Senior Leasing Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Senior Leasing Specialist to oversee leasing operations for our affordable residential communities in Hartford, CT. This role is responsible for driving occupancy, ensuring regulatory compliance, and delivering an exceptional leasing experience for prospective and current residents.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in affordable housing, strong knowledge of HUD, LIHTC, Fair Housing, and Resident Selection Plan (RSP) requirements, and the ability to mentor leasing staff while managing the full leasing lifecycle. This position may also serve as the designated representative for the Regional Property Manager as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the complete leasing process, including marketing, prospect follow-up, property tours, application processing, approvals, and move-ins.
• Maintain high occupancy levels by proactively marketing available units and minimizing vacancy loss.
• Convert phone, online, and walk-in inquiries into qualified applicants.
• Process move-in files while ensuring compliance with HUD, LIHTC, Fair Housing, and Resident Selection Plan requirements.
• Conduct applicant interviews and complete income verification, credit, criminal background, and EIV screenings in accordance with company policies.
• Prepare and issue approval and denial notices while maintaining Fair Housing compliance.
• Monitor vacancies, lease expirations, unit turnover, and lease-up activities.
• Maintain accurate resident files, leasing records, reports, and databases.
• Coordinate marketing initiatives, outreach events, and market surveys to support occupancy goals.
• Provide guidance and support to leasing staff and assist with training and daily operations.
• Foster positive relationships with residents and serve as a liaison between residents, site staff, and management.
• Develop and implement resident retention initiatives to improve lease renewals and resident satisfaction.
• Assist the Regional Property Manager with operational responsibilities as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of property management or affordable housing leasing experience is required.
• Certified Occupancy Specialist (COS) certification is required.
• Tax Credit certification (TCS, C3P, or equivalent) is required.
• Strong working knowledge of HUD, LIHTC, Fair Housing, and affordable housing compliance regulations.
• Experience processing affordable housing applications and maintaining compliance documentation.
• Strong leadership, organizational, communication, and customer service skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise professionalism at all times.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish is required.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with affordable housing property management software.
• Strong problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills.
• Experience supporting lease-up activities and occupancy growth.
• Knowledge of EIV systems and affordable housing compliance audit