What are Real Estate Jobs?
Real estate jobs include professionals managing various aspects of real estate assets (residential, commercial, or industrial buildings and land). They are the go-to individuals for buying, selling, and renting properties. They also file property taxes, manage mortgage payments, and budget for repairs and maintenance.
So, whether you are new to real estate or already working in the field, this guide will help you explore the various real estate accounting jobs available.
Top 13 Real Estate Jobs
Here is a list of top real estate jobs:
- Real Estate Analyst
- Real Estate Appraiser
- Real Estate Agent
- Real Estate Development Manager
- Real Estate Asset Manager
- Property Accountant
- Real Estate Manager
- Real Estate Attorney
- Leasing Agent
- Home Inspector
- Realtor
- Mortgage Broker
- Foreclosure Specialist
Let us look in detail at what real estate professionals do, their roles, the skills they need, and more.
1. Real Estate Analyst
A real estate analyst is someone who studies the property market to determine if the prices are going up or down and what people want. Their job is to help investors and others decide whether buying or selling properties is a good idea. They do this by using tools to determine a property’s worth and risk.
Annual Salary Range: $50k – $87k
Job Roles and Responsibilities:
- Research real estate markets to find trends and opportunities and analyze the finances of potential investments.
- Check the legal and environmental aspects of deals and also determine the value of properties.
- Make financial models to predict how investments will perform.
- Help develop investment strategies as well as identify and manage risks.
- Communicate findings and recommendations to clients, ensure regulatory compliance, and monitor/manage real estate portfolios.
Requirements:
- At least a bachelor’s degree in finance, business administration, or a related field.
- Employers may specify one to three years of experience in commercial real estate, depending on the seniority of the position.
2. Real Estate Appraiser
Real estate appraisers or assessors figure out how much properties are worth. They look at where the property is, its size, its condition, and what similar properties sell for. They visit properties, take measurements, and check market trends to give accurate values. In order to work in any country, real estate appraisers will need to meet relevant state qualifications — those in Victoria, Australia, will need to obtain the real estate license to carry out their duties.
Appraisers work for banks or real estate firms, while assessors help governments set property taxes. Their work is important for buying/selling homes, taxes, and planning new buildings.
Annual Salary Range: $43k – $124k
Job Roles and Responsibilities:
- Examine the location, size, condition, and comparable sales to determine the value of residential, commercial, or industrial properties.
- Conduct market research to understand factors affecting property values in specific areas.
- Analyze collected data and apply valuation methods to determine the property’s worth accurately.
- Communicate valuation reports to clients, including banks, mortgage lenders, real estate firms, government agencies, or individual property owners.
- Handle property valuation appeals and attend hearings to defend valuation decisions if necessary.
Requirements:
- You will need good math knowledge, analysis skills, and attention to detail.
- A bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as real estate, finance, or economics.
- Some jobs might require more schooling, like a master’s degree, especially for higher-level roles.
- You also have to get licensed or certified by your state, which means taking classes, getting practical experience with a licensed appraiser, and passing a state exam. And don’t forget about continuous self-education through various property courses and training.
3. Real Estate Agent
Real estate agents help homeowners and tenants buy, sell, or rent properties. They show homes or commercial spaces, negotiate deals, and guide clients. They assess property values and recent sales in an area to determine fair prices for buying and selling real estate. Subsequently, they negotiate to satisfy all parties involved in property transfers. For prospective real estate agents, gaining proper education is crucial. To practice in New York, one can take advantage of a comprehensive real estate license NY course that equips candidates with essential industry knowledge and prepares them to pass their state exams successfully. Armed with a solid foundation and the necessary credentials, individuals can confidently pursue a fulfilling career as real estate agents, helping clients navigate property markets and make informed investment decisions. They usually earn through a commission that they get on the property’s final price.
Annual Salary Range: $28k – $123k
Job Roles and Responsibilities:
- Provide expertise on property values and show listed properties to potential buyers to help clients make informed decisions.
- Develop and implement marketing strategies to advertise properties effectively, including online listings, signage, and open houses.
- Guide clients through real estate transactions, including drafting contracts, coordinating inspections, and facilitating closing procedures.
- Regularly visit properties to check maintenance and ensure properties are clean and in good condition.
Requirements:
- Take a state license exam and obtain a license in every state where you plan to practice.
- Work under a brokerage to receive training from real estate brokerages on how to list and sell property.
4. Real Estate Development Manager
A real estate development manager plans and oversees the construction of new buildings. They are in charge of ensuring the building project goes well from beginning to end. Moreover, they also have to deal with clients, ensuring that they answer their queries and deal with any issues that arise.
Annual Salary Range: $65k – $154k
Job Roles and Responsibilities:
- Evaluate potential properties for purchase, create project documents, and support senior managers in decision-making processes.
- They handle government paperwork, manage budgets, hire construction workers, and ensure everything is done correctly and on time.
- They talk to project stakeholders, like investors and builders, to keep everyone updated.
- Oversee the development process and prepare regular updates and materials for board approval.
Requirements:
- They must have a bachelor’s degree in the related field.
- Prior experience in real estate development or a similar role is essential.
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills for effective communication with team and stakeholders.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
5. Real Estate Asset Manager
A real estate asset manager is a supervisor who trains and guides a team of analysts. The team’s main role is to optimize how companies handle real estate assets. They also have to resolve any issues related to an organization’s assets.
Annual Salary Range: $58k – $138k
Job Roles and Responsibilities:
- Asset managers plan and execute real estate strategies by researching markets, analyzing properties, etc.
- Regularly collaborate with property managers, attorneys, architects, brokers, etc.
- Asset managers collaborate with property managers to maintain long-term properties, focusing on maximizing revenue.
- They identify and address risks like property damage or regulatory issues, take preventive measures, and conduct inspections.
Requirements:
- Master’s degree in business administration (MBA).
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Skills required include asset management, attention to detail, strategic planning, and creative thinking.
6. Property Accountant
Property accountants are accountants that specifically handle real estate finances. They handle everything finance-related, from keeping track of expenses to preparing financial documents. Property accountants work closely with property managers to ensure everything is running smoothly financially.
Annual Salary Range: $48k – $78k
Job Roles and Responsibilities:
- They analyze real estate property’s finances and conduct financial maintenance for various properties.
- They have to maintain financial records of all properties and create regular financial reports for authorities as well as shareholders.
- Property accountants calculate monthly management fees, help with budgeting, and manage debt payments.
- They are also responsible for resolving any balance sheet discrepancies, preparing taxes, and staying up to date on financial laws.
Requirements:
- They do require a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field.
- Prior experience in property management may be preferred.
- Excellent interpersonal skills for communication with other departments regarding property financial matters.
- Familiarity with specialized accounting software.
7. Real Estate Manager
A real estate manager coordinates administrative departments, including finances, customer support, and valuations, to ensure smooth operations. They are also responsible for communicating with prospective clients.
Annual Salary Range: $51k – $138k
Job Roles and Responsibilities:
- Manage property leases, including analysis, creation, renewal, and monitoring of other related activities.
- Coordinate with vendors, handle tenant concerns, collect rent, and prepare legal notices as needed.
- Supervise technical and maintenance staff in managing budgets, property inspection, marketing, and more.
- Learn project coordination, negotiation, and problem-solving and acquire skills to optimize property management processes.
Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree in property management or a related field is mandatory.
- Previous managerial experience may be preferred.
- Strong interpersonal skills are essential.
- Attention to detail is crucial.
- Ability to work well as part of a team.
- Capability to work effectively with minimal supervision.
8. Real Estate Attorney
A real estate attorney deals with legal matters concerning property. They help with tasks like reviewing contracts, checking property titles, and guiding clients through real estate transactions. They also assist with zoning laws, land use, and property development projects. Essentially, they protect their clients’ interests and make sure real estate deals happen correctly.
Annual Salary Range: $60k – $149k
Job Roles and Responsibilities:
- Real estate attorneys monitor legal risks in property documentation and advise clients accordingly. To ensure compliance, they interpret laws, regulations, and rulings relevant to real estate transactions.
- They draft and negotiate real estate transactions, including purchase agreements, leases, and amendments. It involves ensuring that they have all necessary approvals before executing transactions.
- Real estate attorneys represent clients in property purchases, sales, and foreclosures, ensuring legal compliance and protecting their interests throughout the process.
- Real estate attorneys work to resolve disputes such as title issues or contract problems. It may involve legal representation in court, gathering facts, and pursuing a resolution beneficial to their client.
Requirements:
- Completion of a law degree from an accredited law school.
- Must admit to the bar in the relevant jurisdiction(s) where they want to practice.
- Specialization or experience in real estate law is preferred.
- Ability to identify potential legal risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.
9. Leasing Agent
Essentially, a leasing agent helps landlords rent out their properties and tenants find the perfect space they need. They make renting property easier for landlords and tenants by managing the process efficiently. They advertise, screen tenants, negotiate leases, handle paperwork, and resolve issues during the lease. They also keep up with rental market trends to assist landlords in setting fair prices.
Annual Salary Range: $29k – $75k
Job Roles and Responsibilities:
- Leasing agents promote available rental places online and offline to attract tenants. They also check potential tenants’ backgrounds to ensure they are suitable renters.
- Leasing agents give interested people tours of rental units, explaining details and answering questions. They also talk with landlords and tenants to agree on rental terms like price and lease length.
- Leasing agents complete lease agreements and ensure that everything is signed correctly. They are the go-to person for tenants’ questions and concerns and handle rent payments and maintenance requests.
- Leasing agents regularly inspect rental places to make sure they are in good shape. They keep up with what is happening in the rental market to help set prices and attract tenants.
Requirements:
- Educational requirements vary; some employers accept a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Companies specializing in commercial real estate leasing may prefer candidates with a college degree.
- Obtain a realtor’s license or certification through the National Apartment Leasing Organization to enhance employment prospects.
10. Home Inspector
Home inspectors play a key role in ensuring you know what you are getting into when buying a home. A home inspector is someone you hire to check out a house before you buy it. They look at everything from the structure to the plumbing and electrical systems to make sure everything is in good shape. After their inspection, they will give you a report detailing any problems they have found. It helps you decide whether to buy the house or negotiate repairs with the seller.
Annual Salary Range: $34k – $78k
Job Roles and Responsibilities:
- They inspect residential properties like houses, townhouses, and condos, checking the structure and systems for any issues or problems.
- Their main responsibility is to evaluate the building’s condition, including the foundation, roof, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems, to identify safety hazards or code violations.
- They also take photographs and prepare detailed reports for clients, outlining findings and recommendations based on industry standards and best practices.
Requirements:
- Some inspectors may require an advanced degree in a related field, while others may only need a high school diploma.
- Some states mandate a state-issued license for practicing as a home inspector.
11. Realtor
A realtor helps sellers list their properties and buyers find new homes. They guide you through the process of buying or selling property while making sure you get the best sale price.
Annual Salary Range: $29k – $150k
Job Roles and Responsibilities:
- To tailor the search process, gather detailed client information about desired home features, financial capabilities, and preferred neighborhoods.
- Use the multiple listing service to find properties that match clients’ preferences and budgets, then present them with suitable options.
- Screen and qualify potential buyers before arranging property viewings to ensure efficient time use and protect sellers’ interests.
- Act as the primary negotiator for clients, guiding them through offers, contracts, and agreements while advising on suitable courses of action.
- Implement targeted advertising strategies, conduct open houses, and leverage listing services to promote properties effectively.
Requirements:
- A certification is necessary to practice in most jurisdictions.
- A realtor must be personable, outgoing, and have strong customer service skills.
12. Mortgage Broker
A mortgage broker acts as a middleman in the loan process by connecting home loan seekers with potential lenders. They utilize their knowledge of various lenders and their loan options to help borrowers find the most suitable mortgage terms.
Annual Salary Range: $39k – $150k
Job Roles and Responsibilities:
- Establish strong ties with mortgage lenders and real estate agents to streamline transactions.
- The broker collects details about the borrower’s income, expectations, and affordability and assists in searching for appropriate lenders.
- Collect and review documents, credit histories, and employment verifications from potential homebuyers to determine eligibility for mortgage loans.
- Help clients apply for mortgage loans and negotiate favorable terms, interest rates, and fees with lenders to ensure advantageous deals.
- The broker facilitates clear communication between the bank and the borrower, striving for a swift decision-making and signing process.
Requirements:
- Mandatory certification and licensing by the local jurisdiction.
- A bachelor’s or associate’s degree is preferred by many employers.
13. Foreclosure Specialist
A foreclosure specialist manages the process of repurposing a property due to mortgage default. They handle all aspects of foreclosure, including legal proceedings, property assessments, and coordination with lenders and borrowers. Their role is to ensure that the foreclosure process complies with all legal requirements and timelines. Additionally, they may assist in the sale of foreclosed properties to recover the lender’s investment.
Annual Salary Range: $32k – $52k
Job Roles and Responsibilities:
- Determine if accounts are eligible for foreclosure, obtain necessary documents, and oversee the foreclosure process.
- Ensure that invoices, breach letters, inspections, and other foreclosure processes are occurring promptly.
- They ensure adherence to local, state, and federal regulations and manage all necessary documentation and communication with relevant parties.
- Support and guide borrowers throughout the foreclosure process, including reviewing financial situations, negotiating repayment plans, and coordinating with legal and real estate professionals.
Requirements:
- Adhere to company policies and legal regulations, particularly in mortgage law, is essential
- A high school diploma or equivalent qualification is the minimum educational requirement
- Prior experience in a related position is often necessary
- Proficiency in basic mathematical calculations is necessary for tasks such as financial calculations and data analysis
Career Growth and Opportunities
Career growth in real estate accounting is promising for those who excel in their skills and show commitment to professional development. Here’s how you can advance:
- Focus on Specialization: Real estate accounting offers opportunities for specialization in areas such as commercial real estate, residential property management, or real estate investment. Professionals can become experts in their field by focusing on a particular niche and command higher salaries.
- Entrepreneurship: Some experts start real estate accounting firms or consultancies, using their knowledge to provide specialized services to real estate clients. Due to the international expansion of real estate markets, real estate accountants can also find international work opportunities with multinational companies or in global financial centers.
- Get More Education and Certifications: Getting more advanced degrees, like a Master of Science in Accounting or becoming a Certified Public Accountant, can help you get higher-level jobs.
- Career Progression Opportunities: Experienced real estate accountants can progress into management roles such as Accounting Manager, Financial Controller, or Director of Finance. In these positions, they oversee financial operations, manage teams, and make strategic decisions to optimize financial performance.
- Consider Consulting: Use your expertise to help real estate firms or investors with financial advice and planning. Stay updated on new accounting technology and software to stay competitive.
Final Thoughts
With promising career growth opportunities, including specialization, entrepreneurship, and advanced education, individuals can advance in roles such as real estate development managers, asset managers, analysts, investment accountants, tax accountants, managers, agents, appraisers, and assessors. By acquiring the requisite skills, qualifications, and industry knowledge, professionals can thrive in this dynamic and rewarding field, contributing to the success and sustainability of real estate ventures.
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