Apartment broker

What does a rental agent do? – Tasks and work environment

A rental agent is responsible for matching tenants with available properties and managing the entire rental process. Tasks include receiving and reviewing applications, maintaining contact with applicants and property owners, and administering agreements and contracts. Advice to tenants regarding the housing market and support with lease terms are often included. The work is primarily office-based but may also involve property viewings and customer meetings both in person and digitally. The environment is characterized by a fast pace, where service orientation and accuracy are central qualities.

Salary development over time

The salary for rental agents has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month. In 2023, this increased to 34 300 SEK, corresponding to a salary increase of approximately 3.9%. In 2024, salaries continued to rise, and the average is now 35 600 SEK, an increase of an additional 3.8%. This positive trend reflects increased demand for qualified administrators in the property sector, while the job market remains balanced. Salaries are also influenced by employers seeking digital skills and customer contact experience, which increases the value of the role. Despite this growth, demand for the profession is expected to decline somewhat over five years according to the Public Employment Service forecast, which may affect future salary development.

Rental agent salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 54,200 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 214 SEK
• Women: 35 500 SEK (99% of men's salary)
• Men: 35 900 SEK
• Regional differences: Small to moderate, depending on location and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a rental agent, a high school diploma with an administrative or social science focus is usually required. Many employers also value experience in customer service, administration, or the property sector. Additional education in property brokerage, economics, or law can be advantageous and improve employment prospects. Practical skills in digital systems and good communication abilities are important for success in the role.

• High school diploma: Social sciences or administrative focus (3 years)
• Professional courses: Property brokerage, economics, or law (1–2 semesters)
• Internship: Meritorious experience within property companies or service industries
• Pre-requisites: Good knowledge of Swedish and digital tools
• Certification: Not required, but may be offered by some employers

Common benefits and compensations

Rental agents often have access to collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and flexible working hours. Other common compensations include subsidized lunches, extra vacation days, and opportunities for professional development within the field. Depending on the employer, bonuses linked to performance or results may also be offered.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a rental agent is at a balanced level, according to the Public Employment Service. The number of available jobs in the profession is relatively high, but demand is expected to decrease over five years. Digitalization and automation of parts of the brokerage process mean some tasks may change or disappear, requiring adaptability and technical competence. To stand out in the job market, a strong customer focus, good teamwork skills, and the ability to handle stressful situations are essential. Increased demands for documentation and regulations may also pose new challenges for the role.

Tips for those who want to become a rental agent

To succeed as a rental agent, it is beneficial to have a strong service orientation and an interest in helping people find the right home. Good organizational skills help when managing many applications and contracts simultaneously, so practicing structure and planning during education is wise. Communication skills are crucial for professional customer interaction and collaboration with property owners and colleagues. Developing digital competence, such as familiarizing oneself with property management systems and digital signing solutions, increases employment chances. Flexibility and stress resilience are important, as workload can vary and rapid changes are common. Finally, showing interest in the housing market and staying updated on current regulations and trends provides an advantage in both recruitment and daily work.

Key facts about Rental Agents

• Average salary: 35 600 SEK/month
• Education level: High school diploma, often supplemented with courses in property or administration
• Work environment: Office-based, sometimes with field elements
• Demand: 758 available jobs (May 2024)
• Future outlook: Demand expected to decrease over 5 years

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession as a rental agent, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as team leader, administrative manager, or more specialized positions within property management. Some also choose to further train as real estate agents or work in project management within the housing sector. According to the Public Employment Service forecast, employment opportunities are moderate today, but demand is expected to decline over five years. Digitalization and increased automation influence the profession, making skills development, especially in digital systems and customer management, crucial for long-term career growth. The job market is balanced, and there are still good opportunities for those with experience and proper education.

Frequently asked questions about Rental Agents

• What does a rental agent earn?
  - The average salary is 35 600 SEK per month, ranging between 27,100 SEK and 54,200 SEK.
• What education is required to become a rental agent?
  - High school education with administrative or social science focus is most common, but courses in property brokerage are advantageous.
• What is the job market like for rental agents?
  - There are 758 available jobs, but demand is expected to decrease over five years.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 99% of what men earn in the profession.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Service-mindedness, accuracy, good communication and organizational skills, and stress resilience.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional development.
• What career paths are available after a few years?
  - Team leader, administrative manager, property manager, or further training as a real estate agent.