How to Start a Career in the Commercial Real Estate Industry

If you are considering a career in commercial real estate, you are looking at a sector with many opportunities across sales, leasing, property management, and advisory services. This industry rewards people who work hard, develop strong networks, and build market knowledge.

This guide will help you understand the industry, what employers look for, and the steps you can take to get started.

Understand What Commercial Real Estate Is

Commercial real estate involves property used for business purposes rather than residential living. It includes office buildings, shopping centres, warehouses, factories, and mixed-use developments. Businesses lease or buy these spaces to run their operations.

Key areas within commercial real estate include:

• Sales – selling properties to investors, developers, or owner-occupiers.

• Leasing – securing tenants for office, retail, or industrial spaces.

• Property management – overseeing the day-to-day running of buildings.

• Corporate real estate services – advising companies on their real estate strategy.

• Valuation – assessing the market value of a property.

Learn How the Industry Works

You need to understand how property transactions happen. This includes how properties are marketed, how leases are negotiated, and how sales agreements are structured. Learn about the parties involved, such as landlords, tenants, investors, and brokers.

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The commercial property market is influenced by factors like economic growth, interest rates, and local development projects. Understanding these factors will help you have informed conversations with clients and employers.

Choose a Career Path

Commercial real estate has several career paths. Decide where your skills and interests fit.

• Broker – works to secure deals between property owners and buyers or tenants.

• Property manager – ensures buildings are maintained, occupied, and compliant with regulations.

• Leasing agent – focuses on finding tenants for vacant spaces.

• Valuer – specialises in property valuations for sales, financing, or accounting.

• Research analyst – studies market data and trends to support decision-making.

Each role requires different strengths. Sales and leasing roles require strong communication and negotiation skills. Property management roles need organisation and problem-solving skills.

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Build Relevant Skills

Employers value candidates who can build relationships, understand market data, and manage deals from start to finish. Key skills include:

• Communication – being clear and persuasive.

• Negotiation – finding terms that work for all parties.

• Networking – building a strong contact base.

• Market research – understanding trends and pricing.

• Organisation – managing multiple deals or projects at once.

If you do not have these skills yet, you can develop them through courses, workshops, and practical experience.

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Get Qualified

Some roles require formal qualifications. In South Africa, brokers and property practitioners need to be registered with the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority (PPRA). This involves completing the required education and professional development.

Studying property management, real estate, finance, or business can also help you stand out to employers.

Gain Experience

Employers prefer candidates with some industry exposure. You can:

• Apply for internships at commercial property companies.

• Take entry-level roles in administration or marketing within the property sector.

• Volunteer to help with events or networking activities for property associations.

• Shadow a broker or property manager to see how deals work.

Build Your Network

Commercial real estate is a relationship-driven business. Attend industry events, join professional bodies, and connect with people on LinkedIn. A strong network can help you find job opportunities and learn from experienced professionals.

Stay Informed

Read property news, follow market reports, and track key developments in your area. Being able to talk about current trends shows employers you take the industry seriously.

Apply Strategically

When you apply for jobs, tailor your CV to highlight skills relevant to commercial real estate. If you have sales experience in another industry, show how it relates to property transactions. If you have strong admin skills, position them for property management roles.

Research the companies you apply to. Learn what types of properties they deal with and what markets they serve.

Be Ready to Learn

Even after securing your first role, you will need to keep learning. The industry changes with market cycles, new technology, and updated regulations. Being adaptable will help you progress in your career.