For anyone looking to get their foot in the door of the real estate industry, there are a few key things you should know. The first is that it’s not as easy as it looks on TV. The second is that it’s not impossible, either. In fact, with the right mix of grit, determination, and networking, just about anyone can snag a job in real estate investment. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do just that.
Step One: Do Your Research
The first step to getting a job in real estate investment is doing your research. This means two things: knowing what real estate investing actually entails, and knowing what kind of job you want within the industry.
To learn about real estate investing, start by reading some books (yes, actual physical books) or articles from credible sources. A quick Google search will turn up plenty of results, but be sure to vet anything you read for accuracy. A good place to start is with “The Millionaire Real Estate Investor” by Gary Keller. Once you have a firm understanding of the basics of real estate investing, you can move on to more specific resources that focus on your desired area of expertise. For example, if you’re interested in fix-and-flip properties, check out “The Book on Flipping Houses” by J Scott.
Next, it’s time to figure out what kind of job you want within the industry. There are many different roles in real estate investing, from being a full-time investor to working for a real estate investment firm in a support role. Consider what kind of work environment you thrive in, what hours you’re willing to work, and what your long-term goals are before making any decisions.
Step Two: Network Like Crazy
Now that you know what you want, it’s time to start networking like crazy. Get involved with local meetups and online forums related to real estate investing. Attend industry events and trade shows. Join relevant LinkedIn groups and follow influencers in your desired field on social media. Not only will this help you make valuable connections, but it will also give you a better idea of what kinds of jobs are out there and how to position yourself as a candidate.
When networking, always remember to be professional and courteous—even if you’re talking to someone who isn’t currently hiring or doesn’t have any leads for you. You never know when your paths might cross again down the road, so it’s always best to make a good impression. And speaking of impressions…
Step Three: Create an Online Presence
In today’s digital world, having an online presence is more important than ever before—especially if you’re looking for a job in an industry like real estate investing where much of the work is done remotely. Start by setting up profiles on all the major social media platforms (LinkedIn should be your top priority) and creating a website or blog where you can showcase your knowledge and experience. Be sure to include links to your online profiles and website on your resume as well as any other marketing materials you create.
While landing a job in real estate investment may not be as easy as it looks on TV, it’s certainly not impossible—you just need to know where to start. By doing your research, networking like crazy, and creating an online presence, you’ll be well on your way to snagging the job of your dreams in no time!
