20 Leasing Professional Interview Questions (With Example Answers)
It's important to prepare for an interview in order to improve your chances of getting the job. Researching questions beforehand can help you give better answers during the interview. Most interviews will include questions about your personality, qualifications, experience and how well you would fit the job. In this article, we review examples of various leasing professional interview questions and sample answers to some of the most common questions.
Common Leasing Professional Interview Questions
- What made you want to pursue a career in leasing?
- What are the most important qualities that a successful leasing professional should possess?
- What do you feel sets you apart from other leasing professionals in the industry?
- How would you describe the perfect lease agreement?
- What are some of the challenges that you have faced while working in this field?
- How do you go about finding the right property for your clients?
- What are some of the common mistakes that people make when leasing a property?
- How can a lessee ensure that they are getting the best possible deal on their lease agreement?
- What are some of the red flags that you look for when reviewing a lease agreement?
- How do you negotiate with landlords on behalf of your clients?
- What are some tips that you can give to first-time lessees?
- How do you handle it when a client wants to lease a property that is outside of your area of expertise?
- What do you think is the most important thing that people should know about leasing a property?
- How do you keep up with changes in the leasing market?
- What are some of your favorite things about working in this field?
- What do you think is the biggest misconception about leasing a property?
- How do you work to build relationships with landlords and property managers?
- How does your experience in this field benefit your clients?
- What are some of the unique selling points that you offer to potential clients?
- Why should someone choose to work with you over another leasing professional?
What made you want to pursue a career in leasing?
Some potential reasons an interviewer might ask this question are:
-To get a sense of the candidate's motivation for working in the leasing industry specifically. It can be helpful for the interviewer to understand what drew the candidate to this particular field, as it can give insight into whether they are likely to be satisfied and stay in the role long-term.
-To gauge the candidate's understanding of what a career in leasing entails. It is important for leasing professionals to have a good understanding of the industry and what their day-to-day responsibilities would be in order to be successful in the role.
-To see if the candidate has done their research on the company. If the candidate has taken the time to learn about the company and what they do, it shows that they are invested in the potential opportunity and are more likely to be a good fit for the organization.
Example: “I have always been interested in real estate and property management, and a career in leasing seemed like a natural fit. I enjoy working with people and helping them find the perfect home or office space, and I love the challenge of negotiating leases. I feel that my skills in customer service and sales have helped me excel in this field, and I am passionate about making sure that my clients are happy with their new space.”
What are the most important qualities that a successful leasing professional should possess?
There are a few key qualities that every successful leasing professional should possess in order to be successful in their role. These include:
- Strong communication skills: Leasing professionals need to be able to effectively communicate with potential tenants, landlords, and co-workers. They need to be able to clearly explain lease terms and answer any questions that tenants may have.
- Organizational skills: Leasing professionals need to be able to keep track of multiple leases, move-in/move-out dates, and maintenance requests. They need to be able to stay organized in order to keep the leasing process running smoothly.
- People skills: Leasing professionals need to be personable and have good people skills. They need to be able to build relationships with potential tenants and make them feel comfortable signing a lease.
The interviewer is asking this question to get a better understanding of the applicant's qualifications for the role. It is important for leasing professionals to possess these qualities in order to be successful in their job.
Example: “The three most important qualities that a successful leasing professional should possess are:
1. The ability to build relationships and rapport with potential tenants. This involves being able to effectively communicate and connect with people from all walks of life. A successful leasing professional needs to be able to quickly establish trust and credibility with potential tenants in order to encourage them to sign a lease.
2. Strong negotiation skills. A successful leasing professional needs to be able to negotiate confidently and effectively in order to get the best terms for their property owner clients. They should also be able to handle difficult situations and objections from potential tenants calmly and professionally.
3. Excellent customer service skills. A successful leasing professional needs to be able to provide exceptional customer service throughout the entire leasing process, from initial contact with potential tenants all the way through move-in day. They should be friendly, helpful, and always willing to go the extra mile to make sure their clients are happy.”
What do you feel sets you apart from other leasing professionals in the industry?
The interviewer is asking this question to gain insight into what the leasing professional feels makes them unique and why they believe they would be the best candidate for the position. It is important for the interviewer to understand what the leasing professional feels sets them apart from others in the industry in order to gauge their level of experience and confidence.
Example: “There are many things that set me apart from other leasing professionals in the industry. First and foremost, I have a genuine passion for helping people find their perfect home. I truly enjoy working with people and guiding them through the leasing process. I am also very detail-oriented and organized, which helps me to keep everything running smoothly. Additionally, I have a strong background in customer service and sales, which helps me to effectively communicate with potential tenants and close deals.”
How would you describe the perfect lease agreement?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the leasing professional's understanding of what goes into a good lease agreement. A lease agreement is a legally binding contract, so it is important that the leasing professional knows what should be included in order to protect both the landlord and the tenant. A good lease agreement will spell out the rights and responsibilities of both parties, as well as any rules and regulations that must be followed. By asking this question, the interviewer can get a sense of whether the leasing professional has a good understanding of what it takes to create a fair and balanced lease agreement.
Example: “The perfect lease agreement would be one that is clear and concise, easy to understand, and covers all the important points of the lease. It should be fair to both the landlord and the tenant, and protect both parties' interests.”
What are some of the challenges that you have faced while working in this field?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the Leasing Professional's experience and understanding of the challenges inherent in the industry. It is important for the Leasing Professional to be able to identify and articulate these challenges, as it shows that they are knowledgeable and experienced in their field. Additionally, the interviewer wants to see how the Leasing Professional has coped with or overcome these challenges in the past, as this will give insight into their problem-solving abilities.
Example: “The most common challenge that leasing professionals face is finding qualified tenants. Other challenges can include maintaining the property, keeping up with repairs and maintenance, and meeting the financial obligations of the lease agreement.”
How do you go about finding the right property for your clients?
An interviewer would ask "How do you go about finding the right property for your clients?" to a/an Leasing Professional because it is important to find a property that meets the needs and wants of the client. The Leasing Professional needs to be able to understand the client's needs in order to find the right property.
Example: “There are a few key steps to finding the right property for my clients. First, I listen to their needs and requirements in order to get a clear idea of what they are looking for. Next, I conduct a thorough search of the market using various resources such as listings databases, real estate websites, and brokerages. Once I have found a selection of potential properties that match my client's criteria, I arrange viewings so they can choose the one that is right for them. Finally, I negotiate with the landlord or seller on behalf of my client to get the best possible price and terms.”
What are some of the common mistakes that people make when leasing a property?
There could be a number of reasons why an interviewer would ask this question to a Leasing Professional. It is important to know the common mistakes people make when leasing a property because it can help you avoid them. It is also important to be able to identify these mistakes so that you can help potential tenants avoid them.
Example: “One of the most common mistakes people make when leasing a property is not reading the lease agreement carefully. Many people simply skim through the agreement, assuming that they understand all of the terms and conditions. However, it is important to read the lease agreement thoroughly and ask questions if there is anything that you do not understand.
Another common mistake is not getting everything in writing. It is important to get all verbal agreements in writing so that there is no confusion later on.
People also sometimes fail to take into account all of the costs associated with leasing a property. In addition to the monthly rent, there may be other costs such as utilities, parking, and security deposits. Be sure to factor these costs into your budget when considering whether or not you can afford to lease a particular property.
Finally, some people mistakenly believe that they can sublet their leased property without the landlord’s permission. This is usually not the case, so be sure to check with your landlord before subletting your property.”
How can a lessee ensure that they are getting the best possible deal on their lease agreement?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the leasing professional's understanding of the leasing process and their ability to negotiate on behalf of their client. It is important for the interviewer to know that the leasing professional is able to get the best possible deal for their client because it shows that they are knowledgeable and have the ability to advocate for their client's interests.
Example: “There are a few things that a lessee can do to ensure that they are getting the best possible deal on their lease agreement. First, they should make sure to read and understand the lease agreement before signing it. Second, they should negotiate with the lessor to get the best terms possible. Finally, they should consult with a qualified attorney or leasing professional to ensure that they are getting the best deal possible.”
What are some of the red flags that you look for when reviewing a lease agreement?
The interviewer is asking this question to gain insight into the lease professional's level of experience and expertise. It is important for the interviewer to know that the lease professional is able to identify potential problems with a lease agreement so that they can be avoided. By understanding the red flags that a lease professional looks for, the interviewer can be sure that they are hiring a knowledgeable and experienced individual.
Example: “There are a few key red flags that I always look for when reviewing a lease agreement. The first is the length of the lease. I generally prefer leases that are no longer than one year in length, as this gives me the flexibility to renegotiate terms if necessary. Another key red flag is the amount of rent being charged. I always make sure to compare the rent price to similar properties in the area to ensure that it is fair and reasonable. Lastly, I always take a close look at the security deposit amount and any pet fees or other charges that may be included in the lease agreement.”
How do you negotiate with landlords on behalf of your clients?
One of the key responsibilities of a leasing professional is to negotiate leases on behalf of their clients. This includes negotiating the terms of the lease, the rent price, and any other special conditions that may be included in the lease. This is important because it ensures that the client is getting the best possible deal on their lease, and that they are able to negotiate any special conditions that they may need in order to make the lease work for them.
Example: “There are a few key things to keep in mind when negotiating with landlords on behalf of your clients. The first is to always be professional and courteous, even if the landlord is being difficult. It's important to remember that you're representing your client and their best interests, so staying calm and collected is crucial.
The second thing to keep in mind is that you need to be prepared to negotiate. This means having a clear understanding of what your client wants and needs, as well as what the landlord is willing to budge on. It's important to have a back-up plan in case the landlord isn't willing to meet your client's needs, but it's also important not to give in too easily.
The third thing to keep in mind is that you should always try to get the best deal for your client. This means pushing for lower rent prices, longer lease terms, or other concessions from the landlord. Remember, you're representing your client and their best interests, so don't be afraid to stand up for what they want.”
What are some tips that you can give to first-time lessees?
The interviewer is likely asking this question to gauge the leasing professional's experience and expertise in the field. It is important for a leasing professional to be able to provide tips and advice to first-time lessees in order to help them navigate the leasing process and make informed decisions. By doing so, the leasing professional can build trust and credibility with potential clients.
Example: “Some tips that you can give to first-time lessees include:
1. Make sure that you understand the terms of your lease agreement before signing it. Read it over carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
2. Be aware of your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. Know what your landlord is responsible for and what you are responsible for in terms of maintenance and repairs.
3. Pay your rent on time, every month. This will help avoid any potential late fees or other penalties.
4. Keep your rental unit clean and tidy. This includes taking care of any necessary repairs or maintenance in a timely manner.
5. Be respectful of your neighbours and follow the rules and regulations set out in your lease agreement and by your landlord.”
How do you handle it when a client wants to lease a property that is outside of your area of expertise?
An interviewer would ask "How do you handle it when a client wants to lease a property that is outside of your area of expertise?" to a/an Leasing Professional to gauge their ability to deal with difficult situations. It is important for a leasing professional to be able to handle difficult situations because they will likely face them on a daily basis.
Example: “When a client wants to lease a property that is outside of my area of expertise, I would first consult with my broker or manager to see if they have any suggestions on how to proceed. If they are unable to provide any guidance, I would then reach out to other leasing professionals in the area where the property is located to get their input and advice. Once I have gathered all of the necessary information, I would then present it to the client so that they can make an informed decision.”
What do you think is the most important thing that people should know about leasing a property?
An interviewer would ask "What do you think is the most important thing that people should know about leasing a property?" to a/an Leasing Professional to get their opinion on what is the most important thing for people to know when leasing a property. This is important because it can help the interviewer understand the Leasing Professional's thought process and how they would approach potential tenants.
Example: “The most important thing that people should know about leasing a property is the terms of the lease agreement. They should be sure to read and understand the agreement before signing it. The agreement should include all the details of the lease, such as the length of the lease, the monthly rent amount, and any other special conditions or rules that apply to the property.”
How do you keep up with changes in the leasing market?
An interviewer would ask "How do you keep up with changes in the leasing market?" to a/an Leasing Professional because it is important for them to be up-to-date on changes in the leasing market so that they can properly advise their clients.
Example: “There are a few ways that I keep up with changes in the leasing market. First, I read industry publications and attend industry events. This helps me to stay up-to-date on new trends and developments. Additionally, I network with other leasing professionals. This allows me to learn from their experiences and get insights into what is working well in the market. Finally, I regularly review my own performance to see where I can make improvements. This helps me to identify areas where I need to adapt my approach in order to be more successful.”
What are some of your favorite things about working in this field?
There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. First, they may be trying to get a sense of what motivates the leasing professional and what they enjoy about their work. This can help the interviewer understand whether the leasing professional is likely to be satisfied in their position and how they might respond to various challenges that may come up. Additionally, the interviewer may be looking for specific examples of how the leasing professional has found satisfaction in their work in the past, which can give insight into their work ethic and attitude. Finally, this question can also help the interviewer gauge the leasing professional's level of experience and expertise in the field, as those who have been working in the field for a longer period of time may be able to provide more detailed and nuanced answers.
Example: “I love working in the leasing field because it allows me to be very creative and work with a lot of different people. I also enjoy the challenge of finding the perfect home for each individual client. It is very rewarding to see people happy in their new homes.”
What do you think is the biggest misconception about leasing a property?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the leasing professional's understanding of the leasing process and their ability to communicate with potential tenants. It is important for the interviewer to understand the leasing professional's level of knowledge and ability to communicate with potential tenants so that they can make an informed decision about whether or not to lease a property.
Example: “The biggest misconception about leasing a property is that it is a long and complicated process. In reality, leasing a property can be a relatively simple and straightforward process, as long as both parties are well-informed and have realistic expectations. Another common misconception is that leasing a property is always more expensive than buying one outright. While this may be true in some cases, it is not necessarily always the case. There are many factors to consider when making the decision to lease or buy a property, and ultimately the best option will vary depending on each individual situation.”
How do you work to build relationships with landlords and property managers?
It is important for a leasing professional to have good relationships with landlords and property managers because they are the ones who control the properties that the leasing professional is trying to lease. If the leasing professional can build good relationships with them, then it will be easier to lease properties from them.
Example: “I work to build relationships with landlords and property managers by maintaining regular communication, being responsive to their needs and concerns, and providing them with the information and resources they need to be successful. I also work to create a partnership with them by sharing my knowledge and expertise, and by collaborating on projects and initiatives that benefit both our businesses.”
How does your experience in this field benefit your clients?
The interviewer is trying to determine if the leasing professional has the necessary skills and knowledge to provide a high level of service to their clients. It is important for the interviewer to know if the leasing professional is able to provide a benefit to their clients that other professionals in the field may not be able to provide. This will help them to make a decision on whether or not to hire the leasing professional.
Example: “My experience in the field of leasing benefits my clients in a number of ways. First, I have a thorough understanding of the leasing process and the various options available to tenants. This allows me to provide my clients with accurate information and help them make informed decisions about their lease. Second, I have established relationships with many landlords and property managers, which gives me an inside look at the properties my clients are interested in. This allows me to negotiate better terms on behalf of my clients and get them the best possible deal on their lease. Finally, I am always up-to-date on the latest industry news and trends, which helps me advise my clients on the best way to approach their lease.”
What are some of the unique selling points that you offer to potential clients?
The interviewer is trying to understand what the leasing professional would say to someone who is considering signing a lease with their company. It is important for the interviewer to understand how the leasing professional would market their company and what they believe are the most important selling points. This question also allows the interviewer to gauge the leasing professional's understanding of their company's products and services.
Example: “Some of the unique selling points that we offer to potential clients include:
-A variety of floor plans to choose from
-Flexible lease terms
-Convenient locations
-Affordable prices
-A team of experienced and professional leasing consultants”
Why should someone choose to work with you over another leasing professional?
The interviewer is trying to determine if the leasing professional has a clear understanding of their own strengths and how they can benefit potential clients. It is important for the leasing professional to be able to sell themselves and explain why someone should choose to work with them over another leasing professional. This will help the interviewer to understand if the leasing professional is confident in their abilities and if they would be a good fit for the company.
Example: “There are many reasons why someone might choose to work with me over another leasing professional. One reason is that I have a lot of experience in the industry and have helped many people successfully lease properties. Another reason is that I am very knowledgeable about the leasing process and can help my clients navigate it effectively. Finally, I am always available to answer any questions my clients may have and am happy to help them find the perfect property for their needs.”