Recent graduates getting into commercial real estate have a difficult decision to make. The industry offers a broad range of opportunities that match up with a variety of skills and personalities. It can be confusing to filter through the multitude of options: office, industrial, retail and multifamily. And then it’s time to match skills with the position: project leasing, tenant representation, property management, asset management, and investment sales to name a few. They each offer a unique challenge.
Many young professionals perceive the opportunity to achieve financial success quickly by circumventing the educational process and going straight into brokerage. This can be an option, provided you work with the right team and mentor, but simply listening to your buddies who boast of six figure incomes is not a good choice. Absent a solid foundation and well-rounded skills, you’ll miss out on the real upside of commercial real estate, opportunities that are only available to the very best and brightest in the industry.
A few things to consider when making employment decisions:
• Select a firm that is recognized for a strong training and/or mentor program.
• Make sure to have a clear picture of opportunities, responsibilities, and growth of your position.
• Get to know your team. Be clear on the leadership and their motivation for your success.
• Consider the first five years in commercial real estate your master’s program.
I’m proud of the analyst program at Stream. It’s a unique, year-long approach that unites those with the passion and desire to learn with an experienced and accomplished team—and gives them the opportunity to play a meaningful role on a broad range of projects and transactions.
Each June, some of the nation’s top graduates join Stream’s analyst program. Working with leaders in each of our real estate practices gives them a chance to develop the foundation that’s necessary to become a successful real estate practitioner. Check out this day-in-the-life blog post from one of our recent graduates for more. If you’d like additional details on the program, contact John Klinke at 214-267-0461.
