REPE Transition - Coming From RE Startup

Hey everyone, I have 3 YOE and just finished an M.S. in Math + Econ from a non-target state school (basically a degree in financial modeling and regression analysis - I would say I'm extremely comfortable with quantitative analysis in general). I have a B.A in Econ from a T5 university. Long story short, I work on an in-house RE+D team at a late-series start up. I've been in this current role for one year and have two years of brokerage experience (industrial) prior. Total comp is good but not great: ~$80k all-in HCOL SoCal location. It's worth noting that I really enjoy my job, but the exit-options / long-term career outlook for in-house CRE are not too appealing to me (low earnings ceiling, potentially monotonous work, lots of leasing but not much quantitative underwriting / deal analysis). 

Here are the potential paths I'm considering:

  • Transition into REPE 
  • Internally transfer to a more operational role > MBA > Venture or Tech Management 

Does anyone have some relevant insight? I'm torn on this decision, as I enjoy RE but feel that I may be over-qualified from a technical perspective and thus not maximizing my earning potential. However, the idea of starting at a REPE fund and having a relatively clear path to Partner is really appealing to me for long term financial goals. If I do pursue the REPE route, where should I start? Headhunters? 

Thanks in advance for any commentary. 

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