The best-paying jobs in real estate include real estate attorneys, who earn up to $180,000 annually, and real estate developers, who can make over $150,000 per year. Luxury real estate agents and commercial real estate brokers often exceed $200,000 with commissions. Property managers and real estate investment analysts also earn competitive salaries. For the big bucks, a mortgage loan officer has the best potential.
Best Paying Jobs in Real Estate and How to Get Them
The real estate industry offers some of the highest-paying jobs in the market. Roles like mortgage loan officers, house flippers, and commercial real estate brokers can generate six-figure salaries or more. This guide outlines the top-paying real estate careers, including their salary potential, job responsibilities, and key skills required for success. Many of these jobs also don’t require a degree.
The TL;DR version is in the table below. Further on we look at a handful in more detail.
| Job Title | Highest Potential Salary |
|---|---|
| Mortgage Loan Officer | $405,834 |
| House Flipper / Investor | $392,000 |
| Real Estate Wholesaler | $360,000+ |
| Commercial Real Estate Broker | $296,500 |
| Home Inspector | $246,084 |
| Real Estate Agent | $194,045 |
| Realtor | $185,581 |
| Real Estate Broker Associate | $184,582 |
| Real Estate Attorney | $181,082 |
| New Home Sales Consultant | |
| Investment Consultant | $147,266 |
Mortgage Loan Officer – Earnings Up to $405,834
Primary Responsibility:
Mortgage loan officers help potential buyers secure home loans by evaluating financial documents and creditworthiness. They work with banks, mortgage brokers, and real estate agents to finalize real estate transactions.
Earning Potential:
- Top Salary: $405,834 +
- Average Salary: $178,323
Key Skills & Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or related field
- Knowledge of zoning regulations, necessary documents, and loan processing
- Strong sales and negotiation skills
Career Path:
- Earn a loan officer license
- Work with mortgage brokers or financial institutions
- Build a personal network of real estate professionals for referrals
Real Estate Investor / Flipper – Example Earnings Up to $392,000
Primary Responsibility:
Real estate investors buy, sell, or rent properties to generate profits. They use investment strategies like flipping houses, purchasing rental units, and investing in commercial properties to grow their wealth.
Earning Potential:
- Top Salary: $392,000 +
- Average Salary: $100,000+ (varies based on investment success)
Key Skills & Requirements:
- Deep understanding of market trends, property value, and financial side of investing
- Ability to analyze potential properties and identify profit opportunities
- Strong investment strategies and risk management skills
Career Path:
- Start with entry-level positions in real estate to learn market fundamentals
- Build capital and assist clients in small deals before scaling investments
- Expand into residential and commercial properties for long-term wealth
House Flipper – Earnings Up to $392,000
Primary Responsibility:
House flippers buy undervalued properties, renovate them, and resell for a profit. They work with contractors, real estate agents, and property managers to complete quick renovations.
Earning Potential:
- Top Salary: $392,000
- Average Annual Salary: $100,000+ (depends on number of properties flipped)
Key Skills & Requirements:
- Expertise in market trends, property value, and renovation costs
- Ability to find profitable properties
- Strong financial management skills
Career Path:
- Start with smaller properties and learn renovation processes
- Use investment strategies to finance larger projects
- Scale operations by managing properties across multiple markets
Commercial Real Estate Broker – Earnings Up to $296,500
Primary Responsibility:
Commercial real estate brokers assist clients in buying, selling, or leasing commercial properties such as office spaces, retail spaces, and industrial properties.
Earning Potential:
- Top Salary: $296,500
- Average Salary: $150,000 (includes commissions)
Key Skills & Requirements:
- Licensed professional with a real estate broker license
- Strong negotiation skills to close high-value deals
- Understanding of commercial properties and market trends
Career Path:
- Obtain a real estate broker license
- Work with an established brokerage
- Build a network of property owners and corporate clients
Real Estate Attorney – Earnings Up to $181,082
Primary Responsibility:
Real estate attorneys handle legal contracts, zoning regulations, and property disputes. They work with real estate investors, brokers, and property managers to ensure compliance.
Earning Potential:
- Top Salary: $181,082
- Average Salary: $120,000
Key Skills & Requirements:
- Bar exam certification
- Strong knowledge of real estate law and necessary documents
- Experience in handling contracts, property transactions, and litigation
Career Path:
- Earn a law degree and pass the bar exam
- Specialize in real estate law through a law firm
- Build a private practice or join corporate firms
Real Estate Broker Associate – Earnings Up to $184,582
Primary Responsibility:
Broker associates assist real estate brokers with client transactions and property management. They help negotiate contracts, assess property value, and handle paperwork.
Earning Potential:
- Top Salary: $184,582
- Average Salary: $120,000
Key Skills & Requirements:
- Real estate broker license
- Strong sales and negotiation skills
- Knowledge of real estate transactions and contract law
Career Path:
- Start as a real estate agent
- Earn a real estate broker license
- Join a high-performing brokerage firm
Home Inspector – Earnings Up to $246,084
Primary Responsibility:
Home inspectors evaluate properties for buyers and sellers, checking for structural issues, electrical systems, and zoning regulations.
Earning Potential:
- Top Salary: $246,084
- Average Salary: $120,000
Key Skills & Requirements:
- Home inspector certification
- Expertise in building codes and real estate law
- Strong attention to detail
Career Path:
- Obtain certification
- Work with real estate agents, property managers, and investors
- Start a private home inspection business
Real Estate Consultant – Earnings Up to $147,266
Primary Responsibility:
Real estate consultants provide personalized advice to clients on investments, market trends, and property management strategies.
Earning Potential:
- Top Salary: $147,266
- Average Salary: $90,000
Key Skills & Requirements:
- Deep understanding of real estate market trends
- Strong analytical and communication skills
- Experience in investment consulting
Career Path:
- Work in investment banking, real estate firms, or brokerages
- Build expertise in residential and commercial properties
- Offer independent consulting services
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Paying Career in Real Estate
The highest paying jobs in real estate include mortgage loan officers, house flippers, commercial brokers, and real estate attorneys. These roles offer high earning potential but require specialized skills, industry knowledge, and professional growth.
For those entering the real estate industry, the best career path depends on your skills and interests:
- Sales-driven professionals thrive as real estate brokers and agents
- Finance-oriented professionals excel as mortgage brokers and investment consultants
- Legal experts earn high salaries as real estate attorneys
Each career offers strong earning potential, professional growth, and opportunities to stay ahead in the market. Choosing the right path ensures long-term success and financial stability in the real estate industry. 🚀
