Real Estate Development Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of real estate, the role of a Real Estate Development Manager has never been more critical.

As the real estate landscape evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can plan, coordinate, and oversee real estate projects grows significantly.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly is expected from a Real Estate Development Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complexities of real estate development,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable Real Estate Development Manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Real Estate Development Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Real Estate Development Managers oversee and manage the development of properties, ensuring they meet the financial and operational goals of the organization.

They are responsible for property sourcing, feasibility studies, and liaising with stakeholders.

Real Estate Development Managers have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Identify and evaluate prospective real estate development opportunities
• Conduct and analyze market research to determine profitability and feasibility of potential projects
• Coordinate with architects, builders, and contractors to develop project plans, designs and timelines
• Oversee and manage all phases of the property development process, from initial concept to completion
• Negotiate contracts and agreements with various stakeholders, such as landowners, local authorities, and service providers
• Ensure all development projects adhere to legal and regulatory requirements
• Prepare and manage project budgets and financial reports
• Manage relationships with investors and stakeholders, providing regular updates and resolving any issues that may arise
• Monitor property market trends and identify potential areas for growth and development
• Lead teams in the planning and execution of real estate development projects

 

Real Estate Development Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a motivated and experienced Real Estate Development Manager to oversee and execute our real estate development projects.

This role requires strong strategic planning, project management skills, and an understanding of real estate markets and trends.

The Real Estate Development Manager will be responsible for site acquisition, financial analysis, planning, design, construction, and the final delivery of the project.

 

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate potential development opportunities
• Conduct market research and financial analysis
• Manage the design, planning, and construction process
• Coordinate with stakeholders including architects, engineers, contractors, and government officials
• Negotiate contracts and agreements with vendors and partners
• Ensure compliance with local and federal real estate regulations
• Monitor project progress, budget, and timeline
• Communicate and present project status to senior management
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with industry professionals

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Real Estate Development Manager or similar role
• Strong understanding of real estate market and development process
• Excellent project management and leadership skills
• Strong negotiation and communication skills
• Familiarity with local and federal real estate regulations
• Proficiency in financial analysis and budgeting
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently
• Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Business, or related field. A Master’s degree or certification in Real Estate Development or Project Management is a plus.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Real Estate Development Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Travel may be required for site visits and meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Real Estate Development.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $100,000 minimum to $150,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Real Estate Development Manager Do?

Real Estate Development Managers typically work for real estate companies, construction companies, or as independent professionals.

They oversee all aspects of property development from conception to completion, including planning, budgeting, and execution.

They work closely with architects, city planners, and construction workers to ensure the project aligns with zoning laws, environmental regulations, and architectural design.

They negotiate contracts, obtain necessary permits, and manage the financial aspects of property development.

Their job is to ensure the project stays on schedule and within budget, while meeting the quality standards set by the company and the expectations of investors or property buyers.

Real Estate Development Managers are also responsible for conducting market research to identify potential development opportunities and analyzing the profitability of each project.

They may also be involved in the marketing and sales of the completed properties.

They are skilled in risk management, and they often have to make complex decisions under pressure.

Their role requires excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills, as well as a strong understanding of real estate laws and regulations.

Real Estate Development Managers play a key role in shaping our cities and communities by creating new residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

 

Real Estate Development Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Real Estate Development Manager should possess a blend of industry-specific knowledge, technical skills, and interpersonal qualities, such as:

• Extensive knowledge of real estate market trends, property valuation, and development processes to identify and capitalize on potential opportunities.
• Strong financial acumen to perform detailed cost analysis, budgeting, and financial modeling for development projects.
• Effective project management skills to oversee the entire development process, from site acquisition and planning to construction and sales.
• Excellent negotiation skills to deal with property owners, contractors, and local authorities for successful project execution.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills to establish and maintain relationships with stakeholders, including investors, architects, city officials, and community members.
• Strategic planning abilities to formulate and implement development strategies that align with the organization’s business goals.
• Problem-solving skills to identify potential issues and devise effective solutions throughout the development process.
• Good understanding of zoning regulations, construction laws, and environmental standards to ensure compliance in all development activities.

 

Real Estate Development Manager Experience Requirements

A Real Estate Development Manager often requires a minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a related field, with a strong emphasis on real estate development and project management.

Entry-level professionals in this field often start their careers with roles such as Real Estate Analyst, Property Manager, or Real Estate Associate, where they can gain hands-on experience in the real estate market, property valuation, and negotiations.

Candidates with about 3-5 years of experience may have had exposure to financial modeling, project budgeting, land acquisition, and development planning.

They are often proficient in understanding zoning laws and real estate regulations.

They are usually in roles like Real Estate Consultant, Project Coordinator, or Senior Real Estate Analyst.

Those with over 5 years of experience are likely to have gained solid leadership experience, overseeing multiple real estate projects, and leading teams.

They may have held roles such as Senior Project Manager or Director of Real Estate Development.

Such candidates are typically well-versed in strategic planning, risk management, and have a strong network within the real estate industry.

In addition to practical experience, a Real Estate Development Manager often has a degree in Business Administration, Real Estate, Finance, or a related field.

Advanced degrees or certifications in real estate can further bolster a candidate’s qualifications.

 

Real Estate Development Manager Education and Training Requirements

Real Estate Development Managers typically require a bachelor’s degree in real estate, business, finance, or a related field.

A strong understanding of real estate law, finance, economics, and market trends is often necessary for these roles, along with excellent negotiation and communication skills.

Some positions may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or a related field, especially for high-level, strategic positions.

Certifications such as the Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) or the Certified Property Manager (CPM) from the Institute of Real Estate Management can be beneficial, showcasing a candidate’s advanced knowledge and commitment to the industry.

In addition, real estate development managers must also hold a real estate broker’s license, which requires passing a state-administered exam.

Prior work experience in real estate sales, property management, or construction is also highly beneficial.

Continuing education in the form of workshops, seminars, or additional certification programs is often encouraged to stay current with the evolving real estate market trends and regulations.

 

Real Estate Development Manager Salary Expectations

A Real Estate Development Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $97,500 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can fluctuate based on factors such as industry experience, educational background, project size, and the geographical location of the property.

 

Real Estate Development Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Real Estate Development Manager need?

Real Estate Development Managers should have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as they will often be tasked with analyzing market trends and assessing the feasibility of potential projects.

They should have excellent communication skills to negotiate deals, present proposals, and collaborate with other professionals involved in the project.

Knowledge of real estate laws and regulations, financial acumen to manage budgets and assess profitability, and project management skills to oversee projects from inception to completion are also essential.

 

Do Real Estate Development Managers need a degree?

Yes, most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field.

Some employers may prefer candidates with a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) or Real Estate Development.

Furthermore, experience in real estate development or a related field is often required.

Some states may also require Real Estate Development Managers to hold a real estate broker’s license.

 

What should you look for in a Real Estate Development Manager resume?

A Real Estate Development Manager resume should showcase a combination of education, experience, and skills related to real estate development.

This can include project management experience, knowledge of real estate law, financial analysis skills, and experience negotiating contracts.

Look for evidence of successful real estate development projects they have managed.

Certifications such as the Certified Property Manager (CPM) or Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Real Estate Development Manager?

A good Real Estate Development Manager is a strategic thinker who can evaluate market conditions and identify profitable opportunities.

They are detail-oriented and have strong negotiation skills to secure the best terms in contracts and deals.

Excellent communication skills are essential, as they will often need to present complex information to clients, stakeholders, or team members.

They also need to be adaptable, able to manage risk, and work well under pressure to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Real Estate Development Manager?

Hiring a Real Estate Development Manager can be challenging due to the specific skills, knowledge, and experience required for the role.

It’s important to have a thorough recruitment process to identify candidates who not only have the necessary qualifications and experience but also the soft skills that will enable them to succeed in this role.

Providing a competitive salary and benefits package, opportunities for professional development, and a positive work environment can help attract top candidates.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve laid bare what it truly means to be a Real Estate Development Manager.

Surprise?

It’s not merely about selling properties.

It’s about creating sustainable living spaces, one property at a time.

Armed with our indispensable Real Estate Development Manager job description template and real-life examples, you’re geared up for the next step.

However, why limit yourself?

Dig further with our job description generator. It’s your crucial tool for crafting impeccable job listings or fine-tuning your CV to absolute perfection.

Always remember:

Every property developed is a part of the larger community.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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