Real estate opporunities in DACH
I am a scandi student studying real estate finance at a local target school and I am trying to figure out what I can do to set myself up for the most opportunitites. I feel that the local market here is tiny with a large oversupply of qualified candidates and limited number job opportunities overall. Therefore I am thinking that in addition to applying to my local market, I should also target jobs in real estate transactions & investments in the EU+swiss markets. London is naturally a target market as well however visa sponsorship post-brexit seems to only leave opportunities with the largest international firms that also has intense competition.
I am considering that perhaps I would set myself up for the most opportunities by learning German and targeting real estate investment firms in DACH. My reasoning being that DACH is Europes largest real estate market and that as a native scandi speaker+fluent in english, German might not be that difficult. I am basically looking to maximize the opportunity that the EU internal job market provides.
I am aware that regular high finance roles in Germany also has intense competition from its own set of target schools; HSG, mannheim, WHU etc. But is it the same for real estate firms?
Am I missing something, is this a good idea or should I just keep gunning for opportunities locally + London?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, your strategy to target the DACH region for real estate opportunities seems well thought out. Here's why and how you can refine your approach:
DACH Real Estate Market: The DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) indeed represents one of Europe's largest and most stable real estate markets. Germany, in particular, has a strong real estate investment sector, with numerous opportunities in transactions, asset management, and development. Switzerland also offers attractive roles, though the market is smaller and more niche.
Language Advantage: Learning German is a smart move. As a Scandinavian speaker fluent in English, German should be relatively easier to pick up, and it will significantly enhance your employability in the DACH region. Many firms in Germany and Switzerland prefer or require German proficiency, especially for client-facing roles.
Competition in Real Estate vs. High Finance: While high finance roles in Germany are highly competitive due to strong local schools like HSG, Mannheim, and WHU, real estate firms may have slightly less intense competition. Real estate is a more specialized field, and your background in real estate finance could give you an edge, especially if you combine it with German language skills.
London Post-Brexit: Your observation about visa sponsorship in London is accurate. Post-Brexit, opportunities are more limited to large international firms, which are highly competitive. While London remains a top market, diversifying your focus to include the DACH region is a prudent move.
Maximizing EU Opportunities: By targeting the DACH region, you leverage the EU's internal job market, which is a significant advantage. Germany, in particular, has a relatively straightforward visa process for EU citizens, and the demand for skilled professionals in real estate remains strong.
Recommendations:
In summary, your idea to target the DACH region while learning German is a solid plan to maximize opportunities in real estate. Combining this with applications to your local market and London will give you a well-rounded strategy.
Sources: Recruiting in Zürich/ Geneva vs London, Is target MSc Finance still possible in my situation? (Bocconi, HEC, LSE, HSG....), Should I apply to Germany as well?, Real Estate Q&A, The Real Estate Job Hunt - How are people doing?
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