A Career in Real Estate: Exploring 14 Jobs Beyond the Usual Agent
Are you fascinated by real estate but unsure which career path to take? From appraisers to writers, there are numerous roles in the industry beyond the typical real estate agent. Here are 14 jobs in real estate that you may not know existed, along with their average national salaries and required licenses or education.
1. Real Estate Agent
• License or education required: Yes
• Average national salary: ~$86,000
• Job description: Assist clients with buying, selling, and renting properties, including showing and listing properties, generating leads, and marketing services. • Skills to thrive: Honesty, communication, and organizational skills are essential for successful agents.
2. Real Estate Broker
• License or education required: Yes
• Average national salary: ~$99,000
• Job description: Own or supervise a real estate brokerage, overseeing finances, training, and deals. • Skills to thrive: Leadership, business acumen, and communication skills are necessary for brokers.
3. Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO) or Mortgage Broker
• License or education required: Yes
• Average national salary: ~$60,000 to ~87,000
• Job description: Work with clients to secure financing for properties, reviewing mortgage applications and providing guidance. • Skills to thrive: Excellent communication and education skills are required, as well as knowledge of mortgage products.
4. Appraiser
• License or education required: Yes
• Average national salary: ~$73,000
• Job description: Evaluate properties to determine their fair market value, often for sales, refinances, or purchases. • Skills to thrive: Strong knowledge of market conditions and expertise in specific areas are necessary.
5. Home Inspector
• License or education required: Yes
• Average national salary: ~$60,000
• Job description: Conduct inspections to identify potential issues with properties, writing reports for clients. • Skills to thrive: Attention to detail, knowledge of home systems, and organizational skills are essential.
6. Writer
• License or education required: No
• Average national salary: ~$76,000
• Job description: Write articles, blogs, or other content for real estate professionals, investors, or companies. • Skills to thrive: Strong writing and communication skills are necessary, as well as knowledge of real estate concepts.
7. Instructor
• License or education required: Yes
• Average national salary: ~$63,000
• Job description: Teach real estate pre-licensing, post-licensing, or continuing education courses, either online or in-person. • Skills to thrive: Patience, teaching skills, and knowledge of real estate laws and ethics are necessary.
8. Real Estate Manager
• License or education required: No
• Average national salary: ~$84,000
• Job description: Oversee daily operations of a real estate brokerage, managing finances, marketing, and staff. • Skills to thrive: Leadership, organizational, and communication skills are essential.
9. Property Manager
• License or education required: Depends on the state
• Average national salary: ~$58,000
• Job description: Maintain properties, handle tenant communication, and manage maintenance and repairs. • Skills to thrive: Knowledge of property management, communication, and organizational skills are necessary.
10. Transaction Coordinator
• License or education required: No
• Average national salary: ~$52,000
• Job description: Assist agents and teams with paperwork, communication, and lead generation. • Skills to thrive: Organizational skills, attention to detail, and communication skills are essential.
11. Investor
• License or education required: No
• Average national salary: ~$87,000
• Job description: Invest in real estate, either directly or through companies, analyzing market trends and investment strategies. • Skills to thrive: Knowledge of investment calculations, market analysis, and financial planning are necessary.
12. Leasing Coordinator
• License or education required: Depends on the state
• Average national salary: ~$38,000
• Job description: Leverage properties, handle tenant communication, and manage leases. • Skills to thrive: Knowledge of the property, marketing, and communication skills are necessary.
13. Attorney
• License or education required: Yes
• Average national salary: ~$141,000
• Job description: Represent clients in real estate transactions, reviewing contracts and negotiating on behalf of clients. • Skills to thrive: Strong communication, negotiation, and analytical skills are necessary.
14. Home Stager or Interior Designer
• License or education required: No
• Average national salary: ~$43,000 to ~73,000
• Job description: Create visually appealing spaces for homes, either for staging or design purposes. • Skills to thrive: Knowledge of design trends, color schemes, and furniture is necessary.
The Full Picture
With this list, you can explore the many roles in real estate beyond the typical agent. Consider your skills, interests, and education to find the perfect fit for your career. Whether you’re fascinated by real estate or just starting to learn more, there’s a role on this list waiting for you.