As we pass the midpoint of 2025, the CRE hiring market tells a story of contrast—some roles are surging, others are stalling. At RETS Associates, we’ve analyzed LinkedIn polling data, internal placement activity, anonymized client surveys, and industry reports to create a clear picture of where hiring is headed—and where it’s hit pause.
What’s Hot
Hiring momentum continues in industrial/logistics, and multifamily sectors. Asset managers with lease-up experience, industrial leasing experts and some acquisition professionals are especially in demand. With capital starting to selectively re-enter the market, deal-side talent with underwriting and market intelligence skills is seeing renewed interest—particularly in Sun Belt markets.
What’s Cooling
The office sector remains sluggish. Many firms are maintaining headcount or quietly reducing it, especially for asset and property management roles. Markets in the Northeast and Midwest are showing the sharpest slowdowns, with fewer backfills and longer time-to-hire metrics.
Compensation Shifts
While base salaries are holding steady, bonus structures are under pressure—especially in roles tied to deal flow. Some firms are shifting compensation toward equity or long-term incentive plans to retain top talent without inflating overhead.
Regional Trends
The Sun Belt—particularly Texas, Arizona, and Florida—is still leading in hiring velocity, thanks to sustained population growth and ongoing development activity. By contrast, higher-cost, slower-growth regions like the Northeast are seeing a flattening or decline in new postings.
What This Means for You
If you’re hiring: move fast on top candidates in high-demand functions.
If you’re job-seeking: focus your efforts where capital and construction are still flowing. And for both sides of the table—understand what today’s compensation packages really look like.
