CRE in Commercial Banking
I’m at large bank in their commercial banking group focusing on CRE after 7 years doing debt brokerage (analyst) and cmbs lending (associate). I’m on the underwriting/credit side at this bank but already know I could transition to the relationship management side very easily if I wanted to.
Have been here a while but not too long, but I can tell this job will be super easy with limited critical thinking. My question is, what could someone do after this? Is this the end goal? I get paid well and have great WLB but everything just seems so simple.
Maybe I just wait for 3 years, have my 401k fully vest, and go back to a higher intensity shop. I don't know. Curious what you guys think.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, your situation in CRE within commercial banking offers a unique blend of stability, strong work-life balance (WLB), and solid compensation. However, it’s understandable that the simplicity of the role might leave you questioning long-term career fulfillment. Here are some insights and potential paths to consider:
Transition to Relationship Management (RM):
Since you mentioned that transitioning to the RM side would be easy, this could be a logical next step. Relationship managers often have more client-facing responsibilities, which can add variety and challenge to your role. Additionally, RMs at top CRE lending banks like First Republic or Silicon Valley Bank are known to earn significant compensation, especially in flagship groups.
Exit Opportunities:
Your background in debt brokerage, CMBS lending, and now CRE credit positions you well for several exit options:
Stay and Build:
If the compensation and WLB are excellent, staying for a few years to fully vest your 401k and build financial security is a smart move. During this time, you can continue networking and exploring other opportunities without rushing into a decision.
Specialization or Niche Expertise:
Consider developing expertise in a niche area, such as tax credit underwriting or specialized CRE asset classes. As noted in WSO threads, tax credits are becoming increasingly popular and can set you apart in the market.
Long-Term in Commercial Banking:
While commercial banking may lack the entrepreneurial aspect of other roles, it offers stability and opportunities to grow within the bank. Many banks have diverse lines of business, such as senior financing for private equity LBOs or institutional real estate financing, which could align with your interests.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your long-term goals. If you value stability and WLB, staying in commercial banking could be the end goal. However, if you crave more challenge and intensity, exploring exit opportunities in REPE, development, or acquisitions might be the right move. Networking and staying informed about market trends will be key to making the best decision.
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/real-estate/starting-my-career-in-cre-five-years-out-of-undergrad-brokerage-vs-development?customgpt=1, Career Path in Commercial Real Estate, 5 Things that Determine Your Success as a Commercial Real Estate Broker, , https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/other/commercial-banking-relationship-manager?customgpt=1
Bump
"super easy with limited critical thinking."
"Maybe I just wait for 3 years"
.............Meanwhile you might find yourself being there for 30+years LOL or thinking grass is greener on the other side, you might leave for a job that has a lower base (typically debt offers a higher base) hoping with bonuses, carry, promote, etc might make up for it and then return back to what you were previously doing because the comp or the satisfaction you hoped to get from the job was just not what you thought would be. That's the story for a lot of lifers on the debt side.
Valid points! Maybe I am just meant to be a debt financing lifer
That said, do people usually settle in once they are in their 30s? Or do they still like to have a challenge at work?
Curious about the same as I just turned 30 a week ago and have plenty left in the tank to grind if needed
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