Wanting to get a Real Estate Adjacent Job - Advice for a Newbie

[Meagan Peters]

Hello everyone!

I am currently 24 years old and just graduated University last year. I've been working as a Jr. Graphic Designer but am strongly considering getting a job that is more related to real estate, as my long-term goal is real estate investing and I see Graphic Design much more as a hobby.

 I currently have enough savings to pay for my living expenses for 18 months (so not overly concerned about my salary in a real estate job, I more so just want to learn and provide value to someone who knows what they're doing). I feel like it's a good time to explore other job options that will help educate me/ expose me more to the real estate world but I'm not sure where to start or what types of jobs would be most beneficial.

I guess my question is: If you were in my position (young, eager, loads of time, willing to work, and just want to get started), what real estate-related job would you recommend/suggest I look for to put myself in a position to learn and just get my foot in the door? 

(I am currently living in Ottawa, Ontario and don't have a car but the bus system is decent)

Thanks for any advice!!!

[Scott E.]

Here is a random list of options in no particular order. Some will require additional schooling, others wont...

1. Real estate agent

2. Mortgage loan officer

3. Escrow officer (for a title company)

4. Designer

5. Architect

6. Engineer (structural, mechanical, electrical, etc)

7. Work for a general contractor/builder

8. Work for a sub contractor (concrete, framing, roofing, HVAC, etc)

9. Marketing agent (for agents, contractors, etc)

10. Work for a staging company

11. Work for a property management company

Any of these paths will get you some exposure to real estate. Who knows, long term you might decide you want to start your own business like open your own property management company, or your on concrete company. But working for somebody else for a while will get your feet wet and help you figure out what feels fulfilling.

(Also - I'm going to add to the post above mine and say that you should not go work for somebody for free. Unnecessary.)