How do you balance being friendly and professional when interacting with potential tenants?

1 Show genuine interest

The first step to building rapport is to show genuine interest in your potential tenants as individuals, not just as sources of income. Ask them open-ended questions about their needs, preferences, and expectations for the property. Listen attentively and empathetically to their answers, and avoid interrupting or judging them. By showing interest, you demonstrate that you care about their well-being and happiness, and that you are willing to accommodate their requests if possible.

2 Be friendly and respectful

Another way to build rapport is to be friendly and respectful in your interactions with potential tenants. Smile, make eye contact, and use a warm and polite tone of voice. Address them by their names, and use appropriate titles and pronouns. Avoid using slang, jargon, or sarcasm that might confuse or offend them. Also, respect their time and privacy, and avoid being pushy or intrusive. By being friendly and respectful, you create a comfortable and pleasant atmosphere that encourages potential tenants to open up and trust you.

3 Highlight your strengths and value

You also want to build rapport by highlighting your strengths and value as a landlord or property manager. Showcase your professionalism, expertise, and experience in the field. Highlight the benefits and features of your property, and how they match the potential tenants' needs and desires. Share positive testimonials and reviews from your current or past tenants, and provide references if requested. By highlighting your strengths and value, you show potential tenants that you are credible, reliable, and confident, and that you can offer them a great living experience.

4 Address their concerns and objections

Sometimes, potential tenants may have concerns or objections that prevent them from signing a lease with you. To build rapport, you need to address these issues in a respectful and constructive way. Acknowledge their concerns and objections, and try to understand the reasons behind them. Provide factual and honest information that answers their questions and clarifies any misunderstandings. Offer solutions or alternatives that can overcome their objections or meet their needs. By addressing their concerns and objections, you show potential tenants that you are responsive, flexible, and cooperative, and that you value their feedback and opinions.

5 Follow up and stay in touch

The last tip to build rapport is to follow up and stay in touch with potential tenants after your initial contact. Send them a thank-you note or email, and express your appreciation for their interest and time. Remind them of the benefits and features of your property, and invite them to contact you if they have any questions or concerns. Keep them updated on the status of the application process, and let them know if there are any changes or delays. By following up and staying in touch, you show potential tenants that you are attentive, proactive, and committed, and that you are eager to have them as your tenants.