Can I Become a Real Estate Developer with No Experience?

May 5, 2025 | Kristi Kandel

Can I Become a Real Estate Developer with No Experience?

ASK:

"I’ve never developed anything before—how could I possibly break into real estate development without experience?"

ANSWER:

At I&D Consulting Services, we’re living proof that you don’t need experience to get started. You just need the right mindset.

My journey began on a construction site while working for a sign company. I was curious about how the whole process came together. One day, I asked the developer, “What does it take to become a real estate developer?” His answer stuck: “We’re a small company, about 20 people. We look for the right fit. We can teach someone how to be a developer.”
Without missing a beat, I said, “Great, when do I start?”

Just weeks later, I was in the trenches of real estate development, and never looked back.
That same philosophy became the foundation of I&D Consulting. Over the years, I have hired and trained people from all kinds of backgrounds. Teachers, sales, project management, healthcare, logistics, even web design. Not one of them had formal development experience. What they did have was grit, drive, and a shared mission to deliver excellent results and build community from the ground up.

So, no, you don’t need a résumé full of deals. But you do need to be someone who leans into risk, thrives on solving problems, works well with others, and is ready to learn. That’s how developers are made.
 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Experience isn’t required—character is. At I&D Consulting, we hire for mindset and teach the rest.
   
• Curiosity started my journey. One question changed everything, and now I'm opening the door for others through I&D and Local Real Estate Developers.
   
• Real estate welcomes diverse talent. From healthcare to logistics to tech, your background brings value to development.
   
• It’s about who you are. Resilient, resourceful, collaborative, and committed to community. That’s the true entry ticket.
   

PEOPLE ALSO ASK:

1. How long does it take to become a real estate developer?

• At I&D Consulting, and with our custom development project management software we’ve reduce a 2 year learning curve down to as little as 4 months. Proof that when supported by the right framework, tools, and mentorship anyone can learn the business of development.

2. What skills do real estate developers need to learn first?

• Start with understanding zoning, reading site plans, and conducting due diligence. LRED’s courses & mentorship guide you through each of these step by step.

3. Can I develop property as a side hustle?

• Absolutely. Many LRED members launch their first projects while working full-time. With the right systems and support, part-time development is both possible and sustainable.

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