Real estate agent or banking commercial manager: which is more profitable?

Differences between a banking commercial manager and a real estate agent

These two professions are focused on sales and customer relationships, as both are sales-oriented. However, it is important to highlight some differences in their roles.

Banking commercial manager

To become a banking commercial manager, a university degree or studies in fields like Finance, Business Administration, or Accounting, which provide foundational knowledge, are generally required.

Additionally, this professional receives company-sponsored training, specializing in the institution’s products, banking regulations, and the development of sales skills.

Their day-to-day responsibilities include:

• Offering financial products: loans, mortgages, insurance, or investment plans to individual or corporate clients.

• Managing accounts.

• Building client loyalty through personalized service.

This profession operates within a fixed schedule set by the company and requires in-person attendance.

Real estate agent

On the other hand, being a real estate agent does not require a university degree, although it is valued. Generally, companies provide training for their employees. At Engel & Völkers, our agents receive training through our academy and ongoing seminars.

In this profession, negotiation skills and strong communication abilities are essential, as the tasks include:

• Attracting clients and properties.

• Advising and guiding clients on the real estate market and legal or financial topics.

• Negotiating contracts or managing property viewings.

Real estate agents have the flexibility to organize their schedules as they see fit, and they also have the option to work partially remotely. For Engel & Völkers agents, there are office spaces available to work from if desired.

In conclusion, both professions require knowledge of their respective sectors, negotiation skills, strong communication abilities, and a customer-focused approach.

Commissions: banking commercial manager vs. real estate agent

Although both professions share similarities, they differ significantly in terms of income and commission structures, which is worth analyzing to determine which is more profitable.

Commissions for banking commercial managers

Banking professionals benefit from financial stability, as they receive a monthly salary and small commissions. These commissions are variable and based on achieving commercial goals, acquiring new clients, or managing portfolios efficiently.

Due to these targets that must be met within a set timeframe, this profession becomes highly competitive. Furthermore, these extra earnings are not as generous compared to those of a real estate agent.

Real estate agent commissions for luxury properties

Real estate professionals earn a base salary, typically ranging from €1,500 to €3,000 per month. This salary is supplemented by commissions earned from successful property transactions.

The amount of additional income depends on various factors, such as the type of property or its location. For luxury properties, like those handled by Engel & Völkers, the commissions are among the most attractive in the market.

In summary, financially speaking, a real estate agent earns less frequent but far more generous commissions compared to a banking commercial manager. Moreover, the latter role is characterized by a more demanding and stressful work environment to meet targets.

Which has better career prospects: banking commercial manager or real estate agent?

From a professional standpoint, which role offers better long-term growth? When transitioning between career paths, it’s important to understand the potential goals you can achieve. This allows for an objective assessment of which option aligns best with your needs and aspirations.

Career development for banking commercial managers

For banking professionals, it is possible to climb the career ladder to higher roles with more responsibilities, such as branch manager or area supervisor.

However, as mentioned earlier, the banking sector is highly competitive. Advancing professionally requires navigating a challenging environment, which can be draining and demotivating if goals are not met.

Additionally, banking commercial managers have fewer options for professional independence. Establishing their own business is not an easy task, so they are often bound by company rules.

Career prospects for real estate agents

 In contrast, real estate agents have the opportunity to work independently, either for a company or by managing their own business.

Growth opportunities for real estate agents do not stop there. Within a company, they can advance and become success stories in the industry. Furthermore, the real estate market environment is much more welcoming, as it lacks the intense competition found in the banking sector.

At Engel & Völkers, our professionals enjoy the luxury of having a supportive team and experienced mentors who guide them toward success. Joining Engel & Völkers is the most favorable choice for achieving your goals and advancing your real estate career. Ready to take the leap?

Sales and clients: banking commercial manager vs. real estate agent

The commission structures in these sectors are determined by the types of sales and clients each professional works with. Therefore, analyzing these aspects is essential to understanding their day-to-day impact.

Sales and clients for banking commercial managers

Banking commercial managers can offer simple products like accounts or credit cards, which do not require a lengthy sales cycle. However, the products that generate the most profit are the more complex ones, such as mortgages, loans, or investments.

These products require more time to complete the sale. In this case, the range of clients this professional serves is very broad. Some clients may not even have a defined objective, which can make the transaction slower and more challenging.

Additionally, it is important to note that working with clients' capital over the long term raises their expectations for results and service. Changes in the financial market can negatively impact client sentiment, leading them to move their portfolios to another bank.

As a result, this professional faces high levels of pressure and stress to deliver the best results and achieve their targets.

Sales and clients for real estate agents

In the case of real estate agents, they also need time and effort to build trust with potential clients. Since they deal with high-value products, clients often require a longer decision-making process to ensure their needs are met.

However, in the real estate sector, agents typically serve clients with clear goals. Moreover, as real estate transactions are more emotionally driven than financial management, clients tend to establish closer relationships with their agents. In fact, thanks to this personalized service, clients are likely to return for future transactions.

This means that the sales process in real estate is much more pleasant and relaxed compared to that of a banking commercial manager. Real estate agents work in a friendlier environment, allowing them to enjoy and live their profession with passion.

An example of this is the professionals at Engel & Völkers, who experience the luxury of living their passion by having everything they need to succeed in their daily work: tools, branding, a support team, a network of contacts, and more.

In conclusion, due to the types of clients and transactions handled by banking professionals, their work is among the most demanding, competitive, and stressful. On the other hand, real estate agents enjoy their work daily, becoming deeply involved in each transaction.

 Comparing these two professions in all aspects, we can conclude that banking commercial managers, while benefiting from greater financial stability, face more pressure during their workday. Meanwhile, real estate agents enjoy less frequent but higher commissions in a much more favorable environment.

If your passion is helping others build their dreams in an environment that provides support and everything you need to enjoy your daily work, Engel & Völkers is looking for professionals like you. Join our team and experience the luxury of living from what makes you happy.