Structured Finance Analyst Looking to do RE IB/PE

Fellow Monkeys,

I seek to tap the WSO hivemind for some advice regarding my current situation and plan. Looking for external validation regarding my intentions to switch from an Analyst role in a structured finance group at a BB to a real estate group in either IB or PE. For background, I have always been interested in RE and would say I have a good understanding of the industry at a more micro scale (purchasing a house, cash flowing properties, ect.) , and would like to understand it at a more corporate level and make it my actual full-time job. 

Currently, I am trying to figure out where my efforts are best spent in order to make this switch. My ultimate goals are surrounding acquiring my own properties at a level of scale; which I feel I would be able to do in my own shop after 10+ yrs in a reputable RE IB & RE PE group. The issue I have in the immediate is figuring out how I should go about getting into such groups.

My plan is do re-educate myself on all the normal technicals that are required for IB interviews as my current domain of knowledge is more surrounding structuring ABS deals / the market niches that I focus on in my job.

Additionally, I wanted to hear if anyone had success with either of the WSO RE programs below / any other real estate IB prep course: 1) https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/courses/financial…, 2) https://www.wallstreetprep.com/self-study-program…

Last, and most important - was planning on reaching out to all alumni of my group / school possible who are in either REIB or REPE. 

Was thinking this timeline was possible for a lateral execution after bonuses are paid in July / August. Let me know what you guys think. Appreciate all input / hearing success stories on anyone who had success switching to RE at a BB.

Thanks!!

Most Helpful

REPE likely not possible without REIB, or at least IB. Have you thought about an internal transfer? Depending on the BB, some give a massive leg up to internal movers. Structured finance is a pretty solid group so think you'd get some traction.

Of course, tough hiring market right now will make it difficult to move in ~6 months. IB is currently laying off, not hiring, and any places with a need are going to have pick of the litter of experienced IB folk - why pick someone with a somewhat relevant background when you have 50 apps with an extremely relevant background.

Would focus more on learning the corporate level and understanding big transactions, competitive landscape, etc - a "why RE IB" of "I want to buy my own properties and I bought a house once" is not a good story, so work on that too. 

I would cross-post this in the RE forum if you haven't already.

Iusto non suscipit assumenda non ducimus. Aspernatur doloribus aspernatur officiis perspiciatis consectetur sed natus quidem. Occaecati fugit error et delectus in. Maxime quis eos dolorum ut. Aut quasi animi ut. Consequuntur molestiae corrupti impedit suscipit. Quis rem nihil fugit deserunt quam vel.

Ad consequatur quibusdam et molestiae et. Nemo vel et quia ad illo in et officia. Qui voluptatem nemo aut voluptatem corporis occaecati facere. Vero vitae sit numquam nobis assumenda suscipit iusto. Cumque delectus voluptas est id in et. Eaque iure consequatur repudiandae cumque beatae libero. Autem sed iure ut a maiores dolore adipisci.

Career Advancement Opportunities

September 2023 Private Equity

  • The Riverside Company 99.5%
  • Warburg Pincus 98.9%
  • Blackstone Group 98.4%
  • KKR (Kohlberg Kravis Roberts) 97.9%
  • Bain Capital 97.4%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

September 2023 Private Equity

  • The Riverside Company 99.5%
  • Blackstone Group 98.9%
  • Ardian 98.4%
  • KKR (Kohlberg Kravis Roberts) 97.9%
  • Bain Capital 97.4%

Professional Growth Opportunities

September 2023 Private Equity

  • The Riverside Company 99.5%
  • Bain Capital 98.9%
  • Warburg Pincus 98.4%
  • Blackstone Group 97.9%
  • KKR (Kohlberg Kravis Roberts) 97.4%

Total Avg Compensation

September 2023 Private Equity

  • Principal (8) $676
  • Director/MD (22) $599
  • Vice President (88) $361
  • 3rd+ Year Associate (87) $277
  • 2nd Year Associate (197) $267
  • 1st Year Associate (376) $227
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (28) $157
  • 2nd Year Analyst (80) $133
  • 1st Year Analyst (237) $122
  • Intern/Summer Associate (31) $81
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (305) $59
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”