your best work and talents to the office every single day! The interviewer wants to hear more about your recent successes and bragging points.
Think of the top skills you apply in your current job and any accolades you have received lately. Perhaps you influenced changes that saved the company money. Maybe you were the top-grossing salesperson last year. Think of your strengths in action! If you are reliable, talk about how consistent your work has been and how you are in constant support of your coworkers. If you have a strong work ethic, share how you accomplished a project amid harsh obstacles.
If you are new to your career, you can talk about any value you have brought to a volunteer position, a team sport, or a group project at university.
1st Answer Example
"As a top-grossing lease agent, I bring immense financial value to my current company. I've been among the top three agents since starting in the role. I also helped create a community group within the organization that spearheads volunteer efforts on behalf of our development company. This effort has greatly increased our exposure and reputation in the region as a mixed-use property developer."
2nd Answer Example
"I care deeply about delivering value to the group projects that I am a part of in my university coursework. I work hard to understand the goals of the group so that I can position my talents to serve the group best. This approach is one I plan to bring to Company ABC as well."
24. Tell me about a development project you worked on where a conventional approach was not suitable.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know about a particular development project you have worked on where your creativity was required, and a conventional approach was not the answer. Explain how you have implemented creativity in the workplace, and what the outcome was. Display for the hiring manager how you can think outside of the box when necessary, benefitting Company ABC if hired.
1st Answer Example
"When the economy fell, a lot of developers and business owners were struggling. At that time, a conventional approach was to take out new ads on the radio or TV. Social media was starting to become a major advertising outlet - and it was free. I launched a social media campaign that was very successful. We were able to generate new business by advertising free leases for three months, on two-year contracts. The message spread quickly, and we saved thousands upon thousands of dollars on our advertising budget."
2nd Answer Example
"I was on a developers' marketing team for my internship; where we had to alter our processes to meet our customer's environmental impact challenge. We had to completely change the way we built their advertising plan, keeping zero waste in mind. It was a fun challenge, and I learned a lot about sustainability in engineering and design."
25. How do you feel about saying no to a client with unreasonable requests?
How to Answer
Real estate and property development are very customer-focused industries as they rely heavily on reputation, referrals, and repeat business. The interviewer wants to know where you draw the line when it comes to outlandish requests or needs that you cannot deliver.
Give an example of a time when you had to say no to a client or prospect. Assure the interviewer that you are happy to accommodate any Company ABC client within reason! Complete your answer by solidifying the fact that you put your clients first.
1st Answer Example
"Many of my clients think that I perform miracles overnight, especially when it comes to contract changes and special requests. I once had a client tell me they needed a guarantee that they would double their revenue if they moved their store to one of our new builds. Of course, I could not promise anything like that. What I did do, in exchange, was offered them a month of free rent so that they could put more funds into marketing as they amped up for their move. The client was happy in the end and signed a four-year lease."
2nd Answer Example
"Clients who demand the impossible are not the ones that I try to attract or keep if I can be frank. I love when clients have special requests and innovative ideas that I can bring to the attention of my head office; however, demanding something unreasonable is a different story. I had a client once demand that I fly to their city for a face to face meeting the next day if I wanted to keep the account. They were a challenging account with minimal spend. My director said no, I could not. So, I let the client know that I was happy with Skype or book them in when I was in their city next. They refused and fired me. They were not an ideal client, and I quickly recovered because I continued to put my best efforts towards my honest and loyal existing client base."
26. Are you applying for a job with any Company ABC competitors?
How to Answer
The world of property developers can be a small one, so the interviewer would like to know if they will need to compete with other companies, let alone their local competitors when it comes to hiring you.
Tell the interviewer about your search so far without disclosing every single detail. Answer this question with a balance between creating some urgency in the interviewer, and not divulging every aspect of your job search. Be sure to solidify your interest in Company ABC as well.
1st Answer Example
"It's safe to say that it's a candidate's market right now, with so many available opportunities in the commercial and mixed-use property development industry. With that said, I am only applying to the best roles with companies with which I can grow. I look forward to further discussing your opportunity here at Company ABC."
2nd Answer Example
"I am in the process of exploring opportunities with property developers that appeal to me; however, I am selective on where my applications go. I am very excited about this particular opportunity with Company ABC because of your solid reputation and amazing mixed-use developments that are transforming our city. I look forward to the next round of interviews."
27. What are your strengths, as they relate to the property development industry?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know more about what makes you great at your job. The strengths you mention can be skills or qualities that help you overcome difficult circumstances or accomplish challenging tasks in the property development industry. These skills help you to effectively manage projects, understand client needs, and help you make deals happen!
Try to talk about unique strengths, staying away from the typical answers such as 'organized,' 'good communicator' and 'multitasker.' A hum-drum answer to this question could cost you the job.
Talk to the interviewer about a couple of your unique and stand-out strengths and why those will help you to be successful in this role. Tie these strengths into the qualities mentioned in the Company ABC job posting, for an even stronger response!
1st Answer Example
"I believe my greatest strength lies in my analytical and creative mind. I have worked to cultivate my creativity and apply it to my work in the property development industry. Understanding this business from project management but also creative aspect sets me apart in a unique way, as others tend to either be creative or analytical."
2nd Answer Example
"My strongest skills that help me daily are my people skills, and the ability to close a sale without being pushy. I relate to the client, get to know them and their needs, build excellent rapport, and can make solid buying and leasing recommendations that suit them. They happily buy and then send valuable referrals."
28. Compensation aside, what perks do you want to see from Company ABC?
How to Answer
Company ABC wants to know what type of financial or workplace perks would motivate you to accept a job offer. Be prepared to offer the interviewer some direction on what is important to you. Aspects that you could mention include:
- Health and dental benefits
- Work-life balance
- Workplace culture
- Opportunities for growth
- Continued education opportunities
- Property discounts!
1st Answer Example
"In this role, I will be in and out with clients, performing property tours, and conducting market assessments so, for me, the room for creativity and a flexible workspace is significant. This flex could include an open office where it's easy to collaborate or the ability to work from home when needed."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a recent university graduate so, what is most valuable to me, even above total compensation, are education and learning opportunities. I want to grow in the property development industry, and further education would be beneficial."
29. I would enjoy some insight into what makes you unique. Tell me something about yourself that is not on your resume.
How to Answer
Although this question may not have much to do with the duties of this job, the purpose of this question is for the interviewer to assess if you are a fit for the team and culture at Company ABC. You are under no obligation to talk about your relationship status or kids. Instead, stick with the fun facts that will make you memorable, and show some personality! At the end of your response, try to tie in how this hobby or interest compliments your career.
1st Answer Example
"I am taking wine training to become a hobbyist sommelier. So far, I have completed my WSET level 2 and am onto my third level shortly. I am specializing in French wines. It's been a fun hobby of mine for a few years now, and I am building a wine collection of my own. I find that many of my clients are wine enthusiasts, so this hobby also helps me to make common ground with the people I come across at work."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a big fan of learning new languages! So far, I am fluent in English, Spanish, French, and Italian. Next, I am set to learn Mandarin, which will be an incredible challenge. I believe these languages will also be beneficial to me in my career as there will be fewer language barriers with international clients."
30. What attracts you the most to this position with Company ABC?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know what you will enjoy most in this particular position with Company ABC. A great 'fit' should go two ways, so the interviewer wants to be sure that they will offer you what you need, and that everyone's expectations are well-aligned.
To best assess this, you can look at a few factors:
- Do the day to day activities stimulate you?
- Does the position push your skill level and offer a challenge?
- Does the job require you to do enough of the tasks that you love most?
- Is the company well established; offering you job security?
- Do you like the person to whom you would be reporting?
- Are there opportunities present for career growth and advancement?
- Do you like the overall vibe of the location and office?
- Will you be able to stand behind their product confidently?
1st Answer Example
"What attracts me most to this particular position is the job security offered at Company ABC. Despite severe economic downturns, your company has maintained strength and integrity. I am confident that I would have an opportunity for exponential growth, should I be your chosen candidate."
2nd Answer Example
"This position is interesting to me because it would grow the skills that I started to develop while obtaining my business degree. The past few years, I have been developing my knowledge of real estate, property development, economics, and infrastructure. This role seems to be a happy blend of all these topics."