How to Get Your First Real Estate Job in 2026
Breaking into an industry that hires on relationships.
Real estate is notoriously relationship-driven, which makes the first job the hardest. The good news: the paths in have widened, even if none of them is the front door.
Build Proof, Not Just a Résumé
Underwrite real deals on your own and share the work. Publish your analysis. Show up where operators gather. A candidate who has visibly done the work beats a perfect résumé with nothing behind it.
Target smaller shops first. They hire on capability over pedigree and give you exposure a megafund analyst will not see for years.
Managing director at Meridian Housing Group. 18 years delivering affordable and workforce housing.
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