Career Definition for a Real Estate Manager
Real estate managers oversee the operational aspects of commercial and residential properties and are responsible for maintaining the premises and increasing their value. Some managers may provide services for multiple buildings or locations. Job duties associated with large properties can include training and supervising staff members and groundskeepers. According to the U.S. General Services Administration, real estate managers who work on smaller properties may also be responsible for daily services and minor repairs. Depending on the employer, additional activities can include making mortgage, tax and insurance payments, as well as other bookkeeping activities.
| Education | Bachelor's degree in real estate, finance, or business administration |
| Job Skills | Analytical skills, communication, record keeping, leadership |
| Median Salary (2021)* | $59,230 for property, real estate, and community association managers |
| Job Growth (2021-2031)* | 3% for property, real estate, and community association managers |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Education Required
Most employers prefer applicants to have a bachelor's degree in real estate, finance or business administration. Managers often receive on-the-job training, including how to operate and repair any machines or equipment located on the premises.
Skills Required
Real estate managers must have excellent interpersonal and analytical skills, including the ability to communicate with owners, staff and tenants in an effective and efficient manner. Computer literacy, record keeping and strong leadership abilities are also required. Manual dexterity and knowledge of maintenance tools and equipment may be helpful in more hands-on positions.
Career and Salary Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), opportunities for property, real estate and community association managers across the country are expected to show 3% change from 2021 to 2031, due to the expansion of residential and commercial properties. As of May 2021, these managers earned median annual salaries of $59,230.
Alternate Career Options
The following are other options for careers in management:
Administrative Service Managers
In general, administrative services managers oversee the support services for a company or an organization. Responsibilities typically include maintaining the facility, record keeping and routing mail. While it is possible to enter the field with a high school diploma, some employers may prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in a relevant field of study, such as business administration or facility management. Professional certifications are available from the International Facility Management Association. As reported by the BLS, job opportunities for administrative services managers nationwide are expected to increase by 7% between 2021 and 2031, a faster than average rate of growth when compared to all other occupations. The BLS also reports that, in May 2021, administrative service managers earned median yearly wages of $100,170.
Lodging Managers
Lodging managers are responsible for the efficient and profitable operations of hotels, motels and other related establishments, which typically includes making sure that overnight guests have an enjoyable stay. Minimum requirements include a high school diploma and lodging experience; a bachelor's degree in hotel management or hospitality may be required by full-service or larger establishments. According to the BLS, certain states in the country, as well as Washington D.C., provide relevant training at the high school level. As of May 2021, lodging managers earned median annual wages of $59,430, with a 18% increase in jobs anticipated between 2021 and 2031 nationwide.
