The real estate investment trust (REIT) industry offers a variety of jobs and opportunities for those looking to enter the field.

As of now, there are over 1,278 job positions available in REITs, according to LinkedIn data, showcasing substantial opportunities for you to explore.

With more than 225 REITs in the United States and a combined market capitalization of over $1 trillion, this booming sector provides numerous chances for growth and career advancement.

In the U.S., approximately 326,000 jobs are directly associated with REITs, while 3.4 million full-time positions are indirectly tied to the sector.

Roles within real estate investment trusts can range from asset acquisition to property management and include positions such as research analyst, director of asset management, portfolio manager, and capital markets associate.

No matter your interests or talents, there’s likely a place for you within this thriving industry.

As you consider entering the REIT field, keep in mind that job availability can vary depending on your location and market conditions.

With numerous positions available on job boards like LinkedIn, ZipRecruiter, and Indeed, you can undoubtedly find an opportunity that suits your skills and objectives.

But just how many jobs are available in real estate investment trusts?

Overview of Real Estate Investment Trusts

What Are REITs?

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) are companies that own, manage, or finance income-producing real estate properties.

By investing in REITs, you can indirectly invest in a diverse portfolio of commercial real estate properties without the need to own or manage them directly.

REITs are required to distribute at least 90% of their taxable income to shareholders annually in the form of dividends, providing you with a steady stream of income.

Types of REITs

REITs can be classified into various types based on the properties they invest in, their investment strategies, and whether they are publicly traded or not. Here are the main types of REITs:

Equity REITs: These REITs invest in and manage income-producing properties. As a shareholder, you can earn income from rents, management fees, and property sales.
Mortgage REITs (mREITs): mREITs invest in mortgages or mortgage-backed securities, providing you with income from interest payments.
Hybrid REITs: These REITs invest in a combination of both property and mortgage assets.

Additionally, REITs can be further categorized based on the types of properties they invest in:

Retail REITs deal with shopping centers, malls, and other retail spaces.
Office REITs invest in office buildings and business centers.
Industrial REITs focus on warehouses, distribution centers, and other industrial properties.
Residential REITs concentrate on multifamily housing and apartment buildings.
Healthcare REITs target hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities.
Hospitality REITs invest in hotels, resorts, and hospitality properties.
Specialized REITs cater to niche markets such as data centers, cell towers, and self-storage facilities.

How Many Jobs Are Available In Real Estate Investment Trusts? Job Opportunities in REITs

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) provide a range of job opportunities as they encompass various roles from asset management to marketing.

Here are some areas where you may find a thriving career within the REIT sector:

1. Asset Management

In asset management, you’ll aim to maximize the financial performance of your portfolio.

As an asset manager, you’ll be responsible for making critical decisions about investments, evaluating properties, and working closely with property managers.

This field offers one of the highest-paying occupations, with salaries ranging between $70,000 to $100,000.

2. Property Management

As a property manager, your primary duty will be ensuring real estate investments remain profitable and in good condition.

Your responsibilities may include overseeing maintenance, managing tenant relations, and coordinating with leasing agents.

Property managers earn an average salary of $59,927 per year.

3. Acquisitions and Development

In acquisitions, you’ll focus on identifying and purchasing potential investment property.

Development roles involve transforming existing properties into more valuable assets, creating new real estate projects, and managing construction.

Both positions require excellent deal-making and negotiation skills and can offer attractive growth opportunities and income potential.

4. Finance and Accounting

Finance and accounting positions within REITs cover various roles, including financial analysts, accountants, audit specialists, and treasury professionals.

You’ll be responsible for managing financial reporting, budgeting, and analyzing investment performance.

Opportunities in finance and accounting offer stable, secure, and well-paid careers.

5. Legal and Compliance

Legal and compliance professionals ensure REITs operate within the boundaries of law and regulatory requirements.

Roles in this field may consist of in-house legal counsel, regulatory compliance officers, or even corporate secretaries.

These positions require specialized knowledge of real estate laws, SEC regulations, and tax statutes and provide valued expertise within REITs.

6. Marketing and Communications

In marketing and communications, you’ll work closely with asset and property managers to promote properties and attract new investors.

You might focus on public relations, creating marketing materials, or developing digital campaigns to strengthen a company’s brand.

Careers in marketing and communications offer creative and diverse opportunities to make an impact on the real estate industry.

Factors Affecting Job Availability

1. Market Conditions

Market conditions play a significant role in the number of jobs available in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs).

When the economy is strong, and the demand for property rises, the opportunities within REITs also increase.

On the other hand, when the economy slows down and demand for property decreases, job openings within REITs may decline.

It’s essential to keep an eye on economic trends and real estate market performance to understand possible job availability shifts in this industry.

2. Geographical Location

The geographical location is another factor that influences job prospects within REITs.

Certain regions may have more active real estate markets, leading to more positions and opportunities opening up within REITs operating in those areas.

For instance, metropolitan areas with a higher population density will likely have more job opportunities compared to rural areas.

So, consider researching different locations and markets to identify where the highest potential for REIT job openings may be.

3. Size and Type of REIT

Different sizes and types of REITs can also impact the number of jobs available. Larger REITs may have more positions available due to their broader range of operations, while smaller REITs may have limited job openings.

Additionally, the type of REIT, such as retail, industrial, or residential, can affect the number and variety of job roles available within the company.

To increase your chances of finding a job in a REIT, explore various types and sizes of REITs to determine which one best aligns with your skills and career goals.

Searching for Jobs in REITs

1. Networking

Building a strong professional network is essential when searching for high-paying jobs in real estate investment trusts (REITs).

Reach out to your contacts in the industry and share your interests in pursuing a career in this sector.

You can also join LinkedIn groups related to REITs to connect with professionals in the field and learn of job openings.

Attend networking events, workshops, and seminars within the industry to meet like-minded individuals and potential employers.

2. Online Job Boards

Various online job boards can help you find job opportunities in REITs. Popular platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter often list numerous positions in this industry.

When searching for REIT jobs, use specific keywords such as “real estate investment trust” or “REIT” to get more relevant results.

Explore job titles like research analyst, director of asset management, portfolio manager, and capital markets associate to find positions that align with your skillset and interests.

3. Industry Events

Industry events and conferences are excellent sources of job opportunities, as they often attract major players in the real estate investment trust sector.

These events can give you access to job postings, company booths, and panel discussions featuring industry insights.

Also, attending conferences and workshops can help you understand current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the REIT space.

Make sure to engage with participants, exchange contact information, and follow up with potential employers after attending these events.

Preparing for a Career in REITs

1. Relevant Education

To start your journey in the Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) industry, you should have a strong foundation in business, finance, or real estate.

Obtaining a bachelor’s degree in fields such as finance, business administration, or real estate could provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills.

In addition, pursuing a master’s degree in real estate, finance, or a related discipline can further enhance your understanding and job prospects.

Some universities even offer specific programs focused on real estate investment and REITs.

2. Certifications and Licenses

In addition to your education, obtaining certifications can help you stand out from the competition. Here are a few certifications that are relevant to the REIT industry:

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA): This certification is a globally recognized credential in finance and investment. It covers a broad range of topics, including real estate investment and portfolio management.
Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM): This certification is tailored specifically for commercial real estate professionals. It covers topics such as investment analysis, financial analysis, and market analysis.
Real Estate Sales Agent or Broker License: Depending on your role in the REIT industry, you might need to obtain a sales agent or broker license. Licensing requirements vary by state but generally involve completing pre-licensing courses and passing an exam.

3. Gaining Experience

Experience is crucial in the REIT industry. Here are some ways you can gain valuable experience in this field:

Internships: Look for internship opportunities in real estate firms, investment companies, or REITs during your college years. This can provide you with hands-on experience and insights into the industry, as well as potential job offers upon graduation.
Networking: Attend industry events, seminars, and conferences to meet professionals in the REIT industry. Building relationships and making connections can lead to job opportunities or valuable advice from experienced professionals.

Always remember to update your resume, showcase your certifications, and highlight relevant experiences throughout your education and professional journey.

This will help you become a desirable candidate in the growing REIT industry, with more than 326,000 jobs available in the US.

The various positions you could aim for include research analyst, director of asset management, portfolio manager, or capital markets associate.

Good luck on your journey to a fulfilling career in Real Estate Investment Trusts!