Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs (Download our Free Guide to Start Today)

Wondering what the highest paying real estate jobs are and how you can land one without spending years climbing the corporate ladder or getting licensed first? The real estate industry is packed with six- and even seven-figure opportunities, from high-end brokers and investment advisors to full-time house flippers and portfolio-building rental investors.

In this article, we’re breaking down the top-earning careers in real estate, including the high-paying paths you can start today with zero experience. We'll even show you how to launch your investing journey now using our FREE Ultimate Guide To Start Real Estate Investing. Here’s what you’ll learn:

• What Are the Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs?
• Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs Without a License
• What Skills Do the Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs Require?
• Frequently Asked Questions About the Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs

If you’re serious about doing your first real estate deal, don’t waste time guessing what works. Our FREE Training walks you through how to consistently find deals, flip houses, and build passive income—without expensive marketing or trial and error.

This FREE Training gives you the same system our students use to start fast and scale smart. Watch it today—so you can stop wondering and start closing.

What Are the Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs?

Wondering which real estate jobs actually pay the most? Whether you're thinking about getting licensed or looking for ways to earn without one, there are plenty of high-income options out there. We’ve pulled together 19 real estate careers (ranked by average salary), so you can see what’s possible and figure out which path might be the right fit.

1. Foreclosure Specialist: $38,934/year
2. Home Inspector: $57,112/year
3. Property Manager: $62,442/year  
4. Escrow Officer: $63,934/year
5. Real Estate Appraiser: $65,951/year
6. Real Estate Broker: $70,015/year  (Plus Commission)
7. Real Estate Investment Consultant: $72,585/year
8. Real Estate Manager: $73,037/year
9. Compliance Specialist: $74,040/year
10. Property Accountant: $75,656/year
11. New Home Sales Consultant: $85,452/year (Plus Commission)
12. Real Estate Agent: $100,242/year
13. Realtor: $101,543/year
14. Real Estate Attorney: $118,403/year
15. Real Estate Associate: $140,582/year
16. Mortgage Loan Officer: $185,842/year (Plus Commission)
17. Real Estate Wholesaler: $10K–$50K+ per deal
18. House Flipper: $30K–$100K+ per project
19. Buy and Hold Investor: Long-term cash flow & millions in equity

While some of these top-paying real estate roles require licensing or advanced training, the final three—wholesaling, flipping, and rentals—can be started today with the right education. Download our FREE Ultimate Guide To Start Real Estate Investing to learn how you can break into the highest paying real estate jobs without a license today.

*For in-depth training on real estate investing, Real Estate Skills offers extensive courses to get you ready to make your first investment! Attend our FREE Webinar Training and gain insider knowledge, expert strategies, and essential skills to make the most of every real estate opportunity that comes your way!

Foreclosure Specialist: $38,934/year

Foreclosure specialists play a key role when things go sideways in the housing market. They help lenders, homeowners, and sometimes investors navigate the legal and logistical side of foreclosures. That might mean reviewing loan docs, assisting with short sales, or coordinating the sale of bank-owned homes. This role is a good fit for folks with a background in real estate, finance, or law, especially if you know your way around mortgage regulations. Most earn under $50K a year, but in high-foreclosure markets or with legal credentials, pay can climb much higher. Demand tends to spike when the economy slows or default rates rise.

Home Inspector: $57,112/year

If you’ve ever bought a home, chances are a home inspector was involved behind the scenes. These pros take a close look at a property’s condition before a deal is finalized. They inspect the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical, and more—basically anything that could turn into a costly surprise later. After the walkthrough, they put together a report outlining what’s working, what’s not, and what might need attention down the road. Most states require inspectors to be licensed or certified, and many of the best ones build strong relationships with real estate agents who refer them to new clients. For someone who’s detail-oriented and prefers working solo without the pressure of sales, it can be a rewarding path with good flexibility and earning potential.

Property Manager: $62,442/year

A lot of people don’t realize just how much work goes into managing a property until they try doing it themselves. That’s where property managers come in. They handle everything from rent collection and maintenance calls to finding the right tenants and making sure everything’s up to code. It’s not always glamorous, but it keeps things running. Some managers work closely with landlords, while others take care of entire apartment buildings or commercial spaces. You don’t always need a fancy degree, but depending on the state, there might be licensing involved. People often get into this line of work after spending time in customer service, real estate, or business. If you like solving problems, staying organized, and want a steady income without the pressure of selling, this could be a solid path.

Escrow Officer: $63,934/year

Escrow officers play a crucial—though often low-profile—role in real estate transactions. They act as the neutral third party, making sure everything in the deal is handled correctly before money and ownership change hands. That includes coordinating with buyers, sellers, lenders, and title companies to manage deposits, paperwork, and closing details. Paydays are usually a combination of base salary and commissions, so income can vary depending on how many closings you’re involved in. For someone who enjoys structure and doesn't mind digging into paperwork, it’s a dependable career with good long-term potential.

Real Estate Appraiser: $65,951/year

Real estate appraisers appraisers are the ones who determine what a property is actually worth. Most appraisers work independently, splitting their time between site visits and writing up detailed valuations for lenders, buyers, or attorneys. If you’re someone who enjoys working solo and digging into data, it’s a career with solid stability. Income varies based on your license type—certified general appraisers tend to earn the highest. You’ll need some formal training and a license to get started, but it’s a respected role with consistent demand.

Real Estate Broker: $70,015/year

Real estate brokers go a step beyond agents—they’re not just closing deals, they’re running the show. Once licensed, brokers can work on their own, manage a team of agents, or even open up their own brokerage. That means they’re not just helping clients buy and sell—they’re building a business. Becoming a broker does take extra schooling and passing a tougher exam, but the payoff can be huge. Brokers can earn from their own deals and take a cut from the deals their agents close. It’s a great path for people who want more control, more responsibility, and the potential to grow something bigger than just a solo career.

Real Estate Investment Consultant: $72,585/year

Investment consultants help people make smart moves in real estate. They break down potential deals, run the numbers, and guide clients through financing options to figure out what actually makes sense. It’s part financial advisor, part real estate expert—so it’s a great fit for someone who enjoys strategy and isn’t afraid of spreadsheets. Some consultants work for larger firms, while others do their own thing. Either way, pay often depends on the size and success of the deals they’re involved in. If you like helping others build wealth and want a role where your advice really matters, this can be a rewarding lane to be in.

Real Estate Manager: $73,037/year

Real estate managers are the ones making sure properties stay on track. They handle the everyday tasks, but they’re also thinking about the bigger picture. A lot of the job comes down to finding ways to boost the property’s value, whether that’s through better occupancy or smarter budgeting. Some managers are on-site and involved with everything, while others focus more on the numbers and lead larger teams. Having experience in the field goes a long way, and for certain roles, companies may want someone with a business or finance degree. Salaries vary, but managing high-end or larger properties can come with solid bonuses and extra earning potential.

Compliance Specialist: $74,040/year

Compliance specialists in real estate keep companies out of trouble. They check that leases, marketing, and day-to-day operations follow the law. That means catching mistakes before they turn into lawsuits or fines. It’s not a flashy job, but it’s important, especially for brokerages or firms managing lots of properties. You’ll do well in this role if you're detail-oriented, up to date on housing laws, and not afraid to speak up when something looks off.

Property Accountant: $75,656/year

Property accountants handle the money side of real estate. They keep track of what’s coming in and going out, prep financial reports, and help owners understand if their properties are actually making money. They’re often in touch with property managers, legal teams, and sometimes tenants—basically anyone tied to the numbers. It’s a great fit if you’ve got a background in accounting or finance and want to work in real estate without being in sales or chasing leases. And with portfolios getting bigger and more complex, experienced property accountants are in high demand, especially in commercial and multi-unit housing.

New Home Sales Consultant: $85,452/year (Plus Commission)

New home sales consultants guide buyers through one of the most exciting parts of the real estate process—purchasing a brand-new home. They work closely with builders and clients, explaining floor plans, upgrade options, financing, and everything in between. From the first model home tour to the final walkthrough, they’re often the go-to person for the buyer. Since this role is commission-based, income depends heavily on the local market and the price points of the homes being sold. For strong communicators who enjoy helping people and don’t mind a fast-paced sales environment, it’s one of the highest paying real estate jobs that doesn’t require a traditional office setting.

Real Estate Agent: $100,242/year

Real estate agents are the ones most people think of when it comes to buying or selling a home. They help clients find the right property, list homes for sale, handle showings, negotiate deals, and guide everything through to closing. Even though they work under a licensed broker, agents have a lot of freedom, and their income is often tied to how many deals they close and how hot the market is. It’s a go-to career for people breaking into real estate, and with the right drive and local know-how, agents can build a strong reputation and a great income fast.

Realtor: $101,543/year

Realtors are licensed real estate pros who’ve taken things a step further by joining the National Association of Realtors (NAR). That membership comes with a strict code of ethics and access to tools and listings that aren’t always available to non-members. While they do many of the same things as agents—helping people buy and sell homes or commercial properties—being a Realtor can offer more credibility and support. It’s a smart move for anyone serious about building a long-term career in real estate and wanting to stand out in a competitive market.

Real Estate Attorney: $118,403/year

Real estate attorneys handle the legal side of buying, selling, and developing property. They review contracts, clear up disputes, and keep deals from falling apart. If something ends up in court, they’re the ones stepping in. This isn’t a starter job—you’ll need a law degree and a state license. But for those who qualify, it’s one of the highest paying real estate jobs. Builders, investors, and big firms all rely on attorneys to protect their deals and avoid costly mistakes.

Real Estate Associate: $140,582/year

Real estate associates are often just getting started in the business, working under a licensed broker while they build experience and work toward full licensure. They help with showings, handle paperwork, and assist in negotiations—doing much of what agents do, just with a little more support and oversight. It’s a common first step for people new to real estate, and there’s plenty of room to grow. As associates get more deals under their belt, they can start earning solid commissions and eventually move into more independent roles. If you're looking to break into sales and start working with clients, this is a great way to get your foot in the door.

Mortgage Loan Officer: $185,842/year (Plus Commission)

Mortgage loan officers, or MLOs, are the folks who help buyers and investors get the financing they need to close on real estate deals. They look at a borrower’s credit, walk them through different loan options, and stick with them through the application and closing process. It’s a job that takes both people skills and a good head for numbers. The more deals you close—and the stronger your network—the more you can earn, with top performers often hitting six figures thanks to commission-based pay. If you’re detail-oriented, comfortable with sales, and good at breaking down financial terms in a way people can actually understand, this could be a great fit.

Real Estate Wholesaler: $10K–$50K+ per deal

Wholesaling is a fast, low-cost way to get started in real estate. You don’t need a license, a big budget, or perfect credit. The job is simple in theory—you find a property with potential, lock it up under contract, then pass that contract to a cash buyer for a fee. The real skill is knowing how to spot a good deal and move quickly. Some wholesalers earn $10K or more on a single assignment, and top performers do multiple deals a month. For people who are great at finding motivated sellers and building a buyer list, it can compete with some of the highest-paying real estate jobs, without the overhead.

Diana & Chase: $40K Profit from MLS Wholesaling in California

Before joining our program, Diana and Chase had never flipped a house or closed a wholesale deal. But they were ready to break into real estate and start earning fast.

Using the MLS wholesaling methods we teach, they landed two deals in Southern California—one of the toughest and most expensive markets in the country. And they did it with zero marketing budget and just eight written offers. Their total take-home? $40,000.

Want to see exactly how they did it? Check out the full interview below:

House Flipper: $30K–$100K+ per project

House flipping is all about buying a fixer-upper, improving it, and selling it for more than you put in. The best flippers know how to spot undervalued properties, keep renovation costs under control, and sell at just the right time. When everything lines up, one good flip can bring in six figures in profit. It’s not exactly easy money—you’ll need either capital or access to private funding, plus a lot of hustle—but in hot markets where buyers want move-in-ready homes, the upside can be huge.

My First House Flip: $60K Profit

Before founding Real Estate Skills, I flipped my very first property over a decade ago—and made a $60,000 profit. I found a deeply discounted house, partnered with the right people, and used smart negotiation to create a five-figure opportunity.

This deal changed everything. It proved that flipping real estate could be life-changing without needing a license or a marketing budget. That same deal-making strategy is now baked into the curriculum we teach every day.

Want to see exactly how I did it? Watch the full breakdown below:

Buy and Hold Investor: Long-term cash flow & millions in equity

You buy a property, rent it out, and hold onto it. That’s the whole idea. The rent brings in steady income, and over time, the value of the place goes up. It’s not as flashy as flipping, but the long-term payoff can be huge. For people willing to be patient, buy-and-hold is one of the smartest plays—and it’s right up there with the highest paying real estate jobs if you scale it the right way.

Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs Without a License

You don’t need a real estate license to make serious money in this industry. In fact, some of the highest-paying real estate jobs are completely unlicensed, and they often offer more freedom and earning potential than traditional roles. If you’re looking for a way in without the red tape, these investment-based paths are worth a hard look.

Download Our Ultimate Guide to Start Real Estate Investing

Want to break into the highest paying side of real estate—without a license? Our FREE Ultimate Guide shows you how to start wholesaling, flipping, or building a rental portfolio right away. It’s the exact roadmap thousands of new investors have used to do their first deals and launch real estate careers with no prior experience. Click here to download your free guide now and get started today:

What Skills Do the Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs Require?

Not sure which real estate path fits you best? Start by thinking about what you’re naturally good at. Every role in real estate calls for a different mix of strengths—some jobs are all about building relationships, while others lean more on numbers and strategy. Figuring out where you shine can point you toward the kind of work that not only suits you, but also pays well. Take a look at the table below to see how different skills line up with different career paths, and check out a few tips to help you grow faster once you’re in the game.

How to Choose the Best Paying Real Estate Job for You

With so many opportunities available, it can be hard to know where to begin. If you’re wondering how to start a real estate career or which role fits you best, the first step is asking the right questions. Whether you’re brand new or switching careers, your answers can help narrow down the best real estate job for beginners and experienced pros alike. Here are some important things to consider before jumping in:

Answering these questions will help you focus on a path that aligns with your personality, lifestyle, and goals. If you’re just getting started, consider entry points like wholesaling or flipping—no license required, low upfront costs, and real-world experience fast. These roles not only generate income but also build the foundation for scaling into the highest paying real estate careers over time. No matter where you start, clarity and action are the keys to success in real estate.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs

Curious about which real estate careers bring in the biggest paychecks? This FAQ breaks down the highest-paying real estate jobs and what you need to know before diving in.

What is the highest paying real estate job?

Mortgage loan officers and real estate attorneys are among the highest salaried positions, but wholesalers, fix and flippers, and buy-and-hold investors often surpass that with much higher long-term earning potential.

Do you need a license for real estate investing?

No, you don’t need a license to wholesale, flip, or own rental properties. Many of the most lucrative strategies in real estate require no formal certification.

How much do wholesalers make in real estate?

Wholesalers typically earn $10,000 to $50,000 per deal. With consistency and the right training, some investors close multiple deals per month.

Is it possible to earn six figures in real estate without a degree?

Absolutely. Many real estate investors, agents, and consultants earn six figures or more without a college degree by mastering proven strategies and systems.

Which real estate careers have the most growth potential?

Flipping houses, rental property investing, and commercial brokerage offer massive long-term growth, especially when paired with mentorship and education.

How long does it take to start making money in real estate?

Some investors close their first deal in under 90 days, especially with wholesaling. Success depends on your strategy, effort, and access to mentorship.

Can I work in real estate part-time and still earn good money?

Yes, many people start part-time with wholesaling or rentals while working another job. It’s a flexible industry with strong income potential at any level.

Final Thoughts on the Highest Paying Real Estate Jobs Today

Real estate is packed with high-income opportunities—whether you’re working deals, managing properties, analyzing investments, or building a portfolio of rental homes. But the truth is, some of the highest paying real estate jobs don’t require a license at all.

If you want to build real wealth and take control of your income, roles like wholesaling, house flipping, and buy-and-hold investing offer unlimited upside—and you can start learning them today.

That’s exactly what we teach inside our Ultimate Guide to Real Estate Investing. It’s 100% free, and it gives you a clear, step-by-step path to get started in the most profitable corners of the real estate industry—without a license, experience, or a ton of capital.

If you’re serious about doing your first real estate deal, don’t waste time guessing what works. Our FREE Training walks you through how to consistently find deals, flip houses, and build passive income—without expensive marketing or trial and error.

This FREE Training gives you the same system our students use to start fast and scale smart. Watch it today—so you can stop wondering and start closing.

*Disclosure: Real Estate Skills is not a law firm, and the information contained here does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with an attorney before making any legal conclusions. The information presented here is educational in nature. All investments involve risks, and the past performance of an investment, industry, sector, and/or market does not guarantee future returns or results. Investors are responsible for any investment decision they make. Such decisions should be based on an evaluation of their financial situation, investment objectives, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs.