Corporate Real Estate Career Information
Explore a career in corporate real estate.
What Do Corporate Real Estate Agents Do?
Real estate has been a hot field for years, and even though the market may temporarily soften, it is still—and will continue to be—a fascinating and lucrative field for those who are persistent and talented. A corporate real estate agent works with small businesses or large corporations to purchase, sell and manage their office spaces. They also work with other professionals in the real estate field, such as title insurance agents, mortgage bankers and property managers.
Corporate real estate agents know the business world in their communities, and when they acquire a new client, they get to know the needs and budgets of that client. They take that knowledge and work to find the best location to fit a client's needs. But real estate isn't the only aspect that is important to understand. Knowledge of local zoning and tax laws, financing and tax requirements are essential to making successful corporate real estate deals and growing a successful business.
Life of a Corporate Real Estate Agent
The life of a corporate real estate agent can be intense, because they not only work during regular business hours, they also work on evenings and weekends to find and show properties and prepare documents. Negotiating skills and an understanding of the local business culture are essential, as is networking in the field. Foresight into the business trends of the area is helpful, as the real estate market is always changing and developing, depending on the business and financial climate of the area, the country and the global marketplace.
Most corporate real estate agents start with a college degree in business, finance or real estate, but it is not necessary. All states require a real estate license, and if you take a real estate training course and pass the required tests, you may become a practicing real estate agent. To advance to management, however, it is often necessary to earn an MBA in business, finance or management.
Corporate Real Estate Career Path
| Entry Level | Mid Level | Senior Level | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Types of Roles | Corporate real estate sales agent or broker, property manager | Corporate real estate sales manager, managing broker | CEO corporate real estate agency | |
| Experience | 0 – 3 years | 4 – 8 years | 10+ years | |
| Getting There |
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| Salary* | $30,252 – $50,868 | $35,744 – $93,582 | $110,000+ | |
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* Depends on company size, specific job and location
Sources: Payscale.com, 2010; Salary.com; Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2009