Module 1: Welcome & Introduction
Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, you will:
Understand the mission, values, and culture of our brokerage.
Recognize the role of a leasing agent in Illinois and within our company.
Learn what success looks like as a new agent here.
Begin developing your professional introduction for clients.
Section 1: About Our Brokerage
Who we are: (Insert your brokerage name & short company story — e.g., “Founded in Chicago, we’ve been helping renters and landlords for 15 years with a focus on customer service and results.”)
What we do: Connecting renters to the right homes, helping landlords fill vacancies quickly, and providing excellent service to both sides.
Our values:
Professionalism → We represent ourselves and our clients with integrity.
Responsiveness → Timely follow-up is everything in leasing.
Fairness → Every renter and landlord deserves equal treatment.
Growth → We support your professional development.
Section 2: Your Role as a Leasing Agent
You are the front line of our business — the first impression renters and landlords have of the company.
Your main responsibilities include:
Responding to leads.
Qualifying renters.
Scheduling and conducting showings.
Guiding renters through applications.
Communicating with landlords.
Helping execute leases and move-ins.
Key mindset: Leasing is both sales and service. You are selling homes while also guiding people through an important decision.
Section 3: What Success Looks Like
Short-term success (first 90 days):
Learning company systems (CRM, email, scheduling).
Conducting your first showings confidently.
Closing your first deals.
Long-term success (6–12 months):
Consistently closing multiple leases each month.
Building repeat business and referrals.
Attracting landlords to list with you.
Mastering Chicago neighborhoods and market knowledge.
Tip: Success in leasing often comes down to responsiveness — the faster you reply to leads, the more deals you close.
Section 4: The Chicago Rental Market
Chicago is one of the largest rental markets in the U.S.
Seasonality matters: spring and summer are busiest; winter slows down.
Neighborhood knowledge is crucial — each area has its own vibe, price point, and renter base.
Being a “neighborhood expert” makes you more valuable to both renters and landlords.
Practical Example
A renter calls you about a Logan Square apartment. Instead of just answering their questions, you also:
Share insights about nearby transit, restaurants, and parks.
Offer to send similar listings in the area.
Schedule a showing immediately while you have their attention.
This creates value and builds trust.
Mini Quiz
1. Which of the following is NOT one of our brokerage values?
a) Professionalism
b) Responsiveness
c) Fairness
d) Closing deals at any cost
2. In your first 90 days, what should you focus on?
a) Building referrals
b) Learning systems and closing your first deals
c) Negotiating commission splits
d) Specializing in commercial leasing
3. True or False: The Chicago rental market has the same level of activity year-round.
Exercises
Activity 1: Personal Introduction
Write a short script you could use when first meeting a client. Example:
“Hi, my name is [Your Name], I’m a leasing agent with [Brokerage Name]. I specialize in helping renters find apartments in [Neighborhoods]. My goal is to make your search as smooth and stress-free as possible.”
Activity 2: Success Goals
Write down 3 personal goals for your first 90 days as a leasing agent. (Examples: “Respond to all leads within 1 hour,” “Conduct at least 10 showings per week,” “Close 3 deals by end of month 3.”)
End of Module Summary
Our brokerage values professionalism, responsiveness, fairness, and growth.
As a leasing agent, you are both a salesperson and a guide for renters and landlords.
Success starts with mastering systems, responding quickly, and closing your first deals.
The Chicago rental market is dynamic and neighborhood-driven — local knowledge gives you an edge.
✅ Now you’re ready to dive into Module 2: Licensing & Legal Foundations.