Help me hop the pond ! (REPE)
I’m a first-year investment analyst at a UMM buy-side firm in Paris/Frankfurt, involved in opportunistic/value-add real estate equity, development, hotels, and RE special-ops debt across Europe. I am getting great modeling and hands-on live deal exposure. I appreciate my team’s culture and the interesting diverse deals, but with below-market compensation, I plan not to stay beyond three years.
As an EU/U.S. dual citizen with an engineering background from a non-target European school and virtually no U.S. real estate finance network, I aim to transition to a similar front-office role in NY or LA, focusing on REPE, Debt, or REIB. My past experience includes a 6-month internship in the US at a top S&P500 REIT.
Despite my firm’s presence in New York, it lacks U.S. real estate operations. I’m exploring:
• Pursuing a top MBA or MSRE.
• Joining a more international firm for potential internal transfer.
• Starting with a smaller U.S. firm and working my way up.
Considering my non-affluent background, I’m paying for everything out of pocket and would like to limit debt, including part-time programs, for U.S. education.
I welcome insights and advice on these paths.
Thanks and happy holidays !
Ah, making the leap across the pond, are we? Quite the adventure! Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a breakdown of your options:
Pursuing a top MBA or MSRE: This could be a solid bridge to the U.S. market, especially since you're already packing a punch with your current experience. Top programs have the network and recruitment opportunities you're looking for. However, they can be pricey. Look for scholarships, or consider part-time programs that allow you to work simultaneously, reducing the financial burden.
Joining a more international firm: This could be a strategic move. If you can land a role at a firm with a strong U.S. presence, you might be able to swing an internal transfer. This path could provide a smoother transition, given the internal mobility and potential for company-sponsored relocation.
Starting with a smaller U.S. firm: This is the scrappy way to do it. You might not get the immediate prestige or compensation of a larger firm, but you'll likely gain diverse experience. Plus, smaller firms might appreciate your European market knowledge and hands-on deal experience.
Given your dual citizenship, you won't have to wrestle with visa issues, which is a huge plus. Leverage your internship experience at the S&P500 REIT and any connections you made there. Networking will be key, so start reaching out to alumni, LinkedIn connections, and any industry contacts you have.
And remember, the holidays are a great time for networking – people are often in a giving mood. So, don't hesitate to reach out with season's greetings and a side of career aspirations!
Happy holidays to you too, and best of luck with your transatlantic transition!
Sources: Transition from RE Development to REPE, Career Advice: Family Office (RE Developer) --> MBA --> REPE, Transitioning to REPE from top investment sales, Real Estate Investment Banking, Switching markets or property types in REPE
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