Attend school for real estate management?

[Ron Jensen]

Hi I am new here.

Is it recommended to pay to take courses at a real estate management institute?  There is a course that I am thinking to enroll in, for earning a designation for residential management. When comparing taking the paid course and exam, to just reading up here, is the school and certification really worth it?

My goal is to gain employment in real estate management in New York or New Jersey.  My interest might be in commercial or residential. I am still unclear about my direction but I know it is in real estate. The school that offers the course does not guarantee any job or job placement after completing the exam.

One alternative would be to acquire textbook materials for property management courses and then read them on my own.  The accredit real estate manager course is pricey.  I can pay for it, but do not want to overpay if there is another way to get on the career track.

I appreciate any advice. Thanks!