Rental leasing agent (tenant placement only)

Landlords and small investors who want a good tenant quickly but are happy to manage the property themselves.

A one-time placement fee per signed lease, often based on a portion of one month's rent or a flat amount. Some agents also charge separately for showings or tenant screening.

• Friendly, confident with strangers
• Marketing and writing good listings
• Attention to detail when screening applicants
• Flexible with evening and weekend showings

• Many states treat finding tenants for a fee as a licensed real estate activity, so check before you charge anyone
• Fair housing laws apply to your ads, how you answer inquiries and how you pick applicants
• Tenant screening may fall under federal and state credit reporting and privacy rules, so use an established screening service
• Income is lumpy because you're paid per lease, so plan for slow months
• Check your state's limits on application fees and how you handle deposits

Many states treat finding tenants for a fee as a licensed real estate activity, so check before you charge anyone. Also check fair housing rules for your ads and applicant choices, and your state's limits on application fees and deposits.

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your marketing and how you set up. Use an established screening service, and check federal and state credit reporting and privacy rules.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $600 to $3,000, depending on how many leases you place and the fees you charge. Income is lumpy because you're paid per lease, so plan for slow months.