MF Development Associate Comp

Trying to get a feel for market comp for a development associate at top 25 REPE developer. My shop is top 10 and our range is $125-135k + 20-25% which I feel is low today. I’m looking for backup to get it increased. I hear Hines pays $140k + 30%. I think Greystar is $125k + 25% but could be wrong. Any other data points?

6 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some relevant data points for Development Associate compensation in real estate:

  1. General Development Associate Compensation:

    • Midwest Market: $100,000 base, $20,000-$40,000 bonus, 0.5% equity in each deal, 401K, and 100% health coverage.
    • California Major Submarkets: $85,000 base, $5,000-$10,000 bonus, 401K, and health coverage.
  2. Top Developers:

    • Hines: Reportedly pays $140,000 base + 30% bonus.
    • Greystar: Estimated at $125,000 base + 25% bonus (though this is not confirmed).
  3. Market Comparisons:

    • Development Manager roles in the Midwest are generally around $135,000-$150,000 base with a 20% bonus and 1-2% of promote cash flow.
    • Analysts and Associates at mega developers can range from $65,000-$125,000 base with bonuses around 30%, with higher levels participating in deal profits.

Your current range of $125,000-$135,000 base + 20-25% bonus seems competitive but slightly on the lower end compared to Hines. If you're looking to negotiate, the Hines benchmark of $140,000 + 30% could serve as a strong reference point.

Sources: What is your compensation in Real Estate Finance?, What is your compensation in Real Estate Finance?, 2017 Private Equity Report – 8 Category Highlights

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