You’re interested in commercial real estate finance. What are the best ways to gain experience?

When transitioning from single-family real estate to commercial real estate (CRE), it's crucial to tap into the wealth of freely available resources online. Avoid paying for advice from so-called gurus or influencers; explore platforms like YouTube and reputable websites for valuable insights. Platforms like BiggerPockets and podcasts such as "The Higher Standard" can provide invaluable knowledge and practical tips for navigating the world of CRE finance without breaking the bank. Determine your investment strategy—fix and flip or buy and hold—and grasp the associated tax and legal considerations. Remember, patience and thorough knowledge are essential for making informed investment decisions in CRE.

To gain experience in commercial real estate finance, pursue internships with reputable firms, network with professionals in the industry, enroll in relevant courses or certifications, and stay updated on market trends. Utilize online platforms and attend industry events to broaden your knowledge and build relationships with key players in the field.

When I first tried to transition from SFR to CRE, I found an MBA book and read it. Conceptually it was okay. But these days, there is so much information available for free on YouTube. Just dive in there to start. Please don’t pay “gurus” or social media influencers masquerading as experts. Just dive in, take the time to research and when you feel like you like what you see, take the next steps. I think BiggerPockets is a great starting resource. And I can shameless plug my own podcast here. The Higher Standard.

Having a finance background would be a great start. After that, being willing to start with an entry-level position in real estate financing firms would build a great foundation. Things such as a credit analyst, underwriting, loan processing and other roles can give you a well-rounded knowledge base.

Several online platforms offer introductory courses on commercial real estate finance, often at an affordable price. These courses typically cover key topics like property valuation, capital structures, financing options, and risk analysis. Look for courses from reputable institutions or instructors with experience in the field. Numerous books delve into the world of commercial real estate finance, catering to different levels of expertise and learning styles. Attend webinars and workshops, including meetups online or in person. Networking with active professionals such as lenders, brokers, and investors allows you to learn from them, ask questions, and gain valuable insights.

While earning the CCIM designation is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise, it is also an advanced certification which requires qualifying experience. Rather than seek out advanced certifications as a means of learning fundamentals, seek out mentorship and immersive training opportunities within the segment of the industry that you believe you will ultimately choose to build a career in (capital markets, investment brokerage, development, property management, etc.).

I’m an attorney. In that field it’s finding mentors and sponsors who will help you to understand various financing sources (I got to learn tax credit financing, tax increment financing and various grant programs through some fabulous more experienced attorneys, developers and consultants). I’m also involved in my local CCIM chapter and the quality of the courses, “lunch and learns”, continuing education, etc is incredible. Find CREW, CCIM, CBOR, CDFA, etc seminars in a topic you’re interested in. They are usually relatively inexpensive and the content AND networking are phenomenal (and then follow up with the contacts you make and ask the “stupid” questions!!)

Obtener certificaciones como CCIM o CFA demuestra compromiso y habilidades en financiamiento de bienes raíces comerciales. Estas designaciones amplían conocimientos y redes profesionales, fortaleciendo tu perfil y aumentando oportunidades laborales.

I come from the perspective of corporate finance dealing with commercial real estate entities. Our Tax and Legal Departments worked hand-in-hand for entity creation, registration, taxation, and dissolution. If you already work in a company with these departments, seek a mentor who can help you understand the purpose of each entity and what their taxing jurisdictions require.

Certification is not necessary, I have been a commercial mortgage broker and lender since 2001 without any certifications and have been successful thanks to lenders who are willing to teach brokers how to originate these loans. I have never had an issue arise due to a lack of a certification or degree in finance though I have taught others in commercial finance via associations and other brokers. I made the transition from residential mortgage broker to commercial mortgage broker in 2001.

Applying for internships in commercial real estate finance can be a highly effective way to learn the fundamentals for several reasons: - Hands-on experience - Mentorship - Meaningful industry networking opportunities - Exposure to a variety of roles/functions Not least of which, you'll have an opportunity to build relationships with the people you work with, other interns, vendors, and other professionals. Commercial real estate and CRE finance are people businesses at the end of the day, and your network is of vital importance as your career takes shape.

Securing internships is a pivotal route to gaining hands-on experience in commercial real estate finance. Target reputable firms or financial institutions offering internship programs. Through internships, you'll immerse yourself in various aspects of finance, from analyzing property valuations to underwriting loans. Seek internships that provide mentorship, networking opportunities, and exposure to real-world transactions, maximizing your learning experience and industry connections.

Internships are great for college students to learn by doing and I have had numerous interns in my 15 years as a broker/owner of a commercial finance company. I think this is much more important than certifications and even a college degree, since I have had several interns that were in High School that went on to become successful commercial mortgage brokers.

Buscar pasantías en empresas destacadas del sector inmobiliario comercial ofrece experiencia práctica y oportunidades de aprendizaje. Puedes aplicar en bancos, firmas de capital privado, REITs, firmas de corretaje o empresas de desarrollo a través de plataformas como LinkedIn o Glassdoor. Estas pasantías te permitirán aprender de profesionales experimentados y desarrollar habilidades relevantes para el campo, aumentando tus posibilidades de empleo a largo plazo.

Internships or mentorship opportunities are known to be a difference maker. From recent studies, a person who receives an internship in their desired field is 24-27% more likely to land a position that fits their skillset and pushes them. It's important for CRE because it is a major relationship game. Many of the players in this space have been around for decades and place a large amount of money into teams that they trust. The best way to bridge this gap is by building a relationship early with a mentor or boss through an internship. Not only will you begin to be in "the room where it happens" but you will see all the different pillars that support the decision-making and execution of these deals.

Participar en concursos de financiamiento inmobiliario comercial es una experiencia estimulante y educativa. Estos eventos ofrecen la oportunidad de resolver casos de estudio reales o hipotéticos, mejorando habilidades analíticas y de presentación. Además, te permite destacar tu talento y conectar con profesionales del sector, todo mientras compites por premios y reconocimientos.

Practical Steps for Real Estate Modeling/Projects: 1. Learn the Basics: Understand real estate concepts like revenue (rent, other income), expenses (admin, maintenance), and financial metrics (IRR, NPV). 2. Use Tools: Familiarize yourself with modeling tools like Excel, Google Sheets, or specialized real estate software (e.g., Argus, redIQ). 3. Practice: Find property data online and create your own financial models. Analyze deals, calculate returns, and simulate scenarios. 4. Stay Curious: Keep exploring and learning—it's a valuable skill for your career in real estate! 🏢💡

A experiência pode vir em fazer algo novo com aquilo que já foi feito. A liberdade de começar seu próprio projeto te dar uma mar de oportunidades.

Embarking on your own projects also cultivates entrepreneurial skills, fostering innovation and creativity in problem-solving. It's an opportunity to take ownership of your learning journey and differentiate yourself in the competitive real estate industry.

A way to gain experience in commercial real state finance is to start your own projects. you can find projects by identifying a problem , a gap. you can also use online tools, such as excel. Starting your own projects will help you apply your skills, test your ideas.

It is vital to work under an experienced broker and participate in deals. Absolute quickest and best way to learn the business. If you choose not to and do it own your own there is a good chance you will ruin your reputation before you begin your career. What you don’t know can hurt and you don’t know what you don’t know.

In commercial real estate, including CRE finance, the old adage "niches make riches" is absolutely true. In addition to learning the foundational basics, one of the greatest decisions you can make is to focus on a specialization within CRE finance. The debt markets for different property types, asset classes, and uses varies widely, and the expertise required to attract clientele, properly advise them, and navigate the real estate capital markets, will require specialized knowledge if you hope to be successful, whether in originations, credit operations, loan sales, or other functions. The most effective approach often involves combining multiple learning methods and focused immersion.

Attend industry events, join professional organizations and actively network with professionals in the commercial real estate finance industry. Building relationships can lead to job opportunities and valuable insights. If you have the opportunity to work in a related field, such as residential real estate, banking, or finance, take advantage of any on-the-job training or cross-training opportunities that can provide exposure to commercial real estate finance.Join real estate investment clubs or organizations, where you can learn about various aspects of real estate investing, including financing strategies and deal analysis.

Analyze real-world transactions, conduct financial modeling exercises, and assess investment opportunities to gain practical insights and experience. Membership provides access to resources, networking opportunities, and industry events. Seek mentorship from seasoned professionals who can offer guidance, advice, and insights into the industry. These programs provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills relevant to commercial real estate finance roles. Internships provide hands-on learning opportunities and allow you to network with professionals in the industry.

To get experience you need to get experience… sounds simple, but it’s true. Forget money and go and get a job at a firm that is a leader in the field and learn from the best. Get involved in as many transactions as you can and learn as you go. Doing a better than watching. My advice when it comes to brokering is forget what you earn until you hit 100 applications. You’re then experienced enough to warrant getting paid decent money.