As more candidates explore careers in commercial real estate (CRE), many ask what they should realistically expect as they step into analyst roles. Understanding how to prepare, where to look, and what to expect can help candidates approach the process strategically.
Below is a breakdown of key factors for anyone preparing to launch their CRE career—based on what professionals in the industry are seeing today.
Laying the Foundation
For candidates considering a career in commercial real estate, starting early is key. College students should take advantage of their time on campus to build both industry exposure and technical skill sets.
- Pursue internships early to gain hands-on experience, build a resume, and grow your network within the CRE community.
- Develop technical skills in tools like Excel and ARGUS, and consider completing REFM accreditation or obtaining a real estate license if applicable.
- Join real estate clubs (like NAIOP), attend local industry panels, and speak with recent graduates or professionals in the field to gain insight into various career paths.
The more exposure candidates have to different sectors within CRE—acquisitions, asset management, development, brokerage—the better positioned they’ll be to find the right fit.
Identifying Firms
As graduation approaches, identifying potential employers becomes a priority.
Start by:
- Researching active firms in your local market
- Monitoring recent transactions and hiring activity
- Staying engaged on LinkedIn, reading market reports, and following CRE news
This helps candidates stay informed on which firms are actively growing and investing—and who may be hiring.
The Hiring Process
Once opportunities are identified, candidates typically submit targeted resumes that align with a firm’s focus and values. Networking remains critical, with many using LinkedIn, alumni networks, or personal connections to get their foot in the door.
Expect the following steps:
- Introductory call – Background, career goals, and light technical questions
- Excel modeling assessment – Used to evaluate financial analysis capabilities
- Final rounds – Deeper interviews with team members, case discussions, and cultural fit evaluations
Compensation Expectations
Compensation for entry-level analysts varies by market and firm type, but most roles in asset management or acquisitions offer:
- Base salaries: $75K to $95K
- Bonus potential: Typically 10–20%, based on firm and individual performance
Compensation often increases quickly as analysts gain experience, particularly within institutional firms or active private equity platforms.
Hours & Workload
New analysts should be prepared for long hours, especially during reporting cycles or active deal periods. Expect:
- 10 to 12+ hour days
- High focus on financial modeling, underwriting, and market research
- Fast-paced learning curve
While demanding, this period is often seen as a key investment in long-term career growth.
Navigating Risk & Market Cycles
Like many industries, commercial real estate is cyclical. Early-career professionals who prioritize building technical skills, staying informed on market trends, and expanding their network are better equipped to navigate downturns and take advantage of future opportunities.
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Looking for more guidance?
Explore additional resources for breaking into CRE here: New to CRE Resources
