Real estate investment trusts (REITs) have become increasingly popular investment vehicles in the United States. REITs allow individuals to invest in large-scale real estate projects and earn dividends from rents and property appreciation. As REITs continue to grow, they offer lucrative career opportunities in high-paying positions. This article will explore the best and highest paying jobs in real estate investment trusts in USA.
Chief Executive Officer of REITs Earns Lucrative Salaries
The chief executive officer (CEO) of a publicly traded REIT can earn a very high salary along with stock options and bonuses. According to industry surveys, the average CEO of a REIT earns around $6.5 million per year. Larger REITs often pay CEOs over $10 million annually. The CEO oversees all operations and investment decisions for the REIT and is ultimately responsible for delivering strong returns to shareholders.
Chief Financial Officers Play a Vital Role
As real estate investment trusts manage billions of dollars in property assets, the chief financial officer (CFO) plays a critical role in their success. CFOs of major REITs earn $2-4 million in annual compensation. The CFO oversees financial reporting, capital management, investor relations, accounting, tax and internal controls for the REIT. CFOs work closely with the CEO on strategic decisions and ensuring financial stability.
Portfolio Managers Source and Underwrite Deals
REITs employ portfolio managers to analyze and underwrite potential property acquisitions and dispositions. Portfolio managers conduct due diligence on deals, evaluate markets and financing options. They help construct a balanced real estate portfolio across different property types and geographies. Portfolio managers at top REITs can earn $250,000 to over $500,000 in compensation.
REITs Rely on Skilled Property Managers
While REITs focus on high-level portfolio strategy, they rely on property managers to handle day-to-day operations at their real estate assets. Property managers market vacant space, collect rents, oversee maintenance and handle tenant relations. Strong property management is critical to maximizing returns. Property managers at REITs can earn $80,000 to $150,000 annually depending on experience.
Development Opportunities for Real Estate Professionals
Professionals with backgrounds in real estate, finance, law and accounting can find appealing career paths at REITs. Recent graduates can begin in analyst or associate roles and work up to portfolio management and executive positions. REITs value strong financial modeling and analysis skills. They also provide opportunities to specialize in property types ranging from office buildings to hospitals to data centers.
In summary, real estate investment trusts in the United States offer lucrative career opportunities across many high-paying positions. The most financially rewarding roles are CEO and CFO, but portfolio managers, property managers and other real estate professionals can also earn strong compensation at REITs.