In order to qualify for a position as a real estate receptionist, you will typically need some office experience, sometimes even real estate office experience. Job applicants should also have a pleasant and professional demeanor both in person and on the phone, as well as the ability to handle multiple tasks at a fast pace. Those interested in working as a real estate receptionist will typically need to complete a written application and then an interview. Individuals studying for a real estate license may work as a receptionist first in order to gain additional experience.
To work as a real estate receptionist, a certain personality is usually required, or at the very least strongly preferred. Realtors and agencies are looking for receptionists who are outgoing, friendly, and capable of engaging clients in pleasant conversation. It’s also crucial to be able to maintain a polite and professional demeanor at all times, even when things are stressful. Aside from these basic personality traits, most offices will require you to have prior office and/or customer service experience to ensure that you are familiar with office procedures.
You may be required to have specific real estate experience larger real estate offices. This is because you may be asked specific questions clients or be required to complete tasks related to real estate transactions, and having a basic understanding of these principles will be extremely beneficial. This is also why some people studying for their real estate licenses might start out as receptionists in these offices to get some hands-on experience with the industry and typical real estate transactions. If nothing else, you should know how to use a computer, multi-line phone systems, and fax machines, as well as how to maintain a filing system.
If you meet all of the requirements to work as a real estate receptionist, you can start calling local offices to see if they are hiring, or looking for job listings in newspapers or online. Many offices will hire multiple part-time receptionists or extra ones for busy times of the day. You might be asked to complete a basic application and then come in for an interview to discuss your qualifications and objectives. Be persistent if you want to work as a real estate receptionist; this is an entry-level position with frequent openings in many offices.