Occupancy Specialist

About the Role:

St. Mary's Court is a 140-unit HUD subsidized Senior Community located in the Foggy Bottom area of Washington, DC. We are currently seeking a dynamic Occupancy Specialist who would play a critical role in managing and optimizing the occupancy levels of our property within the real estate and leasing sector. This position is responsible for ensuring that all units are leased efficiently, maintaining high occupancy rates, and contributing to the overall financial performance of the property portfolio. The specialist will also manage the waiting-list, process certifications and conduct annual recertification interviews. Ultimately, this role supports the sustained growth and profitability of the property assets at St. Mary's Court, 0804 through proactive occupancy management and exceptional customer service.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent; an associate degree or higher in real estate, business administration, or a related field is preferred.
• At least 1-2 years of experience in property management, leasing, or a related customer service role within the real estate industry.
• Knowledge of HUD/ section 202 policies and procedures. 
• Strong knowledge of leasing laws, fair housing regulations, and property management best practices.
• Proficiency with property management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with tenants, colleagues, and external partners.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification in property management (e.g., Certified Apartment Manager or similar).
• Experience working in Affordable Housing/ Section 202, residential leasing environments.
• Familiarity with local real estate market trends and demographics specific to the St. Mary's Court area.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze occupancy data and develop strategic leasing plans.
• Bilingual abilities or additional language skills relevant to the local tenant population.

Responsibilities:

• Manage the leasing process from initial inquiry through lease signing, ensuring compliance with company policies and legal requirements.
• Conduct property tours and effectively communicate the benefits and features of available units to prospective tenants.
• Maintain accurate records of occupancy status, lease agreements, and tenant communications using property management software.
• Collaborate with marketing teams to develop and implement strategies that increase property visibility and attract qualified tenants.
• Address tenant inquiries and concerns promptly to foster positive relationships and encourage lease renewals.
• Monitor market conditions and competitor offerings to recommend adjustments in rental rates and leasing incentives.
• Prepare regular occupancy reports and forecasts for property management and stakeholders.
• Coordinate with maintenance and operations teams to ensure units are ready for occupancy and meet quality standards.

Skills:

The Occupancy Specialist utilizes strong communication skills daily to engage with prospective and current tenants, ensuring clear and professional interactions that promote leasing success. Analytical skills are essential for interpreting occupancy data and market trends to make informed recommendations on rental pricing and marketing strategies. Organizational skills are critical for managing multiple leasing processes simultaneously, maintaining accurate records, and coordinating with various departments to prepare units for occupancy. Proficiency in property management software enables efficient tracking of leases, tenant information, and reporting, streamlining daily operations. Additionally, problem-solving skills help address tenant concerns promptly and effectively, contributing to tenant satisfaction and retention.

SPM, LLC is a EEO Employer and Drug-Free workplace.