Entering 2026, the landscape for commercial real estate acquisition professionals presents a mixed bag of challenge and opportunity.
In the near term, market headwinds and reduced near-term acquisition activity means employers have more bargaining power—for now. In early 2026, we expect acquisition activity will warm up. As CRE firms begin planning for future activity, the mid-term outlook for acquisition hiring is getting brighter.
In this report we’re sharing our compensation guidance for commercial real estate acquisitions professionals by seniority level and geography. We’re also answering a number of the most common questions we receive from both employers and acquisition professionals.