In the contemporary luxury real estate scene, home searching has become as much of an art as it is a science. There are many factors to consider before committing to a luxury home, with the location, size, design, and amenities being the most basic.
Luckily, the shifts in the luxury real estate landscape have also revolutionized the way people search for homes. Real estate agents are now instrumental in helping clients find the perfect home, including rentals. That also means the fate of your leasing journey rests on the expertise of the agent. For that reason, individuals looking to lease will be better advised to be proactive in their search for an expert agent to guide them.
If you are looking into luxury rentals in Los Angeles, the following are a few pointers to help find the best luxury home leasing real estate agent.
Ask for referrals from friends and acquaintances
One of the most reliable ways to find a reputable leasing real estate agent is by leveraging personal networks, including family, acquaintances, and colleagues. It's highly likely that one of them has prior experience with a leasing real estate agent or knows someone who has.
Personal recommendations carry significant weight, as they come from individuals you trust. They can provide valuable insights into an agent's professionalism, market knowledge, and dependability. A point to keep in mind is that while word-of-mouth referrals may be reliable, it is still essential to conduct due diligence, as the conditions may vary.
Utilize online resources
Online resources can be invaluable when searching for a leasing agent for luxury housing rentals in Los Angeles. Reputable real estate websites are especially helpful in this regard, allowing users to filter their searches based on location. Leasing agents also run profiles, portfolios, and testimonial pages on their own websites, allowing users to learn more about their background, experience, credentials, and core values.
Look for agents with professional connections
Looking for leasing agents who are affiliated with reputable real estate organizations or associations is a good idea. These associations usually have rigorous selection processes and ongoing professional development programs. Their members are expected to adhere to the highest standards of ethics and professionalism.
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) and the Institute of Real Estate Management (IRE) are just a few examples of such organizations. The former is for Realtors, who are expected to be well-versed in market trends and regulations. The latter was formed specifically for members who work in property management roles, such as luxury leasing agents.
Interview potential agents
After compiling a list of potential leasing agents, reach out to each to schedule a meeting. This presents an excellent opportunity to get a first-hand view of their professionalism and competency. To make the most of the meeting, prepare a list of questions ahead of time. This will give you a better understanding of their professionalism, expertise, and compatibility with your leasing requirements.
Assess their market knowledge
While a real estate agent's resourcefulness will not guarantee a successful lease, it is definitely the foundation. The most successful leasing agents are well-versed in current market trends. They know about the working marketing techniques, the current inventory of homes for rent, and recent price changes.
Check out their expertise and specialization
Luxury leasing is a niche market; thus, the typical real estate agent may lack the in-depth knowledge and experience necessary to navigate its intricacies. Be sure to look for an agent with a proven track record in leasing luxury homes. An agent specializing in luxury leasing will have a wealth of experience in dealing with high-end properties, enabling them to offer tailored advice and guidance throughout the leasing process.
Check out client reviews and testimonials
Past clients can speak to the competence of a luxury leasing agent. Their reviews can reveal important details about the quality of their work and their ability to deliver the desired results. An excellent place to find these testimonials and reviews is on the agent's website. Other platforms, such as real estate forums and third-party review websites, can also serve as valuable sources of information about real estate agents.
Check their licensing
Luxury home leasing real estate agents must be licensed by their states' licensing boards. An easy way to verify an agent's licensing is by visiting the local licensing board's website. By working with a licensed leasing agent, clients can enjoy peace of mind knowing their lease will be handled by a trusted professional. Licensing also enhances accountability because licensed real estate agents are bound by professional standards and ethical codes.
Check out their average listing time and number of listings
Another measure of an agent's competence is their average listing time, or the average time it takes them to secure a tenant after putting a property on the market. Generally, a shorter listing time indicates a diligent real estate agent, while longer listing times may indicate a less efficient agent. The easiest way to access this average is by asking the agent.
The number of active listings is another key indicator. You will want to work with a real estate agent with many active listings, as it shows a significant market presence. However, keep in mind that working with an agent with an overwhelming workload will be counterproductive as they may lack the time to devote to your property. That said, aim for a balance between an agent who has a large volume of listings and a manageable workload.
Work with a trusted and reputable California luxury homes leasing agent
Hiring a luxury leasing agent boils down to finding the right fit and a professional who will go to bat for you to ensure a seamless and rewarding experience. If you are looking to lease a luxury property in California, including luxury rentals in Los Angeles, Jordan Pollack of LA Luxuries is the agent you want on your side. Jordan boasts a wealth of experience in the California luxury housing market as well as a deep understanding of the nuances of luxury leasing. Contact Jordan Pollack today to set an appointment and get started on your next luxury lease.
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock
