What are the steps to specialize in commercial real estate?

1 Get a license

The first step to specialize in commercial real estate is to obtain a real estate license in your state. This will allow you to legally represent buyers and sellers of commercial properties, such as office buildings, retail centers, industrial warehouses, and multifamily complexes. Depending on your state, you may need to complete a certain number of hours of pre-licensing education, pass an exam, and submit an application and a fee. You can find the specific requirements for your state on the website of your state's real estate commission or department.

3 Find a mentor

The third step to specialize in commercial real estate is to find a mentor who can guide you, teach you, and support you in your career. Commercial real estate is a complex and competitive field that requires a lot of practical knowledge, experience, and connections. A mentor can be an experienced broker, an industry leader, or a successful professional who has achieved what you aspire to. A mentor can help you learn the ins and outs of the business, provide you with valuable advice, introduce you to potential clients and partners, and motivate you to achieve your goals.

4 Join a team

The fourth step to specialize in commercial real estate is to join a team that can offer you resources, opportunities, and collaboration. Commercial real estate is a team sport that involves working with other professionals, such as appraisers, attorneys, lenders, contractors, and property managers. Joining a team can help you access more deals, leverage more skills, share more costs, and generate more income. You can join a team within a brokerage firm, a development company, or an investment group. You can also form your own team with other brokers or partners who share your vision and values.

5 Get certified

The fifth step to specialize in commercial real estate is to get certified by a reputable organization that can validate your skills, knowledge, and professionalism. Commercial real estate is a highly regulated and competitive field that requires a high level of competence, ethics, and credibility. Getting certified can help you stand out from the crowd, enhance your reputation, and increase your earning potential. Some of the most recognized certifications in commercial real estate are CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member), SIOR (Society of Industrial and Office Realtors), and CPM (Certified Property Manager).

6 Keep learning

The sixth and final step to specialize in commercial real estate is to keep learning and improving your skills, knowledge, and network. Commercial real estate is a dynamic and evolving field that requires constant adaptation, innovation, and education. You need to keep up with the latest trends, technologies, regulations, and best practices in the industry. You also need to keep expanding your network, building your relationships, and finding new opportunities. You can keep learning by attending seminars, webinars, workshops, conferences, and courses. You can also keep networking by joining associations, clubs, groups, and platforms.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?