Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs (Download our Free Guide to Start Today)
Jun 10, 2025
Wondering what the highest paying real estate jobs are and how you can land one without spending years climbing the corporate ladder or getting licensed first? The real estate industry is packed with six- and even seven-figure opportunities, from high-end brokers and investment advisors to full-time house flippers and portfolio-building rental investors.
In this article, we’re breaking down the top-earning careers in real estate, including the high-paying paths you can start today with zero experience. We'll even show you how to launch your investing journey now using our FREE Ultimate Guide To Start Real Estate Investing. Here’s what you’ll learn:
- What Are the Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs?
- Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs Without a License
- What Skills Do the Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs Require?
- Frequently Asked Questions About the Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs
Want to break into the highest paying real estate jobs—without needing a license or years of experience? Our proven investing strategies can help you start today.
Join our FREE live webinar and learn how to wholesale, flip, and build a rental portfolio—no busy work, just actionable steps used by top earners in real estate.
Our students have used this training to launch high-income careers from scratch. Seats are limited—reserve your spot now and take the first step today.
What Are the Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs?
Searching for the highest paying real estate jobs? Whether you're exploring licensed roles or want to break into real estate without a license, there’s no shortage of high-earning career paths. Below, we’ve ranked 19 traditional real estate jobs by average salary. If you're serious about unlocking the best real estate careers, here's where to start:
- Foreclosure Specialist: $38,934/year
- Home Inspector: $57,112/year
- Property Manager: $62,442/year
- Escrow Officer: $63,934/year
- Real Estate Appraiser: $65,951/year
- Real Estate Broker: $70,015/year (Plus Commission)
- Real Estate Investment Consultant: $72,585/year
- Real Estate Manager: $73,037/year
- Compliance Specialist: $74,040/year
- Property Accountant: $75,656/year
- New Home Sales Consultant: $85,452/year (Plus Commission)
- Real Estate Agent: $100,242/year
- Realtor: $101,543/year
- Real Estate Attorney: $118,403/year
- Real Estate Associate: $140,582/year
- Mortgage Loan Officer: $185,842/year (Plus Commission)
- Real Estate Wholesaler: $10K–$50K+ per deal
- House Flipper: $30K–$100K+ per project
- Buy and Hold Investor: Long-term cash flow & millions in equity
While some of these top-paying real estate roles require licensing or advanced training, the final three—wholesaling, flipping, and rentals—can be started today with the right education. Download our FREE Ultimate Guide To Start Real Estate Investing to learn how you can break into the highest paying real estate jobs without a license today.
*For in-depth training on real estate investing, Real Estate Skills offers extensive courses to get you ready to make your first investment! Attend our FREE Webinar Training and gain insider knowledge, expert strategies, and essential skills to make the most of every real estate opportunity that comes your way!
Foreclosure Specialist: $38,934/year
Foreclosure specialists help guide lenders, homeowners, and investors through the often complicated foreclosure process. They work with distressed properties, review loan documents, and assist in short sales or the sale of foreclosed homes. This job calls for a solid understanding of mortgage laws and what happens when borrowers fall behind. It’s a great fit for people with experience in real estate, banking, or law. While the typical salary is under $50,000, those working in high-foreclosure areas or who hold legal credentials can earn significantly more. It’s a specialized career path that tends to see more demand during economic downturns or in regions with rising default rates.
Home Inspector: $57,112/year
If you’ve ever bought a home, chances are a home inspector was involved behind the scenes. These pros take a close look at a property’s condition before a deal is finalized. They inspect the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical, and more—basically anything that could turn into a costly surprise later. After the walkthrough, they put together a report outlining what’s working, what’s not, and what might need attention down the road. Most states require inspectors to be licensed or certified, and many of the best ones build strong relationships with real estate agents who refer them to new clients. For someone who’s detail-oriented and prefers working solo without the pressure of sales, it can be a rewarding path with good flexibility and earning potential.
Property Manager: $62,442/year
A lot of people don’t realize just how much work goes into managing a property until they try doing it themselves. That’s where property managers come in. They handle everything from rent collection and maintenance calls to finding the right tenants and making sure everything’s up to code. It’s not always glamorous, but it keeps things running. Some managers work closely with landlords, while others take care of entire apartment buildings or commercial spaces. You don’t always need a fancy degree, but depending on the state, there might be licensing involved. People often get into this line of work after spending time in customer service, real estate, or business. If you like solving problems, staying organized, and want a steady income without the pressure of selling, this could be a solid path.
Escrow Officer: $63,934/year
Escrow officers play a behind-the-scenes but really important role in real estate deals. They act as the neutral go-between, making sure everything in the contract gets done before money and property officially change hands. That means working with buyers, sellers, lenders, and title companies to handle deposits, paperwork, and all the final details before closing. The job’s heavy on organization and attention to detail—you’re dealing with legal documents, timelines, and a lot of moving parts. Pay usually comes from a mix of salary and commissions, so how much you earn can depend on how many deals you’re handling. If you’re someone who likes working in a structured environment and doesn’t mind paperwork, it’s a stable career with solid earning potential.
Real Estate Appraiser: $65,951/year
Real estate appraisers are the ones who figure out what a property’s really worth. They look at things like the home’s condition, location, and what similar places nearby have sold for. Their work shows up in all kinds of situations—buying, refinancing, settling estates, even in court cases. Most appraisers work on their own, spending part of their time visiting properties and the rest writing up detailed reports for banks, buyers, or sellers. If you’re someone who likes digging into the details and working independently, it can be a solid path. Pay depends on your license level, with certified general appraisers earning the most. It does take some training and a license, but once you’re in, it’s a steady, well-respected role in the real estate world.
Real Estate Broker: $70,015/year
Real estate brokers go a step beyond agents—they’re not just closing deals, they’re running the show. Once licensed, brokers can work on their own, manage a team of agents, or even open up their own brokerage. That means they’re not just helping clients buy and sell—they’re building a business. Becoming a broker does take extra schooling and passing a tougher exam, but the payoff can be huge. Brokers can earn from their own deals and take a cut from the deals their agents close. It’s a great path for people who want more control, more responsibility, and the potential to grow something bigger than just a solo career.
Real Estate Investment Consultant: $72,585/year
Investment consultants help people make smart moves in real estate. They break down potential deals, run the numbers, and guide clients through financing options to figure out what actually makes sense. It’s part financial advisor, part real estate expert—so it’s a great fit for someone who enjoys strategy and isn’t afraid of spreadsheets. Some consultants work for larger firms, while others do their own thing. Either way, pay often depends on the size and success of the deals they’re involved in. If you like helping others build wealth and want a role where your advice really matters, this can be a rewarding lane to be in.
Real Estate Manager: $73,037/year
Real estate managers are the people making sure properties run smoothly, whether it's an apartment building, office space, or retail center. They handle day-to-day operations, work with tenants, keep budgets in check, and look for ways to boost a property's value over time. Depending on the role, they might also lead leasing teams or oversee marketing efforts to keep units filled. Some jobs are more hands-on, while others focus more on the financial side, especially when managing investment portfolios. A background in property management, finance, or construction definitely helps, and bigger companies often look for degrees in real estate or business. The base salary isn’t always sky-high, but managers who take on larger or luxury properties often earn more through bonuses and profit-sharing.
Compliance Specialist: $74,040/year
Compliance specialists are the people who make sure real estate businesses stay on the right side of the law. They deal with everything from zoning codes to fair housing rules, making sure the company follows local, state, and federal guidelines. That might mean reviewing policies, running internal audits, or pulling together reports for regulators. It’s a great fit for folks who like research, digging into the fine print, and helping companies avoid costly mistakes. It might not be the flashiest role in real estate, but it’s a steady, well-paid job that plays a big part behind the scenes, especially for brokerages, developers, and investment groups trying to keep up with changing laws.
Property Accountant: $75,656/year
Property accountants keep the financial side of real estate running smoothly. They track income and expenses, manage tax paperwork, and put together reports that help owners and investors understand how their properties are performing. A big part of the job is working with property managers, legal teams, and sometimes even tenants to make sure everything adds up. It’s a solid path for someone with an accounting or finance background who wants to be in real estate, but not in sales or day-to-day property management. As real estate deals and portfolios get more complex, good property accountants are becoming more valuable in both residential and commercial markets.
New Home Sales Consultant: $85,452/year (Plus Commission)
New home sales consultants help buyers through one of the most exciting parts of real estate—purchasing a brand-new home. They work directly with builders and clients, walking buyers through floor plans, upgrades, and financing options, and staying involved throughout the entire construction process. It’s a hands-on role where you’re the main point of contact from start to finish. Pay is usually commission-based, so how much you make really depends on the local market and the price of the homes you’re selling. If you’re a strong communicator, love real estate, and get excited about helping people bring their dream home to life, this can be a great fit.
Real Estate Agent: $100,242/year
Real estate agents are the ones most people think of when it comes to buying or selling a home. They help clients find the right property, list homes for sale, handle showings, negotiate deals, and guide everything through to closing. Even though they work under a licensed broker, agents have a lot of freedom, and their income is often tied to how many deals they close and how hot the market is. It’s a go-to career for people breaking into real estate, and with the right drive and local know-how, agents can build a strong reputation and a great income fast.
Realtor: $101,543/year
Realtors are licensed real estate pros who’ve taken things a step further by joining the National Association of Realtors (NAR). That membership comes with a strict code of ethics and access to tools and listings that aren’t always available to non-members. While they do many of the same things as agents—helping people buy and sell homes or commercial properties—being a Realtor can offer more credibility and support. It’s a smart move for anyone serious about building a long-term career in real estate and wanting to stand out in a competitive market.
Real Estate Attorney: $118,403/year
Real estate attorneys focus on the legal side of property deals. They help clients with everything from reviewing contracts and handling closings to settling disputes and navigating development projects. If things get messy, they’re also the ones who can represent clients in court. This isn’t an entry-level gig—you’ll need a law degree and a license to practice in your state—but it’s one of the highest-paying roles in real estate. Whether they’re working with investors, builders, or big firms, real estate attorneys are key to making sure deals are airtight and assets are protected.
Real Estate Associate: $140,582/year
Real estate associates are often just getting started in the business, working under a licensed broker while they build experience and work toward full licensure. They help with showings, handle paperwork, and assist in negotiations—doing much of what agents do, just with a little more support and oversight. It’s a common first step for people new to real estate, and there’s plenty of room to grow. As associates get more deals under their belt, they can start earning solid commissions and eventually move into more independent roles. If you're looking to break into sales and start working with clients, this is a great way to get your foot in the door.
Mortgage Loan Officer: $185,842/year (Plus Commission)
Mortgage loan officers, or MLOs, are the folks who help buyers and investors get the financing they need to close on real estate deals. They look at a borrower’s credit, walk them through different loan options, and stick with them through the application and closing process. It’s a job that takes both people skills and a good head for numbers. The more deals you close—and the stronger your network—the more you can earn, with top performers often hitting six figures thanks to commission-based pay. If you’re detail-oriented, comfortable with sales, and good at breaking down financial terms in a way people can actually understand, this could be a great fit.
Real Estate Wholesaler: $10K–$50K+ per deal
Wholesaling is one of the fastest (and most affordable) ways to break into real estate. You don’t need a license, a ton of cash, or even great credit to get started. The basic idea? You find a property at a deep discount, get it under contract, then assign that contract to a cash buyer for a fee. It’s all about spotting good deals and connecting the right people. How much you make depends on how many deals you close, but experienced wholesalers regularly pull in five-figure checks on a single assignment. If you’re good at finding motivated sellers and building relationships with buyers, wholesaling can easily out-earn many traditional real estate jobs.
Diana & Chase: $40K Profit from MLS Wholesaling in California
Before joining our program, Diana and Chase had never flipped a house or closed a wholesale deal. But they were ready to break into real estate and start earning fast.
Using the MLS wholesaling methods we teach, they landed two deals in Southern California—one of the toughest and most expensive markets in the country. And they did it with zero marketing budget and just eight written offers. Their total take-home? $40,000.
They partnered with a cash buyer, closed both contracts in weeks, and walked away with real money—all without direct mail, cold calling, or door knocking. This is what’s possible when you follow a proven strategy and take action.
Want to see exactly how they did it? Check out the full interview below:
House Flipper: $30K–$100K+ per project
House flipping is all about buying a fixer-upper, improving it, and selling it for more than you put in. The best flippers know how to spot undervalued properties, keep renovation costs under control, and sell at just the right time. When everything lines up, one good flip can bring in six figures in profit. It’s not exactly easy money—you’ll need either capital or access to private funding, plus a lot of hustle—but in hot markets where buyers want move-in-ready homes, the upside can be huge.
My First House Flip: $60K Profit
Before founding Real Estate Skills, I flipped my very first property over a decade ago—and made a $60,000 profit. I found a deeply discounted house, partnered with the right people, and used smart negotiation to create a five-figure opportunity.
This deal changed everything. It proved that flipping real estate could be life-changing without needing a license or a marketing budget. That same deal-making strategy is now baked into the curriculum we teach every day.
Want to see exactly how I did it? Watch the full breakdown below:
Buy and Hold Investor: Long-term cash flow & millions in equity
Buy-and-hold investing is all about playing the long game. You buy rental properties, hold onto them, and let time do the heavy lifting. Month after month, you collect cash flow from rent while your equity grows through appreciation and loan paydown. It might not feel as fast-paced as flipping or wholesaling, but over time, the returns can be massive—especially when you factor in tax perks and rising property values. For investors looking to build real wealth and income that lasts for decades, this is one of the most powerful strategies out there.
Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs Without a License
You might be surprised to learn that some of the highest paying real estate jobs don’t require a license at all. While most people assume you need to become a Realtor or get a broker’s license to earn serious money in real estate, that’s simply not the case. In fact, many real estate jobs without a license outperform traditional roles in terms of both income and scalability.
The best examples? Wholesaling, house flipping, and buy-and-hold rentals. These are three powerful real estate investing careers where individuals regularly earn five- and six-figure profits, without needing to pass a licensing exam. You can start fast, build wealth on your terms, and stay in control of your own income. If you’re searching for high paying unlicensed real estate jobs, these strategies are at the top of the list.
Download Our Ultimate Guide to Start Real Estate Investing
Want to break into the highest paying side of real estate—without a license? Our FREE Ultimate Guide shows you how to start wholesaling, flipping, or building a rental portfolio right away. It’s the exact roadmap thousands of new investors have used to do their first deals and launch real estate careers with no prior experience. Click here to download your free guide now and get started today:
What Skills Do the Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs Require?
Not sure which real estate path fits you best? Start by thinking about what you’re naturally good at. Every role in real estate calls for a different mix of strengths—some jobs are all about building relationships, while others lean more on numbers and strategy. Figuring out where you shine can point you toward the kind of work that not only suits you, but also pays well. Take a look at the table below to see how different skills line up with different career paths, and check out a few tips to help you grow faster once you’re in the game.
| Skill | Best-Suited Real Estate Jobs |
|---|---|
| Sales & Persuasion | Real Estate Agent, Realtor, Wholesaler, New Home Sales Consultant |
| Negotiation | House Flipper, Real Estate Broker, Mortgage Loan Officer |
| Analytical Thinking | Property Accountant, Investment Consultant, Real Estate Appraiser |
| Networking & Relationship Building | Realtor, Wholesaler, Compliance Specialist, Real Estate Manager |
| Project Management | Buy and Hold Investor, Property Manager, House Flipper |
| Legal & Regulatory Knowledge | Escrow Officer, Real Estate Attorney, Compliance Specialist |
| Detail Orientation | Home Inspector, Real Estate Appraiser, Property Accountant |
How to Choose the Best Paying Real Estate Job for You
With so many opportunities available, it can be hard to know where to begin. If you’re wondering how to start a real estate career or which role fits you best, the first step is asking the right questions. Whether you’re brand new or switching careers, your answers can help narrow down the best real estate job for beginners and experienced pros alike. Here are some important things to consider before jumping in:
- Do you prefer working independently or on a team?
- Are you looking for short-term profits or long-term wealth?
- Do you want to work with buyers and sellers, or invest in properties yourself?
- Are you willing to get licensed, or do you want to start without one?
- How much time can you commit weekly to building your real estate career?
- What’s your current risk tolerance and access to startup capital?
- Are you interested in passive income or active deal-making?
- Would you rather be client-facing or behind the scenes?
Answering these questions will help you focus on a path that aligns with your personality, lifestyle, and goals. If you’re just getting started, consider entry points like wholesaling or flipping—no license required, low upfront costs, and real-world experience fast. These roles not only generate income but also build the foundation for scaling into the highest paying real estate careers over time. No matter where you start, clarity and action are the keys to success in real estate.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs
Curious about which real estate careers bring in the biggest paychecks? This FAQ breaks down the highest-paying real estate jobs and what you need to know before diving in.
What is the highest paying real estate job?
Mortgage loan officers and real estate attorneys are among the highest salaried positions, but wholesalers, fix and flippers, and buy-and-hold investors often surpass that with much higher long-term earning potential.
Do you need a license for real estate investing?
No, you don’t need a license to wholesale, flip, or own rental properties. Many of the most lucrative strategies in real estate require no formal certification.
How much do wholesalers make in real estate?
Wholesalers typically earn $10,000 to $50,000 per deal. With consistency and the right training, some investors close multiple deals per month.
Is it possible to earn six figures in real estate without a degree?
Absolutely. Many real estate investors, agents, and consultants earn six figures or more without a college degree by mastering proven strategies and systems.
Which real estate careers have the most growth potential?
Flipping houses, rental property investing, and commercial brokerage offer massive long-term growth, especially when paired with mentorship and education.
How long does it take to start making money in real estate?
Some investors close their first deal in under 90 days, especially with wholesaling. Success depends on your strategy, effort, and access to mentorship.
Can I work in real estate part-time and still earn good money?
Yes, many people start part-time with wholesaling or rentals while working another job. It’s a flexible industry with strong income potential at any level.
Final Thoughts on the Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs Today
Real estate is packed with high-income opportunities—whether you’re working deals, managing properties, analyzing investments, or building a portfolio of rental homes. But the truth is, some of the highest paying real estate jobs don’t require a license at all.
If you want to build real wealth and take control of your income, roles like wholesaling, house flipping, and buy-and-hold investing offer unlimited upside—and you can start learning them today.
That’s exactly what we teach inside our Ultimate Guide to Real Estate Investing. It’s 100% free, and it gives you a clear, step-by-step path to get started in the most profitable corners of the real estate industry—without a license, experience, or a ton of capital.
Want to break into the highest paying real estate jobs—without needing a license or years of experience? Our proven investing strategies can help you start today.
Join our FREE live webinar and learn how to wholesale, flip, and build a rental portfolio—no busy work, just actionable steps used by top earners in real estate.
Our students have used this training to launch high-income careers from scratch. Seats are limited—reserve your spot now and take the first step today.
*Disclosure: Real Estate Skills is not a law firm, and the information contained here does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with an attorney before making any legal conclusions. The information presented here is educational in nature. All investments involve risks, and the past performance of an investment, industry, sector, and/or market does not guarantee future returns or results. Investors are responsible for any investment decision they make. Such decisions should be based on an evaluation of their financial situation, investment objectives, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs.
Alex Martinez, the founder of Real Estate Skills, is known for his strong, practical expertise in real estate, starting from a beginner with no family connections in the industry to completing over 50 real estate deals, including wholesale and flips, within his first year.
He has dedicated his career to providing cutting-edge education and resources for real estate professionals. He emphasizes the importance of self-taught knowledge through mentors, books, and hands-on experience.
His journey from earning a modest income to becoming a successful real estate entrepreneur and educator showcases his expertise and dedication to the field.
Ryan Zomorodi, co-founder and COO of Real Estate Skills, leverages his experience from a diverse background in real estate investment, construction management, and entrepreneurship to provide comprehensive education in the real estate sector.
His expertise is rooted in hands-on experience, extensive industry knowledge, and a commitment to empowering others through education.
Ryan's journey reflects a blend of practical experience and entrepreneurial success, contributing to his role in developing a platform that educates and supports aspiring real estate professionals.
Read Ryan's Full Bio >>
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