Hi Everyone,
If you had the opportunity as an analyst to negotiate a compensation structure at one of the big CRE Financing brokerages here in Canada, how would you structure it?
For example, Salary + Bonus, Base Salary + Commission, Full Commission?
Drop your thoughts below on why you would choose which structure, I need some advice haha.
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s a breakdown of potential compensation structures for a Commercial Mortgage Analyst in Canada and their pros/cons:
1. Base Salary + Bonus
2. Base Salary + Commission
3. Full Commission
Recommendation:
For an analyst role at a big CRE financing brokerage in Canada, Base Salary + Bonus is likely the most practical and preferred structure. It offers stability while still rewarding performance, which is crucial early in your career. As you gain experience and build a track record, transitioning to a Base Salary + Commission model could maximize your earnings while maintaining some security.
If you’re just starting out, focus on negotiating a competitive base salary and a clear, achievable bonus structure tied to your performance metrics.
Sources: What is your compensation in Real Estate Finance?, Commercial Real Estate Broker Compensation, So you want to be a CRE Broker?, What is your compensation in Real Estate Finance?, Toronto - Boutique Investment Banking Compensation
Base Salary + Commission will probably earn you the most and provide stability. However most analysts are paid at Base Salary + Bonus. I haven't heard of an analyst being full commission unless you are sourcing and closing your own deals.
Been there done bboth on mgmt side and analyst side - here is my preferred
Young analysts and even analysts with 2-3 yrs of experience, IF you want a good analyst you have to give some upside, and no a 15-25% bonus doesn't count as upside.
0-1 yrs exp = 70 - 75k salary + either 1-3% of gross commission of team, or a $ / deal bonus of $1,000+ per deal once closed.
More yrs of experience = more salary and higher on the range on the % of gross commission. UW salaries from my experience cap out at ~$100-$125,000 per year. Anything higher you're either on an institiional team or capital markets team.
If you want a deal oriented analyst who might work some overtime, don't give them a 15% bonus... instead give them a piece of the pie no matter how relatively small (1-3% as i mentioned).
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