Best Paying Jobs In Real Estate Investment Trusts

Written by Mark DeGrasso

June 8, 2023

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are a popular investment vehicle for those looking to invest in real estate without owning physical property. With this, it’s no surprise that the field of REITs is also home to some of the most lucrative jobs in the industry. In this article, we’ll highlight the best-paying jobs within REITs, provide an overview of the field, and offer tips on how to apply for high-paying jobs.

An Overview of The Real Estate Investment Trusts Field

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are a popular way to invest in real estate without actually owning property. A REIT is a company that owns and operates income-generating real estate. These properties can range from residential buildings to commercial real estate such as shopping centers, office buildings, and warehouses. By investing in a REIT, individuals can earn income through the rental income and property appreciation generated by the properties owned by the REIT.

REITs were created in 1960 as a way to give individual investors access to large-scale, income-producing real estate assets. Since then, the field of REITs has grown significantly, with over 200 publicly traded REITs in the United States alone. The REIT industry has also expanded globally, with REITs now operating in countries such as Canada, Australia, and Japan.

REITs are required by law to distribute at least 90% of their taxable income to shareholders in the form of dividends. This makes REITs an attractive option for investors seeking consistent income. In addition, REITs offer a number of tax advantages, such as the ability to deduct dividends paid to shareholders from their taxable income.

The field of REITs is highly competitive, with a diverse range of roles available to those looking to start a career in the industry. Some of the most popular jobs within the REIT industry include property management, asset management, and real estate development. Property managers are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the properties owned by the REIT, while asset managers are responsible for managing the REIT’s portfolio of properties and ensuring that they are generating maximum returns. Real estate developers are responsible for identifying and acquiring new properties for the REIT to add to its portfolio.

Overall, the field of REITs offers investors a unique opportunity to invest in real estate without the hassle of actually owning and managing property. With a wide range of roles available, the REIT industry is also a great place for individuals interested in pursuing a career in real estate.

Top 9 Highest Paying Real Estate Investment Trust Jobs

  1. REIT Chief Executive Officer (CEO): The CEO is responsible for making major corporate decisions and managing the overall operations and resources of a company. They act as the main point of communication between the board of directors and corporate operations. Salary Range: $600,000 – $3,000,000+
  2. REIT Chief Financial Officer (CFO): The CFO is responsible for managing the company’s finances, including financial planning, risk management, record-keeping, and financial reporting. They also are in charge of investment decisions and capital structures. Salary Range: $350,000 – $1,000,000+
  3. REIT Chief Investment Officer (CIO): The CIO is responsible for managing and supervising the investment activities, creating plans and strategies for investments, and maintaining relationships with investors. Salary Range: $300,000 – $900,000+
  4. REIT Portfolio Manager: They are responsible for making investment decisions and maintaining investment strategies that align with the company’s risk profile and investment goals. They may manage a portfolio of properties and oversee acquisition and disposal decisions. Salary Range: $150,000 – $400,000+
  5. REIT Asset Manager: The Asset Manager is responsible for managing real estate assets to maximize profitability. This role involves making decisions about property operations, leasing, and physical maintenance. Salary Range: $100,000 – $300,000
  6. REIT Analyst: REIT Analysts evaluate financial data and public records of companies to determine the company’s value by forecasting its revenue and profit potential. Salary Range: $80,000 – $150,000
  7. REIT Property Manager: Property Managers oversee the operation, maintenance, and administration of property rentals for a REIT. This can involve handling tenants, managing rental operations, and overseeing maintenance. Salary Range: $60,000 – $100,000
  8. REIT Legal Counsel: The Legal Counsel provides legal advice on a range of issues, ensures the company is compliant with industry laws and regulations, and handles legal disputes and litigations. Salary Range: $150,000 – $350,000
  9. REIT Leasing Manager: Leasing Managers work to ensure the company’s properties are occupied with tenants. They negotiate leases, show properties, and conduct background checks on potential tenants. Salary Range: $55,000 – $90,000

Advice on How To Apply For High Paying Jobs In The Real Estate Investment Trusts Field

The real estate investment trusts (REIT) field is a highly competitive industry. However, with the right education, experience, and networking skills, you can land a high-paying job in this field. Here are some tips to help you apply for high-paying jobs in the REIT field:

Earn a College Degree

One of the essential steps to landing a high-paying job in the REIT field is to earn a college degree. Many employers require candidates to have a degree in business, finance, or a related field. A college degree demonstrates that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the job.

Moreover, a college degree is a great way to gain exposure to the real estate industry. You can take courses in real estate finance, property management, and real estate law. You can also participate in internships to gain practical experience in the field.

Gain Relevant Work Experience

In addition to a college degree, it’s important to gain relevant work experience through internships or entry-level positions. This experience demonstrates that you have practical knowledge of the industry and can apply your skills to real-world situations.

Some of the entry-level positions in the REIT field include property manager, leasing agent, and real estate analyst. These positions provide an opportunity to learn about the industry, develop skills, and gain exposure to different aspects of the business.

Network

Networking is another important aspect of finding a job in the REIT field. Attend industry events and connect with professionals on social media platforms such as LinkedIn. It’s also beneficial to stay up-to-date on industry news and trends by reading industry publications and attending conferences.

Networking can help you learn about job openings, get referrals, and meet people who can provide valuable advice and guidance. It’s important to build relationships with people in the industry and maintain those relationships over time.

Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter

When applying for a job, be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills. Research the company and position beforehand to show that you are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the opportunity.

Highlight your accomplishments and skills that are relevant to the job. Use specific examples to demonstrate your experience and achievements. Also, make sure your resume and cover letter are error-free and easy to read.

In conclusion, landing a high-paying job in the REIT field requires a combination of education, experience, and networking skills. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of getting hired and building a successful career in the real estate investment trusts field.

Frequently Asked Questions on Finding a High Paying Job In The Real Estate Investment Trusts Field

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in the real estate investment trusts (REIT) field, you likely have a lot of questions about what to expect. Here are some frequently asked questions about finding a high paying job in the REIT field:

Q: What is the average salary for a job in the REIT field?

A: Salaries in the REIT field vary depending on the role and level of experience. According to data from Glassdoor, the average salary for a job in the REIT field is around $95,000 per year. However, it’s important to note that salaries can range from around $50,000 to over $200,000 depending on the specific job and company.

Q: Is it necessary to have a degree to work in the REIT field?

A: While a college degree is not always required, it can be beneficial in securing a job in the REIT field. Many employers prefer candidates with a degree in business, finance, or a related field. A degree can also help you stand out from other candidates and demonstrate your commitment to your career.

Q: What are the most important skills for a job in the REIT field?

A: Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of financial markets are important skills for those working in the REIT field. Additionally, effective communication and teamwork skills are crucial for success in the industry. It’s also important to have a passion for real estate and a desire to learn and grow in your career.

While the REIT field can be competitive, it’s also a field with a lot of potential for growth and success. Whether you’re interested in working as an analyst, portfolio manager, or in another role, there are many opportunities to build a successful career in this exciting industry.

One of the benefits of working in the REIT field is the variety of roles available. For example, you could work as an analyst, researching and analyzing market trends to help your company make informed investment decisions. Alternatively, you could work as a portfolio manager, responsible for managing a portfolio of real estate assets and making strategic decisions about buying and selling properties.

Another benefit of working in the REIT field is the potential for career growth. As you gain experience and develop your skills, you may have the opportunity to take on more senior roles within your company or move to a different company with more responsibilities and higher pay.

Overall, working in the REIT field can be a lucrative and rewarding career choice for those interested in real estate and finance. With a diverse range of roles and opportunities for growth, there’s never been a better time to consider a career in this exciting industry.