30 Apartment Leasing Agent Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Apartment Leasing Agent interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. Do you leverage any social media platforms to promote your properties? If so, what approach has worked best for you in the past?
How to Answer
Depending on the region where you work, you will likely embrace social media platforms to highlight and feature your property listings. Talk to the interviewer about your use of social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter to attract new tenants and property owners.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"As a Gen Z individual, I have grown up with social media. I am incredibly comfortable with the concept and can see exactly how a strong social presence would help me to succeed as an Apartment Leasing Agent. Would you say that your most successful agents are ones who embrace the use of social media?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"For the past three years, I have wholeheartedly embraced Instagram to attract clients and tenants alike. I even have a personalized hashtag that I use in every post. I find that my Instagram account gives me more clout and credibility when I am approaching new clients to list their properties with me. This account further positions me as an authority in the leasing space within my region."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
2. How do you handle working in challenging team environments?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you can adapt to working in a team environment, where difficulties may be present. Think about a team-based project that generated successful results but was an overall challenge. Avoid criticizing any individuals you have worked alongside in the past. Discuss the skills you have deployed to ensure a smooth team-based experience.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I recently worked on a group project in school that was worth 40% of my mark. The group contained members of different personalities and viewpoints who all saw things differently. Despite our differences, we came together to share a common vision and let that vision guide our work. To prevent miscommunication, we created a group chat where everyone could post their progress. I will bring this same dedication and collaborative mindset with me to work, should your agency hire me."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"As an Apartment Leasing Agent, I work independently for the majority of my day. I find that my most challenging team collaborations come when we are arranging special open houses for some of our multi-unit clients. My secret comes in the form of organization, and having expectations set from the start."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
3. As an Apartment Leasing Agent, work emergencies can often arise. How often do you take work home with you?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you work additional hours when necessary. The majority of leasing agents will work overtime hours or take work home with them quite often. Talk to the interviewer about how frequently you take your work home, and if you are willing to go the extra mile when necessary.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I will take my work home with me whenever it is necessary. As a recent university graduate, I am no stranger to hard work and putting in many hours per week. I am ready to do what it takes to kick-start a great career as an Apartment Leasing Agent."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I rarely expect my day to be a traditional 8-5. I have my emails on my smartphone and am happy to answer client questions in the evenings and weekends. I often travel after hours to be at a conference on time. Overtime is a way of life for an Apartment Leasing Agent."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
4. Have you ever received negative feedback on your approach, from a tenant or property owner?
How to Answer
Most people have had a negative review or poor feedback from someone at one point. What the interviewer would like to see is that you can bounce back professionally from a negative review or feedback. Discuss what you were able to learn from the experience or the feedback that you received.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I plan to view negative customer reviews as great learning opportunities. As a leasing professional, I will make sure that my approach is confident but never off-putting. From my time in university, I know how to interact well with people of different needs and personalities."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"My leasing agency as a whole has received very few negative client reviews. We did have an upset client a few months ago, and, unfortunately, I was the leasing agent for that particular account. The client felt that we could have delivered our paperwork faster, even though we did not miss a single deadline. I took this review into account and am now sure to outline client expectations more clearly from the start."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
5. Do you have confidence in your communication skills? What is your communication style?
How to Answer
Strong communication makes all the difference when it comes to workplace success. As an Apartment Leasing Agent, never underestimate the importance of being able to express yourself adequately to your tenants and your property owners. Efficiently communicating through body language, and written or oral communication can make a massive difference in these critical relationships.
Assure the interviewer that you are confident in your communication abilities. You can refer to any communications course or workshop that you have taken. Or, you can discuss a time when a manager or client told you that you had excellent communication skills.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I had better have confidence in my communication skills, seeing as I am looking for work in leasing, which is essentially sales. I would say I'm rather direct, but try to gather as much information as possible before approaching a conversation. Once I have the information that I need from all parties, I am direct and to the point. I find it gets things done effectively and without any convulsion."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Communication is everything to me, as a leasing agent. With my current company, I have recommended implementing various communication methods to help everyone stay on track, document better, and introduce transparency into the mix. I describe my communication style as open, easy, and organized."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
6. How would you describe your relationship with your tenants and property owners?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know more about your client and tenant relationships. Be sure to express that you value having solid stakeholder relationships. Discuss how you nurture these relationships to ensure that everyone is happy and on the same page. Talk to the interviewer about your strategy for creating healthy relationships in the workplace.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I love to get to know my property owners as well as tenants! The best part of the day is when a tenant comes to me for assistance, and I can guide them to the right property. It builds trust, and I always appreciate return clientele."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"My tenant and client relationships are open and honest. I believe that the more upfront and transparent I am with my clients, the more likely they are to return. I most definitely value my property owners and am sure to nurture those relationships as much as possible."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
7. Apartment Leasing Agents must be persuasive when negotiating on behalf of their clients. Do you consider yourself a persuasive person?
How to Answer
Part of being an excellent Leasing Agent is also having the power of persuasion when necessary. There is a difference between persuasion and debating - or even convincing. Persuasion is used when you want to influence someone rather than tell them that they are wrong, and you are right.
The power of persuasion is essential if you are selling or pitching anything. It is also a valuable skill when you want to gain momentum with your coworkers or have a property owner better understand your approach on a project.
It is not a negative thing to be persuasive. Talk to the interviewer about whether or not you consider yourself to be a persuasive individual.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"Persuasion is important in sales, and through the training that I will receive in this Apartment Leasing Agent role, I believe that my persuasion skills will only become stronger."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I can be persuasive when it comes to helping my clients to understand the logic, or reason, behind a decision that I feel is important for their property. It's important to lay out the intentions of any change and then express the importance of those changes."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
8. Where do you see your Apartment Leasing Agent career one year from now?
How to Answer
This question is a slight variation of the typical interview question, 'Where do you see yourself in five years?' Instead, the interviewer may ask more directly, 'Where do you see yourself in the next year?'
Interviewing, hiring, and onboarding is an expensive and time-consuming endeavor for any company. The interviewer wants to know that, if engaged, you will see this as a longer-term fit. Discuss your career plans, goals, and how those fit with what this company is offering. Describe your passion for this Leasing Agent opportunity, and what you like about the company for which you are applying.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"A year from now, I would like to be learning and growing in an organization that cares about its staff, its property owners, and it's tenants. I have been interested in joining the residential leasing industry for the last year, and I am eager to learn from the best while carving out a career with your highly esteemed organization."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"My twelve-month plan is to join your organization and earn my way into lead Leasing Agent role. I have a great deal of experience with property management, customer service, and market research. I believe you will see me well-suited for a leadership role within a short time."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
9. How will you handle working with very little supervision, with the ability to make crucial decisions independently?
How to Answer
Since the work of an Apartment Leasing Agent is highly independent, the interviewer would like to know if you have worked in an environment that offers little amounts of supervision. Primarily, they are looking for proof that you can be productive even when nobody is watching or supervising you. Be sure to ask the interviewer about the level of supervision in this particular role. You want to make sure it's a good fit for you.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"Being new to my career, I will enjoy close supervision in particular areas of my work as I get to know this industry and my role. Once fully ramped up, I will need room to work during other more independent project stages. I believe that a talented manager knows when to step in and when to give room to work, so I trust the process as I am trained and on-boarded."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I have very little supervision and as an experienced Leasing Agent, am accustomed to independent work. I am great with documentation and keeping in touch with my team and manager. This way, no mysteries are surrounding my progress or what is on the agenda for the week. Rest assured, I am highly capable in a hands-off management environment."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
10. As an Apartment Leasing Agent, when have you had to shift your priorities in response to sudden changes?
How to Answer
The life of an Apartment Leasing Agent is never the same from one day to the next, so the interviewer would like to know how you handle sudden shifts in priorities. Do you become very focused on the task at hand, or are you willing to drop what you are doing, and switch priorities? Discuss a time when you had to change your priorities on a dime. How did you react, and what was the result?
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"As a university student, my schedule and priorities change regularly and always at short notice. I have been able to adapt very well to these frequent, sudden changes and am confident that I will be able to adapt just as well in the workplace."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Recently, I had to shift my focus when I learned that we were acquiring a small portfolio of 15 properties that very same week. I had to change my plans to incorporate this new work and leasing deadlines. Instead of working on the duties I had scheduled for the week, I brought myself up to speed and integrated the new portfolio into my workflow. It was a stressful time, but I also learned how well I could adapt to sudden change."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
11. If we hire you as our next Apartment Leasing Agent, what will you accomplish in the first 90 days?
How to Answer
It's a good idea to have a 30, 60, and 90-day plan set out when you go into an interview. This approach is especially important when you are applying to a role such as an Apartment Leasing Agent, where your workload will be significant, quite quickly. Be prepared to discuss numbers, training, or achievements that you hope to see realized.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I believe the best action I can take in the first 90 days is to get to know each member of the team whom I will be working alongside. I plan to learn how everyone prefers to communicate. I also plan to fast-track my training by spending time on the weekends and evenings studying hard. I believe in doing everything faster and better, so you will see results and accomplishments from me very quickly."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"In my first 90 days I will work hard to get to know each property client on my list by calling them to introduce myself. I plan to go through each open file and find out how we can optimize their current property marketing package. I want to accomplish some exciting new activity and infuse these accounts with fresh creativity."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
12. What is your most effective question when interviewing and vetting a potential tenant?
How to Answer
It's crucial that, as an Apartment Leasing Agent, you can secure only the best tenants for your clients' properties. The hiring authority would like to get a glimpse into how you interview applicants, ensuring you ask the right questions to identify if they are a fit for your listing.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I am here to learn and would love to know the types of questions your agency asks of tenants applying to lease your listings. Initial instinct tells me that 'Why are you moving?' or 'Why are you looking for a new lease at this time?' would be a great place to start."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I realize the value of a few substantial questions, which is why I ask more direct questions rather than have small talk. My favorite question is, 'What will your most recent landlord say about you when I call for a reference?' Then, I look to see if they stumble, become uncomfortable, or change their body language. If they answer freely with a positive tone, then I am more likely to accept their application."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
13. In summary, what do you believe to be your responsibilities as an Apartment Leasing Agent?
How to Answer
It's time to show the interviewer that you have a full understanding of your responsibilities and duties within this role. You must show that you have read through the job description meticulously and also show that you are confident and capable when it comes to the expectations of filling this role. Describe your responsibilities as an Apartment Leasing Agent and confirm that you are ready to do the job, as described.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I have thoroughly read through the job description for this role and look forward to taking on the exciting responsibilities of an Apartment Leasing Agent. I understand that, at first, I will be taking rent payments and answering issues from tenants. Gradually I will work my way into more client-facing responsibilities with the property owners. I am eager to grow into this profession and will begin with any responsibilities you offer me."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"There are many responsibilities of a leasing agent. In my day to day activities, I document details of properties, take calls related to maintenance issues, and advertise new properties for lease. I screen prospective tenants and do the proper verification checks. I do walk out and move-in inspections, and ensure that all lease applications are properly filled and vetted. I also spend a good deal of time looking for new property owners to represent. Another large part of my role is collecting rent payments on behalf of my clients. I come fully prepared to meet the needs of your agency."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
14. Are you involved with any leasing organizations, groups, or associations?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you have any professional organizations with which you are associated. The more experienced you are in your leasing profession, the more likely you are to have a strong industry network. Talk to the hiring authority about how you keep yourself socially active in the leasing industry.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"Once I begin working in the leasing industry, I would love to become as involved as possible with its community and association leaders. Do you have any recommendations when it comes to the types of industries and groups that I should seek out?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"When I moved to this city five years ago, I immediately joined the Chamber of Commerce as well as the Residential Leasing Association. I have made many incredible connections through both associations and plan to remain involved throughout my career."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
15. Have you ever had to mediate between a property owner and a tenant?
How to Answer
Performing a mediation will involve listening to all disputing parties and facilitating an agreement with which all parties can agree. A successful negotiation is one where everyone compromises, and not one party walks away with exactly what they want. Assure the hiring authority that you will be able to handle a dispute between a property owner and a tenant with utmost poise and professionalism.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"As a person new to my career, I have yet to mediate between two parties in a workplace setting. With that said, I am a fantastic negotiator and debater. I have taken classes around debate and psychology and fully believe that I could deploy that knowledge when it comes to mediating a dispute between a property owner and a tenant. I also plan to learn from those senior to me, ensuring that I use language that calms the situation while doing the best I can for both parties."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I have had to mediate many times between a property owner and a tenant. Recently I had a tenant who felt they deserved their entire $1500 damage deposit returned upon move out. Our agency and the property owner, disagreed. The tenant had an unapproved pet, and they failed to do a final cleaning, as outlined in their rental agreement. We wanted to deduct the $500 pet fee as well as the $500 cleaning fee for a return of only $500. I initiated a phone call that was initially heated; however, I was able to help all parties see the others' viewpoints. In the end, we compromised and returned $800, just over half of the initial deposit."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
16. What qualities do you look for in an ideal tenant?
How to Answer
An ideal tenant is one with stable work history, excellent references, and a clean credit rating who will treat their newly leased apartment with pride. They pay their rent on time and are in touch with concerns promptly. The interviewer wants to see that you recognize the ideal qualities of an applicant. Briefly share what you look for when seeking out a new tenant for your clients' properties.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"The qualities I would look for in a tenant include honesty, strong personal and work ethic, and cleanliness. If the applicant showed up to a walk-through very messy and frazzled with limited history to provide, that would be a red flag for me. Could you share with me any non-negotiables you look for when reviewing a tenant application?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Answer Example
"I look for a consistent history in their work and personal life. Consistency is important because if they stick with a job, they are most likely to stay longer and be respectful tenants who pay their lease on time. Personality-wise, I have tenants of all kinds; however, the common denominator is consistency."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
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17. What verification methods do you use for a tenant application?
How to Answer
Most standard tenant applications will come with a background check that could include past tenancy references, criminal background checks, credit checks, identity, and employment verification. Talk to the interviewer about the types of audit you use in your tenant background process.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"Although I have not performed any verification as of yet, I know the routine I went through when leasing my first apartment this year. I provided references, information for a credit check and gave the leasing agent my drivers' license as ID. I am eager to learn more about your verification checks and the important steps you take to ensure a good match with properties and tenants."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"First and foremost, I check for identity. I ask for a drivers' license or a passport to make sure that the person is who they say they are. Next, I ask for a list of landlord references, current employer, and pay stubs. I am meticulous to ensure that a tenant is who they portray themselves to be. This careful approach protects all parties and, most especially, the property owners."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
18. Tell me about the toughest negotiation you have ever facilitated.
How to Answer
Apartment Leasing Agents will negotiate many factors, including listing features, pricing, length of leases, and re-negotiating expired tenancy or property owner contracts. Show the interviewer that you are capable of handling a tough negotiation.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I am new to the workplace but not new to negotiations. In school, I had to complete a lot of group work, which involved negotiating interest, buy-in, and commitment from other group members. I consider myself to be a persuasive person, so I would deploy a mix of facts and human emotion to get people excited about their contribution. I plan to bring the same enthusiasm and persuasion to my role as an Apartment Leasing Agent."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Negotiating rent is always a challenging situation for me, as an Apartment Leasing Agent. Everyone wants to get a good deal; however, the outcome must work for all parties involved. The toughest rent negotiation I came across was during a hectic season where many comparable properties were available on the market. The tenant wanted utilities included, and they were ready to sign a 2-year lease with no negotiation on the rental amount. The property owner was headstrong and did not understand the value of a 2-year lease. I did a lot of work with backchecks and phone calls to the applicants' references. They had a solid history with good credit and a steady job. After presenting all of these factors to my client, my client agreed to include utilities. Everyone was happy in the end, and the tenant ended up staying for four years, which was incredible."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
19. What type of leasing apps, tech, or programs have you used in the past?
How to Answer
Many Apartment Leasing Agents have started to use helpful tools, apps, and programs to track things like leads, tours, commission, and more. Some of these tools may be task management tools, easy to use graphic tools for marketing materials, programs for electronic signatures, or video marketing apps for creating videos for featured properties. Speak to the hiring authority about anything you use to make your job easier or provide you with optimal results.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I embrace tech tools in everything that I do and am open to learning any system that will make my work more efficient. If you could share with me the tools that you use here, I would love to get a head start on learning."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I love technology and the fact that it has added fun and efficiency to my job over the years. I use a program called Canva to make eye-catching graphics for marketing materials. I use Trello as a project management tool to keep in touch with my clients on progress. I also use Docu-sign for electronic paperwork and signing when working with my tenants. The list is endless! Could you share with me the top tools used with your leasing agency?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
20. Do you view yourself as a sales professional? Please explain why or why not.
How to Answer
Apartment Leasing Agents have a variety of tasks, including positioning properties for rent through marketing and sales techniques. A successful leasing agent will see themselves as a sales professional. Similar to a real estate agent, a leasing agent must accurately and competitively represent a clients' property for rent or lease. Talk to the interviewer about your viewpoint when it comes to the sales aspect of your position.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"As I learn more about the leasing industry and work my way into a full-fledged leasing agent role, I will certainly see myself more and more as a sales professional. To prepare, I have read a variety of sales books, and I listen to sales podcasts. I have familiarized myself with the goals and targets that I will face in a role such as this."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"It is important for a leasing agent to act as a real estate agent, a business development professional and an entrepreneur, all in one. I most certainly see myself as a sales professional. I give myself important targets to reach every week, month, and quarter. These targets include how many calls I make, whether they be warm calls or follow up calls. I also look closely at inbound leads, my lead-to-tour conversion rate, and my close rate - just as a sales professional would. This discipline is most certainly what has contributed to my success as an Apartment Leasing Agent."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
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Rachelle's Feedback
21. How do you ensure your interpersonal skills remain on point, even on the busiest days?
How to Answer
Interpersonal skills are the behaviors you use to interact effectively with other people. When you have a busy day, it's easy to get wrapped up in your tasks and forget the importance of delivering the best in service and communication. Talk to the interviewer about the ways that you ensure your interpersonal skills are precisely what your clients and coworkers expect from you, even on the most action-packed days.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"As a keen student and an avid member of my community, I make sure to display behaviors that are becoming of me, flatter others, and make everyone in the room feel comfortable. I often put myself in the shoes of others, which helps me a lot when it comes to being consistent in my approach to dealing with others."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"It's imperative to me that the people I am around, whether it be coworkers, my property owners, or the tenants that I speak with, feel as though they are in good hands. I exude professionalism, warmth, control, and kindness in every action that I take, no matter how busy the day. I have made this approach a habit over the years, and these interpersonal skills are what has made me successful as an Apartment Leasing Agent."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
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22. As an Apartment Leasing Agent, you must be highly independent. Give me an example of your independence in action.
How to Answer
The interviewer is looking for a workplace example of a time when you acted independently. Be sure that you give an example of a time when your independent actions led to a successful result. Some of the ways you may have been independent include asking for new responsibilities, taking the initiative on a project without being asked, or take on the opportunity to learn a new skill.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I am an independent person in that I do not need continual prompting to get a job started or to complete it. As a university student, I learned independently every single day, found the resources that I needed, and completed assignments on my own. I plan to bring this same independence to the workplace as I learn how to become the best Apartment Leasing Agent possible."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Answer Example
"This year I have taken on additional learning opportunities including some real-estated related coursework. I took this step to further educate myself without being prompted by my employer. These courses will help me to have more impact at work and to complete new contracts with even more confidence."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
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Rachelle's Feedback
23. On a scale of 1-10, how proficient is your knowledge of the real estate industry and property management principles?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like a brief snapshot of your level of understanding when it comes to the fundamentals of the property management and real estate industry. Rate your proficiency from 1-10 with 10 being an expert level. When giving your answer, be sure to leave room for growth while, at the same time, avoiding giving yourself too low of a score.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"Since I am new to this career, I will rank myself as a 5 out of 10. I have performed a great deal of research on the industry, our local market, as well as the legislations I need to know best. With that said, I am confident that I will get my proficiency up very quickly as I am keen to learn and ready to immerse myself in the leasing industry."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Answer Example
"I have worked as a Leasing Agent for many years now and would rank my industry proficiency and knowledge level around a 9 out of 10. There is always room to grow, and legislation is constantly changing, which keeps me in a constant flow of learning."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
24. Are you looking for an opportunity with base pay plus commission or are you open to working on 100% commission?
How to Answer
The hiring authority needs to be sure that you are comfortable with whichever pay structure they are offering. If you are not sure how the pay structure will work for this role, be sure to ask and gain clarification. Be prepared to discuss exactly what you are looking for in your next opportunity.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"As a new Apartment Leasing Agent, I am willing to start where I can, and if this requires working on 100% commission, then I will. Could you explain to me how the commission works with your agency?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Answer Example
"I have worked on 100% commission in the past, with great success. With that said, I am at the stage in my career where I would prefer a base pay with opportunity for uncapped commission earnings based on my performance. Could you explain to me the pay structure offered in this role?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
25. How do you feel about working evenings and weekends, performing open houses and walkthroughs?
How to Answer
Before answering scheduling questions, it's essential to be clear on the expectations of an Apartment Leasing Agent. You want to be sure that you can meet their expectations. If it turns out their schedule expectations won't work for you, think about what you can offer and see if you can meet in the middle. It's much better to discuss these things in an interview than for you to commit to a schedule that won't work for you. Keep in mind that, in most states, an employer cannot demand that an employee work more than 44 hours per week. With that said, you will need to pivot your hours to meet the needs of your clients.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I am aware that the schedule of an Apartment Leasing Agent will include weekends and evenings when most people are available to view a property or meet up to sign paperwork. I will do what it takes to serve my clients."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Answer Example
"I am willing to work overtime, as my clients need. I value my personal time, but I can be flexible as to when I take that time. I fully understand that my clients need me to be there for them on weekends and evenings when applicants are more likely available to do property viewings and come to open houses or walkthroughs."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
26. What do you know about the Landlord Tenant Act?
How to Answer
Landlord-tenant law will vary depending on your region. Take some time to assure the interviewer that you are aware of the rules, policies, and regulations that you will have to know and follow as an Apartment Leasing Agent. If you are new to your career, be sure to express a willingness to immerse yourself in the regulations present in your region.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I understand the basics as I have begun to study in preparation for this interview. There are laws and regulations that all parties must meet, including topics surrounding damage deposits, contracts, discrimination, background checks, and more. I am eager to learn more as I grow with your agency."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Answer Example
"I closely follow the regulations in my area to protect my clients, properties, and tenants. I understand the basic types of landlord-tenant relationships and rules around abandonment, eviction, privacy, and more. I plan to continue keeping myself educated on changes that arise and do so with Google alerts as well as reading local market reports."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
27. If hired as our Apartment Leasing Agent, how will you go about finding new clients?
How to Answer
As an Apartment Leasing Agent, you may be responsible for finding new clients and listings to add to your portfolio. If you earn full or even partial commission, your business development activities will be especially crucial to your success. Outline for the interviewer the ways that you seek out new clients and their properties.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"It will be important to me that I build my business quickly. For that reason, I am prepared to cold call and get in touch with former property clients who have gone quiet. Once I begin to grow my property portfolio, I will begin to ask for referrals as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Answer Example
"I started my career through pure cold calling from online listings of property owners who appeared to be managing their properties on their own. Today, my greatest business development activities include asking for referrals, calling former clients who have not listed with our agency for the past one to three years, and partnering with other professionals in a referrals exchange."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
28. How do you ensure you're in-the-know on the property market and its trends?
How to Answer
It's time to show the interviewer that you have a keen interest in the industry. Discuss the resources that you lean on, and the action that you take to remain on top of market trends and lease-related news in your area.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I will study any resources that you recommend. I do subscribe to a few real estate newsletters from our top local realtors, as well as residential developers. I have a genuine interest in what is coming available in our city and how the residential leasing market is shifting as our city grows."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Answer Example
"I put together quarterly market reports for my clients and collect information from local real-estate reports. I analyze the data from our agency's properties, and I have a couple of bankers that I talk to regarding mortgage rates and average rental pricing. It's essential to me that I am knowledgable on the types of residential properties up and coming as well. This well-rounded view helps me to serve my clients best."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
29. How do you build strong, trusting relationships with the property owners that you represent?
How to Answer
The property owners that you represent are the heartbeat of your business. Without strong relationships with your property owners, you would not have repeat business and risk a poor reputation in your area. Talk to the interviewer about the ways that you approach relationship building with your valued clients.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I will build strong, lasting relationships with my clients by showing them that I am reliable, I have good judgment, and that I care about their business. I believe that being transparent and keeping in touch will be the best way for me to begin nurturing strong relationships with the property owners whom I represent."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Answer Example
"I am open, honest, fair, and prompt with my clients. Over the years, I have developed a solid reputation in the leasing industry, which has led to many excellent referrals and a great deal of repeat business. I call my clients regularly, and I send quarterly reports on their properties, which they certainly appreciate. These are just a few of the ways that I nurture these critical relationships."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
30. What type of properties do you have experience leasing?
How to Answer
Since you are interviewing for an Apartment Leasing Agent position, the interviewer will want you to highlight your residential leasing experience. Depending on your background, you may also have experience with commercial leasing. Briefly walk the hiring authority through your leasing experiences, taking the time to assure them that you are skilled and ready to take on the responsibilities of this role.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Entry Level
"I am new to the leasing industry and have a keen interest in all topics residential. I understand there is room for growth into the commercial leasing side of your business; however, I desire to learn everything that I can about apartment leasing for the next few years."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019
Answer Example
"I have spent the past nine years working in residential leasing, taking on listings from apartments to penthouses primarily in the downtown district. Although I have not worked with single-family homes, I have represented a few multi-unit townhouse developments. I appreciate the volume of work associated with apartment leasing, and, with our city growing and developing so quickly, I anticipate an even greater uptick in leased properties over the next few years."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 30th, 2019