Finance & Accounting Background: How Do I Break Into Full-Time Real Estate Roles?

Question

Hi everyone,

I'll be graduating college in May of 2027 with a degree in finance and accounting. I have experience in data analytics, and I'm interested in moving into a career in real estate. I'm trying to figure out where my skills fit best and how to get my foot in the door. I have attached my resume for further background. A few questions for those working in the industry:

• What real estate roles are a good fit for someone with a finance, accounting, and analytics background?
• Is it realistic to break in without direct real estate experience? If not, what's the best way to build that experience?
• Are there any certifications, courses, or skills worth pursuing that actually make a difference when applying?
• Where do you recommend looking for opportunities beyond the typical job boards?

What real estate roles are a good fit for someone with a finance, accounting, and analytics background?

Is it realistic to break in without direct real estate experience? If not, what's the best way to build that experience?

Are there any certifications, courses, or skills worth pursuing that actually make a difference when applying?

Where do you recommend looking for opportunities beyond the typical job boards?

I'm also open to helping investors or operators with analysis or financial work to gain experience.

Thanks in advance for any advice or insight you can share!

Kevin Crowell · Answer

Hi Landon!

With your education and background in finance, accounting, and data analytics, you already have a strong foundation for getting into real estate.

If it were myself, I would look into acquisitions, real estate financial analyst, asset management, or underwriting roles. These positions allow you to apply your existing skills while learning any real estate business.

You don't necessarily need direct real estate experience to get started. I'd focus on learning real estate underwriting / due diligence, building a few sample deal analyses, and networking directly with investors and operators. Being able to analyze a deal and explain why the numbers work (or don't) can go a long way.

Best of luck with your upcoming graduation!

Rick Albert · Answer

100% look into asset management. It pays well and you learn everything from acquisition to rehab to management. Check out JP Morgan as I've seen they have different ways to break in. In hindsight, although I'm very happy with my background, I would have considered this when I first graduated college.

Landon Harazin · Answer

Hi Rick, thanks so much for the timely response this is helpful! Getting exposure to everything from acquisition to rehab to management sounds like exactly what I'm looking for. You mentioned JP Morgan has a few different ways to break in. Which would you recommend for someone in my position?

Finance & Accounting Background: How Do I Break Into Full-Time Real Estate Roles?

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