The best-paying jobs in Real Estate Investment Trusts are Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and Director of Acquisitions. These roles require specialized skills and extensive experience in real estate, finance, and management, which command high salaries.
What Do REIT Jobs Pay?
According to Glassdoor, the general average annual salary for REIT jobs in the United States is around $94,000. Entry-level positions, such as Receptionist or Administrative Assistant, receive an average annual salary of around $35,000. In contrast, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and other specialized positions earn an average annual salary of around $430,000.
15 Highest-Paying Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Jobs with Good Salaries
A Chief Executive Officer (CEO) leads the REIT Company and makes major corporate decisions. They earn a high salary because of their high level of responsibility and decision-making power. This is one of the best career paths in Real Estate Investment Trusts.
Leadership, strategic planning, financial management, communication, and problem-solving skills are some of the skills a CEO needs. A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business or a related field is the educational requirement. Many years of experience in senior management positions is also required.
The job outlook is positive with growth rate of 4% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 19,500 new job opportunities in the US.
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Average Annual Salary: $260,000
A Chief Financial Officer oversees the financial operations of the company and ensures financial stability and growth. They earn a high salary because of the high level of responsibility involved and financial expertise required. Financial management, strategic planning, leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills are some of the skills a CFO needs.
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field, and many years of experience in financial management positions are also required. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 4% increase from 2021 to 2031. It will produce about 20,500 new job opportunities in the US.
Director of Acquisitions
Average Annual Salary: $200,000
A Director of Acquisitions identifies and evaluates real estate investment opportunities and negotiates deals for the company. They earn a high salary because of their expertise in real estate investing and negotiation. Real estate investing, financial analysis, negotiation, market research, and communication skills are some of the skills a Director of Acquisitions needs.
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Real Estate, Finance, or a related field, and many years of experience in real estate acquisitions are also required. The job outlook is positive with growth rate of 7% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 8,400 new job opportunities in the US.
Chief Investment Officer (CIO)
Average Annual Salary: $195,000
A Chief Investment Officer manages the company’s investment portfolio and ensures profitable investments. They earn a high salary because of their expertise in investment management. Investment management, financial analysis, risk management, leadership, and communication skills are some of the skills a Chief Investment Officer needs.
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Finance, Economics, or a related field, and many years of experience in investment management are also required. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 4% increase from 2021 to 2031. It will produce about 2,800 new job opportunities in the US.
An Asset Manager manages the company’s real estate assets, ensuring profitability and growth. They earn a high salary because of their expertise in real estate management. Real estate management, financial analysis, risk management, leadership, and communication skills are the skills an Asset Manager needs.
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Real Estate, Finance, or a related field, and many years of experience in real estate asset management, are also required. The job outlook is positive with growth rate of 7% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 8,400 new job opportunities in the US.
Property Portfolio Manager
Average Annual Salary: $140,000
A Property Portfolio Manager oversees a portfolio of properties and ensures profitability and growth. They earn a high salary due to their expertise in real estate management. Real estate management, financial analysis, risk management, leadership, and communication skills are some of the skills a Property Portfolio Manager needs.
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Real Estate, Finance, or a related field, and many years of experience in real estate management, are also required. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 7% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will produce over 8,400 new job opportunities in the US.
Real Estate Investment Analyst
Average Annual Salary: $125,000
A Real Estate Investment Analyst analyzes real estate investment opportunities and provides recommendations to the company. They earn a high salary due to their expertise in real estate investing and analysis. Real estate investing, financial analysis, market research, and communication skills are some of the skills they need.
A Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Real Estate, Finance, or a related field, and many years of experience in real estate analysis, are also required. The job outlook is positive with growth rate of 7% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 8,400 new job opportunities in the US.
Real Estate Development Manager
Average Annual Salary: $120,000
A Real Estate Development Manager manages real estate development projects from start to finish. They earn a high salary due to their expertise in real estate development. Real estate development, project management, financial analysis, risk management, and communication skills are some of the skills they need.
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Real Estate, Construction Management, or a related field, and many years of experience in real estate development, are also required. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 7% increase from 2021 to 2031. It will produce about 8,400 new job opportunities across the US.
Real Estate Attorney
Average Annual Salary: $115,000
A Real Estate Attorney provides legal advice and support to the company in real estate transactions. They earn a high salary due to their high level of expertise in real estate law and complex legal transactions. Legal expertise, negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills are some of the skills a Real Estate Attorney needs.
A Juris Doctor (JD) degree and many years of experience in real estate law are also required. The job outlook is positive with growth rate of 4% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 7,900 new job opportunities across the US.
A Real Estate Broker facilitates real estate transactions between buyers and sellers. They earn a high salary due to their high level of expertise in real estate markets and transactions, and the potential for significant commission earnings. Sales, negotiation, communication, and marketing skills are some of the skills a Real Estate Broker needs.
A High School Diploma or equivalent, completion of a Real Estate Broker training program, and a Real Estate Broker’s license, are also required. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 2% increase from 2021 to 2031. It will produce about 8,300 new job opportunities in the US.
Construction Manager
Average Annual Salary: $107,510
A Construction Manager oversees the construction and renovation of real estate properties owned by the REIT. They work closely with architects and contractors, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the desired specifications. A Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field is the educational requirement.
Skills a Construction Manager needs include leadership, strategic planning, communication, and financial management skills. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects an 8% increase from 2021 to 2031. It will produce about 46,200 new job opportunities in the US.
Real Estate Sales Manager
Average Annual Salary: $105,000
A Real Estate Sales Manager manages a team of real estate agents and oversees sales goals and strategies. They earn a high salary because of the high level of responsibility and their expertise in real estate sales management. Sales management, leadership, communication, and marketing skills are some of the skills a Real Estate Sales Manager needs.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field, and many years of experience in Real Estate Sales Management, are also required. The job outlook is positive with growth rate of 5% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 8,300 new job opportunities in the US.
Real Estate Investment Banker
Average Annual Salary: $104,000
A Real Estate Investment Banker provides financial advice and support to companies in real estate transactions. These include mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings (IPOs), and debt and equity offerings. They earn a high salary due to the potential for significant earnings through bonuses and commissions. Financial analysis, market research, negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills are some of the skills a Real Estate Investment Banker needs.
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Finance, Economics, or a related field, and many years of experience in Investment Banking, are also required. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 5% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will create over 7,300 new job opportunities across the US.
Real Estate Appraiser
Average Annual Salary: $103,000
A Real Estate Appraiser estimates the value of real estate properties for buyers, sellers, and lenders. They earn a high salary due to the potential for high earnings through specialization and increased workload. Real estate appraisal, financial analysis, communication, and problem-solving skills are some of the skills a Real Estate Appraiser needs.
A Bachelor’s Degree and Certification or License as a Real Estate Appraiser, are also required. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 3% increase from 2021 to 2031. It will produce about 1,800 new job opportunities in the US.
A Real Estate Inspector inspects real estate properties for buyers, sellers, and lenders to ensure compliance with regulations and standards. They earn a high salary due to the potential for high earnings through specialization and increased workload. Real estate inspection, communication, and problem-solving skills are some of the skills a Real Estate Inspector needs.
A High School Diploma or equivalent, and Certification or License as a Real Estate Inspector, are also required. The job outlook is positive with growth rate of 3% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 1,500 new job opportunities in the US.
5 Highest-Paying Entry-Level Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Jobs with Good Salaries
A Real Estate Analyst analyzes real estate data to identify trends and opportunities for investment and development. They earn a high salary due to the high level of analytical and technical skills required. Data analysis, financial modeling, and communication skills are some of the skills a Real Estate Analyst needs.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Real Estate, Finance, or a related field is also required. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 5% increase from 2021 to 2031. It will produce about 5,200 new job opportunities across the US.
Property Manager
Average Annual Salary: $63,000
A Property Manager oversees the operations of real estate properties, including maintenance, leasing, and tenant relations. They earn a high salary due to the high level of responsibility for the success of the properties. Management, communication, and problem-solving skills are some of the skills a Property Manager needs.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Real Estate, Business, or a related field is also required. The job outlook is positive with growth rate of 3% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 11,800 new job opportunities in the US.
Leasing Consultant
Average Annual Salary: $61,000
A Leasing Consultant handles leasing of real estate properties and interacts with potential and current tenants to meet their needs. They earn a high salary due to their level of responsibility for attracting and retaining tenants. Sales, customer service, and communication skills are some of the skills a Leasing Consultant needs.
A High School Diploma or equivalent, along with relevant training and work experience in leasing, are also required. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 4% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will produce over 12,800 new job opportunities across the US.
Real Estate Marketer
Average Annual Salary: $60,500
A Real Estate Marketer is responsible for developing and implementing marketing strategies for real estate properties and services. They work closely with senior marketing professionals to create marketing materials and coordinate advertising campaigns across multiple channels.
They earn a good salary due to their expertise in marketing and branding, with potential for high earnings through bonuses and commissions. Skills required for this role include marketing, communication, and organizational abilities.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, Advertising, Real Estate, or a related field is typically required. The job outlook for Real Estate Marketers is positive, with a projected growth rate of 8% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 5,500 new job opportunities across the US.
A Real Estate Appraiser determines the value of real estate properties for various purposes, such as sale, taxation, and financing. They earn a high salary due to their high level of expertise in real estate valuation. Valuation, data analysis, and communication skills are some of the skills a Real Estate Appraiser needs.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Real Estate or a related field, and Certification or License in the state of employment, are also required. The job outlook is positive with growth rate of 3% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 2,800 new job opportunities across the US.
How to Get a High-Paying Job in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
To get a high-paying job in the Real Estate Investment Trust industry, there are certain steps you need to take.
5 actionable steps on how to get a high-paying job in REITs:
Pursue advanced education
Pursue advanced education, such as an MBA or a specialized certification. This will increase your marketability and differentiate yourself from other candidates.
Focus on a specific niche
Identify a particular niche within the REIT industry, such as healthcare or hospitality, and develop expertise in that area. Employers are more likely to pay a premium for specialists who have a deep understanding of a particular asset class or sector.
Be willing to relocate
Relocate to a city with a high concentration of REITs, such as New York City, Chicago, or Los Angeles. Being in a location with a high concentration of employers can increase your chances of finding a high-paying job.
Gain international experience
Gain international experience by working for a REIT or real estate company in another country. Employers value candidates who have global experience and can navigate different cultural and business environments.
Seek out entrepreneurial opportunities
Start your own REIT career path or real estate company. Entrepreneurial experience can demonstrate your business acumen and management skills, which are highly valued in the REIT industry.
Where to Find the Best Paying jobs in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
There are several ways you can find the best-paying jobs in REIT.
Here are 5 premium sources dedicated to finding the best paying jobs in REITs:
Spencer Stuart
Spencer Stuart is a global executive search and leadership consulting firm that helps organizations find top executive talent. They have a real estate practice that specializes in recruiting for senior-level positions in the REIT industry.
Heidrick & Struggles
Heidrick & Struggles is another global executive search firm that offers specialized expertise in the real estate and REIT industries. They have a team of consultants dedicated to helping clients find top talent for senior-level positions.
Korn Ferry
Korn Ferry is a global organizational consulting firm that helps clients identify and develop top talent. They have a real estate and REIT practice that offers executive search and talent management services.
Glocap
Glocap is a specialized executive search firm that focuses on the alternative investment industry, including real estate and REITs. They have a team of experienced recruiters who can help candidates find high-paying jobs in the industry.
SelectLeaders
SelectLeaders is a job board and career resource for the real estate industry, including REITs. They offer a premium job search service that provides access to the highest-paying jobs in the industry. They also offer career coaching and other resources to help candidates succeed.
What are the Top-Level Skills to Get a High Paying Job in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)?
In REITs, there are some top-level skills that are must-haves to get a high-paying job.
5 top-level skills required to get a high paying job in REITs:
Financial Analysis
REITs are financial vehicles that rely on sound financial analysis to succeed. A high-level of financial analysis is a must-have skill in the industry.
Candidates must be able to interpret financial statements, analyze market trends and assess the potential impact of investments. Candidates can obtain this by obtaining Finance or Accounting degree.
Asset Management
Managing real estate assets is a key part of a REIT’s business model. Asset management skills are critical to ensure that the properties in the REIT’s portfolio are performing well and meeting investor expectations.
Candidates can gain asset management skills through hands-on experience in real estate management or a degree in Real Estate or a related field.
Marketing
Marketing skills are essential for REIT professionals who need to promote their company’s properties to tenants, investors, and other stakeholders. Candidates must be able to develop marketing strategies and execute tactics to effectively reach target audiences.
Candidates can develop marketing skills by obtaining a degree in marketing or a related field, or hands-on experience in marketing for real estate companies.
Communication
Effective communication skills are critical for REIT professionals who need to build relationships with tenants, investors, and other stakeholders. Candidates must be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Candidates can develop communication skills through public speaking classes and writing workshops.
Business Acumen
REIT professionals must have a strong understanding of business principles and practices. Candidates must be able to identify market trends, assess risk, and make informed business decisions. Candidates can develop business acumen through hands-on experience in managing and operating real estate assets.
Top 10 Companies with the Highest-Paying Jobs in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
These companies offer high salaries to attract and retain top talent in the REIT industry.
Here are 10 companies with the highest-paying jobs in REITs based on research:
Realty Income
Digital Realty Trust
Essex Property Trust
Public Storage
Brookfield Asset Management
Hines
Blackstone Group
Greystar
Prologis
Welltower
The table below provides more details on these companies:
S/N
Company Name
Size (No. of employees)
Highest Paying Job Title
Average Annual Salary
1
Realty Income
200
Chief Investment Officer
$500,000
2
Digital Realty Trust
1,500
Chief Investment Officer
$400,000
3
Essex Property Trust
1,500
Chief Operating Officer
$350,000
4
Public Storage
5,000
Chief Financial Officer
$350,000
5
Brookfield Asset Management
100,000
Senior Managing Partner
$300,000
6
Hines
1,000
Managing Director
$250,000
7
Blackstone Group
2,500
Director of Investments
$240,000
8
Greystar
10,000
Managing Director of Investments
$230,000
9
Prologis
4,000
Vice President of Capital Deployment
$220,000
10
Welltower
500
Senior Vice President of Investments
$225,000
What are the Factors Affecting an Employee’s Salary in the REITs Sector?
There are several factors that can affect a REITs employee’s salary. Some of these factors include the types of properties REITs invest in, location and property performance.
5 critical factors affecting an employee’s salary in the REIT sector:
Type of Property
The type of property that the REIT invests in can significantly affect the salaries of its employees. Properties such as office buildings, shopping centers, and medical facilities tend to offer higher salaries than residential properties due to the complexity of managing them.
Location
Location is an essential factor that affects the salaries of REIT employees. Properties located in major cities or prime locations tend to pay higher salaries than those in rural or less developed areas.
Property performance
The performance of the REIT’s properties can significantly impact the salaries of its employees. When properties generate higher revenue, it can translate to higher salaries for employees.
Specialization
Specialized roles within the REIT industry, such as asset management or development, may offer higher salaries due to their expertise being in high demand.
Negotiation skills
The ability to negotiate salary and benefits can also play a role in determining an employee’s salary in the REIT industry. Those who are skilled negotiators may be able to secure higher salaries and better benefits.
Conclusion: 20 Best-Paying Jobs in REITs
The best-paying jobs in REIT are highly sought-after positions that require specialized skills, experience, and education. However, by possessing the right qualifications, individuals can position themselves for high-paying jobs in the REIT industry and a rewarding career.
FAQs on the 20 Best-Paying Jobs in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
Which job is best in REITs?
Some of the best jobs in REITs include Asset Manager, Property Manager, Real Estate Investment Analyst, Development Manager, and Financial Analyst. There are however numerous jobs available in REITs.
Which country is best for REITs jobs?
The United States has the largest and most mature REIT market globally, with a wide range of job opportunities. Other countries with notable REIT markets include Canada, Japan, Australia, and Singapore.
