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Breaking Into Commercial Real Estate

Updated June 3, 2026

If you’re reading this page, chances are you’re a student, recent graduate, or early-career professional looking to break into commercial real estate. You’ve probably spent the last few months answering the same question: “So… what’s next for your career?” Of course, you have a perfectly thought-out answer to that question… right?

For many, graduation has either just happened or is right around the corner. While some classmates may already have jobs lined up, others are still figuring out their next step. If that’s you, don’t panic. CRE is relationship-driven, and careers are rarely built overnight. Keep networking, reaching out to alumni, attending industry events, and having conversations with professionals across the industry. Every conversation helps you learn more about CRE and grow your network. At the same time, sharpen your technical skills, update your resume, and stay curious. Many professionals don’t start in the exact role or asset class they ultimately pursue. 

The resources below are designed to help, from resume tips and networking advice to insights from analysts and associates who recently broke into the industry themselves.

New to CRE? Welcome!

Breaking Into CRE: The Challenge and the Opportunity

Breaking into the commercial real estate (CRE) industry can feel like a classic “chicken or the egg” scenario: how do you land a job without experience, and how do you gain experience without a job? Whether you’re a recent college graduate or a seasoned professional, everyone in CRE has faced this hurdle at some point.

Starting out in CRE can evoke a mix of emotions—excitement, frustration, and everything in between. Since 2003, RETS has focused exclusively on recruiting and executive search in the CRE industry. If you’re thinking, Finally! A firm to help me break in!—well, not so fast. Our clients, the employers in the CRE space, rely on us to find experienced professionals. Unfortunately, internships, while valuable, typically don’t meet the experience requirements for our searches.

As someone with three college-aged children (currently at Tulane and UCLA), I understand the struggle firsthand. I often receive emails, texts, and LinkedIn messages from friends, acquaintances, and industry contacts asking for advice or assistance in helping their children or referrals get started in CRE. We genuinely want to help, but balancing those requests with the demands of our clients means we have to be selective with our time.

That’s why, after 24 years in CRE executive search, we created this resource guide to support students and young professionals eager to enter the industry. It’s your go-to hub for actionable tips, industry insights, and practical advice. We’ve already posted 3 new articles this month alone, with more on the way. Whether you’re a college student, recent grad, young professional, or a parent helping your child navigate next steps, this section is here to make your CRE journey a little less overwhelming and a lot more possible.

Now’s the time to get started. Graduation is just around the corner!

-Kent Elliott, RETS Principal 

kent@retsusa.com

Now, It’s Your Turn!

If you’ve gotten this far, connect with me on LinkedIn and the rest of the RETS team. Be sure to follow our LinkedIn page for industry updates, job postings, and insights.

Shoot me a message and mention that you’ve read this—we’d love to hear your thoughts and know if this has been helpful!