New Student Bio -- Questions about Commercial/Development

[Ryan Rodriguez]

Hello,

My name is Ryan Rodriguez, I am a accounting and finance student at the University of Iowa. My most recent internship was with Aegon Asset Management working with commercial real estate portfolios, where I worked full-time for eight months. I believe my post makes it apparent that I am curious about real estate but more specifically development and commercial properties interest me. I have just recently joined bigger pockets and learned about the site through the podcast. After getting a general sense of bigger pockets and the value it can provide I wanted to pose a few questions to the general population and get some feedback. My current goal is to one day own and operate my own commercial investment or development business. I understand patience and payment of dues is necessary to make that goal a reality one day. I have some questions that follow my bio, please feel free to answer anything you have insight on or have to time for. I understand I have a lot to ask and do not expect answers to all questions in one post!

• My first questions regards my education. I am currently working on getting a double major in accounting in finance. I am strongly considering getting my CPA certification but wonder if that is necessary or relevant in the real estate industry? From what I understand, a CPA greatly increases career opportunities to those who have the certification. Is there value in real estate for a CPA certification?

Additionally I would like to get a MSRE (Masters in Real Estate) degree after a couple years in the workforce post graduating (Spring 2017). My question in regard to this pursuit is, what value does a MSRE degree add to one's career path and knowledge base? I heard about CCIM certification recently in the podcast and wanted to know how that adds up to a MSRE and if that is something I can do while working? Additionally what are some of the top MSRE programs in the country?

• My next line of questions are more industry focused. After observing bigger pocket briefly, it seems to me that the site is focused on residential investing. Is there a reason this sites content shies away from the commercial market? Are there large barriers to entry? Greater competition? Less profit(I'm don't believe this point is the case)? My next question is similar but in regards to the development side of the business, is there a reason that BP's focus is focused on investment rather than development? Any insight on the pros, cons, and hurdles for all of these different segments of the business would be greatly appreciated.
• Finally, I have a few questions about careers in real estate. To start, when exiting college, what kind of employment opportunities are good to look for? I could have an opportunity in the public accounting field if my education continues to go well. But I am hesitant that this will not get me the industry experience I would like to have. What are some of the leaders in commercial development regionally and nationally that hire college graduates. Specifically what environment is best for developing experience and knowledge for new hires? A large firm? Small firm? Finally in regards to commercial real estate, are there different barriers to entry in residential versus commercial careers?

It is a pleasure to be on bigger pockets, and I look forward to learning from you all. 

Best Regards,

Ryan Rodriguez