How to Be a Repo Man

A repossession agent or "repo man" is hired by a debt collection agency to locate and recover the property upon which the debt is owed. Repo men usually work for repo companies, although they sometimes work as independent contractors [source: QuickRepo.com].

In order to become a repo man (or woman) you should:

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  • Be a real "people person"
  • Have a calm demeanor and be able to calm down others
  • Be a problem-solver
  • Be good at detecting when people are lying
  • Be perseverant
  • Be organized
  • Be prepared to work odd hours
  • Be prepared to repossess property from someone larger than you are [source: MyRepoJob.com]

In order to become a repo man (or woman), you'll need to:

  • Learn about your state's licensing regulations and other state laws related to repossession.
  • Obtain the necessary licenses.
  • Obtain a driver or a truck (a tow truck if you plan to repossess cars).
  • Learn how to locate a missing person.
  • Print up business cards and brochures.
  • Find out the going rate for repossession in your area.
  • Contact repossession agencies to try to get a foot in the door.
  • Build up a database of clients, if you want to work independently.[source: Thomas]

Here are some ways to drum up clients if you want to be an independent repossession agent:

  • Send fliers to banks, loan companies and car dealerships.
  • Telephone the collection managers at these companies.
  • Make in-person sales calls.

Once you repossess an item, you must:

  • Report the repossession to the police.
  • Complete an inventory and condition report.
  • Prevent litigation or claims to a repossessed item, by making sure you have authorization to repossess the property with a "hold harmless" agreement signed by the client.

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