Education · 1 of 5

The path

There is no single degree for this. Most people work their way up and add a license along the way.

1. 1

   High school diploma

   Grade 12

   Enough to get hired into leasing. Take anything with math, writing and business in it.

2. 2

   Entry job on site

   1 to 2 years

   Leasing consultant, assistant manager or maintenance coordinator. You learn rent collection, showings, work orders and fair housing rules by doing them.

3. 3

   Get the state license

   2 to 6 months, part-time

   In most states, managing someone else's property for a fee means holding a real estate salesperson or broker license. Course, background check, state exam.

4. 4

   Run your own property

   Year 2 to 4

   You take over a site and become responsible for the budget, the staff and the owner's money.

5. 5

   Add a designation

   Later, while working

   The Certified Property Manager (CPM) or Accredited Residential Manager (ARM) credential from the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) is what moves you into regional and commercial work.