What Are Leasing Manager Skills? (And How to Improve Them)

Updated February 2, 2023

Leasing managers oversee rental properties for owners, ensuring they're comfortable and clean for tenants. They use attributes such as problem-solving skills, knowledge of rental laws, and communication abilities to perform their tasks efficiently. Learning more about these skills and how to improve or develop them may help you decide whether to pursue a position as a leasing manager. In this article, we explain what leasing manager skills are, review examples, explore how to develop these skills, and list ways you can highlight them at work, on job application materials, or during an interview.

What are leasing manager skills?

Leasing manager skills are the abilities individuals in this position have that help them perform tasks such as finding the right tenants, addressing concerns, and processing maintenance requests. Employers typically look for leasing managers with specific hard and soft skills, such as communication skills, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail, which allow them to complete their daily responsibilities efficiently. Developing and improving specific skills employers are looking for in a leasing manager can help improve your chance of receiving a job offer for this role.

Examples of leasing manager skills

Here are some examples of skills and attributes successful leasing managers may have:

Attention to detail

Leasing managers regularly monitor properties to ensure public spaces are clean and safe for all tenants. Having good attention to detail ensures they notice when there's an issue, such as a pipe that's leaking on the floor, making it a safety hazard. Leasing managers may also be responsible for preparing leasing documents and marketing materials, so they use their attention to detail to provide detailed and accurate information.

Interpersonal

Leasing managers work with a wide range of people, such as tenants, property owners, contractors, cleaning experts, and legal advisors. Having strong interpersonal skills helps them form professional relationships with these individuals so they can collaborate more effectively. This allows tenants to feel more comfortable in their rental properties as they know they can rely on the leasing manager for help.

Communication

Being able to communicate effectively helps leasing managers convey information to the individuals they work with daily. This ensures there are no misunderstandings about the property owner's expectations. Effective communication also helps leasing managers discuss tenancy requirements and policies with new tenants, ensuring they understand everything before signing an agreement.

Problem solving

Tenants may approach leasing managers with problems, such as a clogged toilet or rodent infestation. Leasing managers can use their problem-solving skills to assess the issue and determine the best way to resolve it. This ability helps them find a solution that benefits the tenants and the property owner.

How to improve leasing manager skills

If you want to become a leasing manager, here are the steps you can follow to improve and develop the necessary skills:

1. Consider pursuing a bachelor's degree

There are no strict educational requirements to become a leasing manager, but employers typically prefer candidates with a relevant bachelor's degree. Consider pursuing a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as advertising, sales, real estate, marketing, or business. These subjects help you learn more about the industry and encourage you to develop leadership skills, communication abilities, and business knowledge.

It takes three to four years to get a bachelor's degree. If this timeline doesn't align with your career goals, you may take individual law classes that help you learn more about fair housing laws and housing codes in your province or territory. This technical knowledge allows you to determine the best way to keep tenants happy and safe in their rental properties.

2. Gain industry experience

As a leasing manager is a leadership position, employers typically prefer candidates with prior industry experience. Consider pursuing an entry-level role in real estate, property sales, or property management to learn more about the industry. Many leasing managers start as leasing agents, as it helps individuals learn more about leasing operations. Leasing agents also work under leasing managers, so this can be a good opportunity for you to learn directly from an industry expert.

Every employer has their own requirements, but many prefer candidates with at least three years of industry experience. This experience can also help you develop valuable transferable skills, such as organization, critical thinking, and communication.

3. Get a mentor

Mentors are experts in their industry who have years of experience that they're willing to share with a mentee. They provide advice and guidance to help you reach your career goals. If you already work with a leasing manager, you can consider asking them to be your mentor. They can answer any questions you may have about the position, teach you how to perform their day-to-day tasks, and allow you to shadow them to see how they work.

4. Ask for feedback

Learning more about your strengths and weaknesses helps you determine what parts of your skill set you want to improve. One way to assess your abilities is to ask for feedback. For instance, ask your manager and colleagues what they think about your work ethic, how you positively contribute to the team, and what you can do to contribute more. They may suggest areas of improvement, such as specific skills you can develop to become a stronger team member.

You can also ask your family and friends for feedback. They may not have experienced your work ethic firsthand, but they know you and your skill set well and might be more willing to provide honest feedback.

Leasing manager skills in the workplace

Here are some tips you can apply to showcase your skills as a leasing manager in the workplace:

Form professional relationships. Try forming professional relationships with your colleagues and tenants if you have them already to showcase your communication and interpersonal skills. As a leasing manager, these skills help you understand your tenants' needs better so you can address them efficiently.

Create an open-door policy. If you're already a leasing manager, consider creating an open-door policy that shows your team you're approachable and willing to communicate about any concerns or questions they have. This can help you strengthen your relationships, and it allows you to resolve issues quickly before they impact the work environment.

Attend professional development training. The real estate industry is constantly changing, so pursuing professional development opportunities helps you keep up to date with industry news, trends, and policies. Pursuing this training also shows your team and employer that you're taking initiative to improve your performance.

How to highlight leasing manager skills

Here are some ways to highlight your skills as a leasing manager in different scenarios:

On a resume

When applying for leasing manager positions, it's important to attach a resume that showcases your skills, experience, and knowledge. Tailor your resume to the position and employer by reviewing the job posting and description and noting keywords. For example, the job posting may state the employer wants a leasing manager with three years of experience and strong problem-solving skills. Including these keywords throughout your resume can impress employers, improving your chances of receiving an invitation to interview.

On a cover letter

To expand on your skills, attach a cover letter to your job application. Discuss specific examples of times you used your skills successfully in the past. This shows the employer you have industry experience and the skill set they're looking for in an ideal candidate. Try to include quantifiable results in your cover letter so the hiring manager can easily understand your success. For example, instead of saying you have experience managing residential properties, mention that you have three years of experience managing over 15 residential properties at a time.

During an interview

Employers may invite you to interview for the leasing manager position if your resume and cover letter impress them. To prepare for the interview, think of questions the hiring manager may ask and determine the best way to answer them. For example, consider how you might include specific details about your skills and instances when you have used them effectively. Preparing ideas in advance helps you feel more confident during the interview so you can focus on impressing the hiring manager.

What Are Leasing Manager Skills? (And How to Improve Them)