Leasing --> MF Acquisitions

I know this has been posted a million times (1,000,000x), and I figured my background differs a little. I've searched through the forum, and haven't found a thread with a background similar to mine. 

Wondering how one would approach a potential career path in order to end up in an acquisitions role given this background. 

Have been at a global brokerage shop (CBRE, JLL, etc) for 4 years. 3 of which doing office leasing in a HCOL city, 1 doing global transaction management. Had a stint at a boutique IB shop doing M&A for wealth managers prior to, so have modeling experience. Also know how to build out a basic proforma and waterfall. 

Question is: I know no one is hiring, the plan is to apply in about a year. How would one prepare? Am I basically required to go get an MRED/MBA?

Open to any ideas. 

3 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, it seems that transitioning from leasing to acquisitions, especially in a high cost of living city, is not unheard of. Your experience in global transaction management and your stint at a boutique IB shop doing M&A for wealth managers could be valuable, as it has given you modeling experience and the ability to build out a basic proforma and waterfall.

In terms of preparation, it might be beneficial to continue honing your financial modeling skills and deepen your understanding of the acquisitions process. Networking could also be a key part of your strategy, as it could help you learn more about the industry and potentially open up job opportunities.

As for the question about needing an MRED/MBA, it's not necessarily a requirement. In the REIT world, for example, experience, connections, and reputation often trump degrees. However, if there's an associate position open, firms will definitely accept MBA applications, especially if the candidate has some type of real estate experience.

So, while an MRED/MBA could potentially make you a more attractive candidate, it's not the only path to an acquisitions role. It might be worth considering if you feel it would significantly enhance your skills or open up new opportunities, but it's not a must-have.

Remember, this is just my two cents. Feel free to PM me if you want to discuss further.

Sources: Career Path - Development or Investments/Acquisitions, Life in Acquisitions (Analyst/Associate), Entry Level Development Roles - MRED Necessary?, Real Estate Career after MBA

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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