Pipeline into debt fund?

Whats the optimal/most common way to get into a real estate debt fund? Is DCM guys from cre brokerage what they are looking for? What about structured finance/debt advisory?

Also, is there some equivalent to carry or other incentives at debt funds? Since the sums are a lot larger than at GPs and returns a lot lower %wise, whats the selling point for debt funds to come work for them? Lots of questions I know but Im a curious newbie so any input is appreciated :)

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They're usually looking for guys with a lending background - typically senior mortgage/structured finance guys, or equity/debt brokerage. Also at junior levels they'll pick up folks from the equity side as well.

Yes, debt funds offer carry - generally a smaller % of the pool given the size of funds as you mentioned. Overall compensation tends to be slightly lower than REPE from my understanding.

 

The high yield debt funds pay very competitively to REPE funds. Some are all cash and some give carry (similar to an equity fund it is a promote over a hurdle).

In terms of where people come from. It is sort of all over the place. Lot of structured product/bankers. I know some people that switched around from equity acquisitions to debt originations (if you think of debt as just another part of the capital stack, then the skill set is very transferable).

 

I’m considering transitioning to this side of the business. Currently in acquisitions, but am inclined to believe the debt side, particularly high yield, is interesting. Risk reward seems to be better than in acquisitions (at least now) and given that I really enjoy pure play finance, work seems like it could be more interesting as well. Securitizations, mezz, all seem if they can get fairly complicated. Any general thoughts / advice / how do you enjoy the work?

 
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