Has anyone here transitioned from CM to Commercial RE/Development? What role/type of company were you able to transition to?

I have been in Construction Management for 10 years, and am looking for a change. I have talked to several RE firms, and know they value the construction background, but am having trouble finding open opportunities through LinkedIn/Indeed/Recruiters (I do understand the industry is slow right now, and the construction management departments of these firms are small to begin with). All opportunities tend to be traditional construction opportunities through GCs, or traditional Real Estate jobs that I realize I am unqualified for. I feel that a transition to a construction/asset management team would be an opportunity to contribute immediately using past skills, while learning more about the development/Real Estate side.

Any opportunities or words of advice would be greatly appreciated. Feel free to DM and I can set up a call.

Shoot me an email. I went from Superintendent for a GC to CRE brokerage, happy to talk through it with you.

cosciag8@gmail.com

Sent you a private message

Where?

I'm in this same boat as a CM for a large real estate firm. I really like what I do, but the $$$ and lifestyle of these brokers is tempting to see if the grass is greener.

Greater Houston

jc1402 said:

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I'm in this same boat as a CM for a large real estate firm. I really like what I do, but the $$$ and lifestyle of these brokers is tempting to see if the grass is greener.

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Did you come from a GC originally? If so, did you have to take a large pay cut? Work/life balance improve? Are you getting the opportunity to learn more about the brokerage/development side, or strictly managing the ongoing projects?

Actually started as a PM for a real estate firm, went to work for a GC, then came back to the RE side. Took a solid pay raise and have better work life balance. But even in a more senior role, the top of the career (pay) trajectory isn't quite as high as I'd like it to be.

I transitioned from a project manager for a commercial GC to a project manager for a commercial developer. We have several folks that have made this transition. Over time I leaned the financial side of the business which helped me move from project management to true development.

It's useful for candidates to be polished, well spoken, and to have deep networks in the architectural and construction community. A graduate degree in real estate or an MBA could help with the transition.

Thanks Neches, thats exactly what I'm shooting for. I appreciate the insight!

jc1402 said:

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I'm in this same boat as a CM for a large real estate firm. I really like what I do, but the $$$ and lifestyle of these brokers is tempting to see if the grass is greener.

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Keep in mind that those broker roles are 100% commission and you need to have savings to float you for probably a year at least.

TarponChaser said:

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jc1402 said:

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I'm in this same boat as a CM for a large real estate firm. I really like what I do, but the $$$ and lifestyle of these brokers is tempting to see if the grass is greener.

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Keep in mind that those broker roles are 100% commission and you need to have savings to float you for probably a year at least.

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This. I work with a bunch of brokers. The rainmakers make the big bucks and play golf every Friday but the younger ones and less productive ones have to grind a lot more. It's a commissioned and cyclical business.

I manage large projects for a large CRE firm and as a former GC, I can say I strongly prefer what I do now.

Neches21 said:

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I transitioned from a project manager for a commercial GC to a project manager for a commercial developer. We have several folks that have made this transition. Over time I leaned the financial side of the business which helped me move from project management to true development.

It's useful for candidates to be polished, well spoken, and to have deep networks in the architectural and construction community. A graduate degree in real estate or an MBA could help with the transition.

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Neches21,
I am currently a PM with experience with Commercial and Multi-Family GC's and looking to enter the development world. Would you happen to have any time to discuss what your job search and transition was like?

Current Project Manager for a GC and been wondering about being a CM on the developer side. Would love to hear what that transition has been like for folks. Both the good and the bad.