Career roadmap
How to Become a Property Manager
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a property manager, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a property manager: (1) start as a leasing agent, (2) become an assistant manager, (3) earn credentials, (4) become a property manager, (5) advance. Most people need about 1–3 years of experience. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a property manager
Start as a leasing agent
Learn sales, tours and applications.
Become an assistant manager
Handle rent, renewals and residents.
Earn credentials
Pursue the CAM or ARM.
Become a property manager
Run a property.
Advance
Become a regional or portfolio manager.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma plus experience is typical; many property managers have degrees in business or real estate. Some states require a real estate license for leasing or management activities.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | Short-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 1–3 years of experience |
Certifications and licenses
- Certified Apartment Manager (CAM): National Apartment Association credential.
- Certified Property Manager (CPM): IREM credential for senior managers.
- Accredited Residential Manager (ARM): IREM credential for residential managers.
- Real estate license: Required in some states for property management.
Skills to build now
Start with leasing and marketing, fair housing compliance, and property management software, and practice customer service and conflict resolution. Learning the property manager vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Leasing Agent: Lease units and serve residents.
- Assistant Property Manager: Handle rent and operations.
- Property Manager: Run a property.
- Regional or Portfolio Manager: Oversee multiple properties.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Property Manager training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do I need a degree?
Not always. Many managers start as leasing agents.
How long does it take to become a property manager?
Most people need about 1–3 years of experience of training. A high school diploma plus experience is typical; many property managers have degrees in business or real estate. Some states require a real estate license for leasing or management activities.
Do you need a degree to be a property manager?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for property managers?
Common credentials include Certified Apartment Manager (CAM), Certified Property Manager (CPM), Accredited Residential Manager (ARM), and Real estate license. Some states require property managers to hold a real estate license or a property management license. Fair housing and landlord-tenant laws apply everywhere.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 11-9141 (Property, real estate, and community association managers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Property, real estate, and community association managers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.