Advice Needed: Rotational Grad Role (RICS) to Mortgage Trading Desk at BB/MM – Feasibility & Alternatives?

Hey everyone,

I'm looking for some advice from those who have been in a similar position or have insights into my situation. I’ll be starting a rotational graduate role in September at one of the big real estate firms in London (CBRE, Savills, Cushman, Newmark). The program is about 2.5 to 3 years, after which I'll get my RICS accreditation.

End Goal:
I want to transition to a mortgage trading desk at a BB or MM (ideally focusing on MBS trading).

Current Plan:
I’m split between two paths:

1. Maximise Research Experience: Focus on research/industry rotations to build a solid analytical skill set, then lateral to a credit rating agency to gain debt-focused experience, potentially skipping the grad program entirely if an opportunity comes up.
2. Maximise Transactional Experience: Leverage rotations in capital markets/investment advisory to move into a REIB/REPE team, again skipping the grad program entirely if an opportunity comes up.

What I'm Stuck On:

a) How feasible is this plan realistically? Would love to hear from anyone who has taken a similar path or made the switch from real estate to a mortgage trading desk.

b) Are there any alternative routes I should be considering that align better with my end goal?

Any advice on the practicality of these options or alternative strategies would be hugely appreciated.

Thanks in advance!