Career advice- path into management/investment

[David Hanson]

Hello everyone,

I’m 22, based in the Chicago area, and just finished a degree in finance and real estate in May. My long-term goal is to own small multifamily or mixed-use properties in Chicago. I have a strong interest in getting a start in the industry with hands-on experience in BRRR deals, multi-family management, brokerage, or any other field where I can learn how investors operate. 

I could really use advice on finding an early-career path or mentorship. I’ve applied to leasing and assistant property manager roles, but many require prior experience. I'm open to commission-only brokerage roles, but I'm not sure if this is a good place to start. My past work experience started at a restaurant, bar jobs at college, an inventory management internship, and most recently, I helped launch and manage a family-owned franchise business after graduation.  

I'd love to hear stories of how you guys got hands-on exposure as recent grads or young professionals. How did you find a mentor in the industry? If you could go back, how would you get started? What are good resources specifically in Chicago? 

Thanks in advance!

-David

[Aaron Zimmerman]

David - welcome! Love the game plan and wanting to be involved in real estate in multiple ways. 

I'd say if you're wanting to get into management, I'd try to increase your odds of success and go to networking events where property management companies hang out. In my experience, it seems Like property management companies are hiring pretty frequently. You may have to work your way up but there's definitely a path to assistant property manager if you can't get it right away. 

On the investing side, I'd also go to networking events such as Chicago multifamily club, Windy City REI, Chicago breakfast club, etc. I'd recommend listening to the straight up Chicago investor podcast as well. There's all local guests, with some of them being property management companies that you could reach out to and try to provide value.