Path to Take When You Get to University for Real Estate

Why Real Estate is Important for the Youth & How CYREA

I know for many of us, we have the generic "I don’t know what I’m going to do for the next four years of my life," or "I don’t know what I’m interested in." But have you ever stopped to think that real estate might be an option for you?

Still not convinced? Let’s walk through the steps of pursuing real estate in university.

Real estate is more than just buildings—it’s about shaping communities, making strategic

investments, and understanding how cities function. The industry is niche, offering opportunities in commercial real estate, property management, urban development, and real estate finance.

This is where CYREA (Canadian Youth Real Estate Association) comes in. CYREA is

dedicated to providing students with the knowledge, resources, and connections to navigate the real estate industry successfully. If you’re interested in real estate but don’t know where to start, CYREA is a great first step in exploring this field.

Current Real Estate Market Trends

The real estate market is constantly evolving. Here are some key trends that students should keep an eye on:

● Rise in Mixed-Use Developments – Cities are integrating residential, retail, and office spaces in one location.

● Sustainability and Green Building – Developers are focusing on eco-friendly designs and energy-efficient buildings.

● Technology in Real Estate – The rise of PropTech (Property Technology) is transforming how people buy, sell, and manage properties.

● Rental Market Boom – Many young professionals are opting to rent longer due to high home prices.

Understanding these trends gives you an edge when applying for internships and jobs in the

industry.

Real Estate Opportunities

Step 1: Choosing the Right University Program

If you’re considering real estate as a career, your first step is selecting a university with relevant programs. While some schools offer direct Real Estate Management degrees, others have strong business, urban planning, or economics programs that align well with the field.

Some of the top university pathways include:

● Business Programs (Finance, Economics, or Management with a Real Estate

Focus)

● Urban Development & Planning Degrees

● Architecture or Engineering with a Specialization in Real Estate

If you’re going to Western University, like me, joining the Western Real Estate Club (WREC) can be a fantastic way to learn more and connect with industry professionals.

Step 2: Get Involved Early

I know you’ve probably heard this time and time again, but it’s true—networking is everything!

● Join Real Estate Clubs: Most universities have real estate clubs that offer mentorship, guest speakers, and networking events.

● Attend Industry Events: Conferences, meetups, and networking nights can help you connect with professionals.

● Follow Market News: Websites like CBRE, JLL, and RE/MAX provide market insights and job postings.

Step 3: Landing an Internship

Internships are crucial in real estate because experience often matters more than grades. Here’s how to secure one:

✅ Start Early: Many firms recruit for summer internships months in advance. Start applying in September-October for the following summer.

✅ Perfect Your Resume & LinkedIn: Highlight relevant coursework, leadership roles, and transferable skills like market research and sales.

✅ Cold Email & Coffee Chats: Reach out to real estate professionals on LinkedIn. Ask insightful questions and express genuine interest in their career journey.

✅ Consider Brokerage Firms: Companies like CBRE, Colliers, and JLL offer structured summer programs.

✅ Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) & Developers: Many offer internships focused on property management, development, or financial analysis.

How Much Can You Earn in Real Estate?

Real estate salaries vary based on role, experience, and location. Here’s a rough breakdown:

Position	Average Starting Salary
Real Estate Analyst	$60,000 - $80,000
Real Estate Broker	Commission-Based
Property Manager	$50,000 - $70,000
Urban Planner	$60,000 - $75,000
Real Estate Developer	$80,000+

If you’re in brokerage or sales, your earnings depend on commission, meaning the potential for high earnings is significant. Some brokers make six figures within a few years!

Final Thoughts

If you’re even a little curious about real estate, take action! Explore clubs, attend networking events, and start building relationships. The earlier you start, the more opportunities you’ll have to shape your future in this exciting and dynamic industry.

👉 Your next step? Connect with CYREA, reach out to a real estate club at your university, explore university programs that will set you up, start networking, and get your foot in the door!