Houston-area business owner teaches young adults how to build a career in commercial real estate

Houston, TX – As the cost of living continues to rise, many people, especially young adults, are looking for ways to make more money.

Ed Ryland, CEO and president of ARVO Realty Advisors, has worked with young adults to help them start careers in commercial real estate, a field he describes as difficult to get into but extremely lucrative once mastered.

“We started mentoring young people, people of color and women years ago to introduce them to commercial real estate, even when they were in college. Once they graduated, we offered them internships and jobs within our organization so they could understand the ins and outs of commercial real estate,” Ryland said.

Ryland, who began his career more than 40 years ago, became interested in commercial real estate after making poor investment decisions.

“I started taking classes and shadowing experts in the field,” he said. “I got my license while I was still working for the State of Texas. After being laid off, I decided to give real estate a chance. That was almost 40 years ago and I haven’t looked for work since.”

To help young adults avoid the mistakes he made, Ryland aims to educate them about an important form of real estate that many may not know much about.

“When I was in university or college, we didn’t talk about commercial real estate,” he explains. “It is important to understand that commercial real estate is very different from residential real estate. Every transaction is unique and many factors must be considered, including economic conditions and interest rates. »

Steps to getting started in commercial real estate include:

1. Obtain your real estate license.

2. Choose between residential or commercial real estate.

3. Create a business plan.

4. Make a list of necessary training.

“We help you prepare a business plan detailing what you need to do to be successful,” Ryland said. “This includes the training courses you are required to complete and connecting you with a mentor within our organization.

Its objective is to introduce young people to commercial real estate from high school. Ryland actively visits middle and high schools to educate students about the benefits of real estate.

“We work with students from the University of Houston, TSU, Rice University and Prairie View University. I’m on the Prairie View board, and we talk to young people early in their careers, as well as those changing careers later in life,” he said.

For students interested in getting involved, Ryland suggests looking for internships or contacting his company at 713-952-5066 or [email protected].

“Be prepared financially and mentally,” he advised. “If you’re not married, don’t get married. If you don’t have a mortgage or car payment, avoid them. Stay with your parents if you can, as it can take 24 to 36 months to start generating income. Commercial real estate is a $1 trillion industry with significant underrepresentation, so if you’re looking for a challenge this summer, here’s your opportunity.