Leasing Agent vs. Realtor: What Are the Differences?

A leasing agent and a realtor are both involved in the process of helping people find housing. However, there are some key differences between the two positions. If you’re interested in a career in real estate, it’s important to understand the distinction between these job titles. In this article, we’ll define a leasing agent and a realtor, compare and contrast the two positions and offer some advice for those interested in pursuing a career in real estate.

What is a Leasing Agent?

Leasing Agents are responsible for renting out properties on behalf of their clients, which can include landlords, property management companies and real estate investors. They typically work in the office of the property owner or management company, but may also work remotely. Leasing Agents market properties to potential tenants, schedule and conduct tours, negotiate leases and collect security deposits. They must be familiar with the area’s real estate market and current rental rates. They also need to understand the needs and budget of potential tenants to match them with the right property.

What is a Realtor?

Realtors are real estate professionals who help people buy, sell, or lease properties. They work with clients to find the right property that meets their needs, then help them negotiate a fair price. Realtors also help clients with the paperwork and legalities involved in buying or selling a property. Some Realtors may also manage rental properties for their clients. Realtors typically work for a real estate broker or agent, and they may also be involved in property management.

Leasing Agent vs. Realtor

Here are the main differences between a leasing agent and a realtor.

Job Duties

Leasing agents have a variety of duties, depending on the type of property they manage. They may be responsible for advertising and marketing the property to attract potential renters, scheduling viewings with interested parties, conducting background and credit checks on prospective tenants, negotiating rental terms and signing tenancy agreements.

Real estate agents have many of the same duties, but their work is more focused on selling properties rather than renting them. These professionals advertise and market properties to attract buyers, negotiate sale prices with sellers and complete all necessary paperwork after a sale has been made.

Job Requirements

Leasing agents and realtors typically need at least a high school diploma to enter the field. However, many employers prefer candidates who have completed some college coursework or have earned a bachelor’s degree. Some states also require leasing agents and realtors to complete a certain amount of continuing education credits every year to maintain their license. These credits can be earned by taking classes, attending seminars or participating in other learning opportunities approved by the state.

Work Environment

Leasing agents typically work in an office environment, where they can access listings and databases of properties. They may also travel to visit prospective clients or view properties with them. Real estate agents usually work in a field environment, visiting properties and meeting with clients. Some real estate agents have their own businesses, while others work for larger companies.

Skills

Both leasing agents and realtors need to have excellent customer service skills. They will be working with clients throughout the process of finding or selling a property, and they need to be able to build relationships of trust. Communication skills are also important, as they will need to be able to explain complex concepts in a way that is easy for their clients to understand.

Leasing agents may need additional skills related to marketing and advertising, as they may be responsible for creating listings and promoting properties. They should also be familiar with lease agreements and other legal documents related to renting property. Realtors, on the other hand, may need additional skills related to finance and negotiation, as they may be responsible for helping their clients secure loans and get the best possible price for a property.

Salary

The average salary for a leasing agent is $52,127 per year, while the average salary for a realtor is $93,527 per year. The salary for a leasing agent may vary depending on the location of the job, the size of the company and the level of experience the agent has. The salary for a realtor may vary depending on the location of the job, the size of the company and the level of experience the realtor has.