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10 Best Paying Jobs in Real Estate in 2024

Written by JD Esajian

The real estate field is rife with job opportunities for people who are motivated to be their own boss and set their own schedule. But one thing that sets real estate apart from most other “be your own boss” opportunities is that you actually have significant earnings potential. Certain jobs in certain locations will pay well over $100,000 per year.

That said, there are big differences between different real estate jobs, both in terms of the job description and the potential salary. We’re about to discuss the ten best paying jobs in real estate, based on the latest year’s averages. These are:

  1. Commercial Real Estate Developer

  2. Real Estate Attorney

  3. Mortgage Broker

  4. Real Estate Broker

  5. Property Manager

  6. Real Estate Consultant

  7. Real Estate Appraiser

  8. Corporate Real Estate Manager

  9. Luxury Real Estate Agent

  10. Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) Manager

Let’s take a closer look at each one of them.

real estate careers


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1. Commercial Real Estate Developer

Developers in the commercial real estate sector are at the forefront of creating spaces that shape cities and communities. From office buildings to retail complexes, they manage the entire development lifecycle, ensuring profitability and innovation. The role demands a blend of market insight, financial acumen, and project management skills, offering substantial rewards for successful projects.

Developers in this role focus on purchasing land, planning, and constructing commercial properties. They navigate zoning laws, secure funding, and manage the construction process to create office buildings, shopping centers, and other commercial spaces.

Being a commercial real estate developer is one of the best paying jobs in real estate. Salary ranges widely based on project scale and location, with potential earnings from mid to high six figures. According to Payscale, Commercial Real Estate Developers earn a median of $86k up to $197k a year.

2. Real Estate Attorney

Real estate attorneys are specialists who navigate the complex legal landscape of property transactions, zoning laws, and dispute resolutions. Their expertise ensures that all dealings are compliant with legal standards, providing peace of mind and security for all parties involved. This specialization requires advanced legal education and licensing, reflecting in the profession’s lucrative earnings.

Real estate attorneys handle legal aspects of real estate transactions, including sales, acquisitions, leases, and disputes. They ensure compliance with real estate laws and regulations.

Salaries can range widely, with experienced attorneys in high-demand areas earning well into six figures. According to Payscale, Real estate attorneys earn a median of $98k up to $149k a year.

3. Mortgage Broker

Mortgage brokers serve as intermediaries between borrowers and lenders, facilitating the negotiation of loans for purchasing real estate. They must possess a thorough understanding of lending products, regulatory requirements, and financial strategies.

Successful brokers combine excellent negotiation skills with financial expertise to secure the best loan terms for their clients.

Compensation is usually commission-based, with potential earnings varying significantly based on volume and loan sizes. According to Payscale, Mortgage Brokers earn a median of $65k up to $152k a year.

4. Real Estate Broker

Real estate brokers, particularly those who own or manage a brokerage, have the potential for high earnings through commissions and operational oversight. This role goes beyond sales; it encompasses team management, market analysis, and business development.

Leadership skills and a deep understanding of the real estate market are crucial for success.

They earn commissions from transactions and may also manage agents. Earnings vary widely, with successful brokers in high-demand markets making significant incomes.

5. Property Manager

Property managers ensure the operational and financial performance of real estate properties, including residential, commercial, and industrial. They handle tenant relations, maintenance, and compliance, making decisions that affect the profitability of the investments. Expertise in property law, finance, and customer service is essential.

Salaries depend on the property type and size, with experienced managers in large markets earning comfortably into six figures. According to Indeed, Property Managers earn an average of $58k up to $91k a year.

6. Real Estate Consultant

Real estate consultants offer tailored advice on investments, market trends, and development strategies. Their services are sought after by investors, developers, and corporate clients looking to maximize the value of their real estate assets. Strong analytical skills, market knowledge, and strategic thinking are key.

Real estate consultancy is arguably one of the best paying jobs in real estate, with earnings varying based on consultancy fees and project sizes and experienced consultants commanding high fees.

7. Real Estate Appraiser

Appraisers are critical in determining the value of properties, an essential step in sales, financing, and development. Specialization in commercial or high-value residential real estate can lead to higher compensation, reflecting the skill and expertise required to accurately evaluate property values.

Appraisers assess property values for sales, mortgages, and tax purposes. They inspect properties and analyze market data.

Salaries can vary, with certified appraisers who handle commercial properties generally earning more. According to Indeed, Real Estate Appraisers earn an average of $63k up to $117k a year.

8. Corporate Real Estate Manager

These professionals manage the real estate portfolios of large corporations, optimizing asset use and cost-efficiency. Their work involves strategic planning, lease management, and negotiations, directly impacting the bottom line of their organizations.

Salaries are typically solid, reflecting the high level of responsibility and impact on the company’s bottom line. According to ZipRecruiter, Corporate Real Estate Managers earn an average of $113k up to $138k a year.

9. Luxury Real Estate Agent

Specializing in the luxury segment, these agents deal with high-value properties, catering to a niche clientele. The luxury market demands exceptional service, deep market knowledge, and a strong network, offering significant commission earnings for successful transactions.

Their income is commission-based, with top agents in prime markets earning significant commissions due to the high value of the properties they sell.

According to ZipRecruiter, Luxury Real Estate Agents earn an average of $85k up to $149k a year.

10. Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) Manager

REIT Managers play a pivotal role in managing portfolios of income-generating real estate assets. Their expertise in identifying investment opportunities and strategizing for growth makes them invaluable in the real estate investment sector. This role requires a deep understanding of market trends, investment analysis, and portfolio management.

Their responsibilities include investment strategy, portfolio management, and financial oversight to maximize shareholder value.

Salaries can vary greatly depending on the size of the REIT and assets under management, often reaching into high six figures. According to ZipRecruiter, Real Estate Asset Managers earn an average of $86k up to $160k a year.

Summary

As you can see, there are plenty of job opportunities available in the real estate field. Whether you want to negotiate transactions, estimate property values, or oversee the loan process, there are plenty of possible certifications you can earn. Whatever your interests may be, it’s likely that one of the best paying jobs in real estate will be a good fit.


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