Is it too late in the year for students to find real estate internships?

Finding a real estate internship can seem challenging for college and university students, especially as the calendar year progresses from winter to spring to summer. This article offers valuable insights from industry experts on real estate internships, even when time appears to be running out.

• Take Initiative for Real Estate Internships
• Seize Opportunities in Slower Seasons
• Showcase Expertise for Unpredictable Market
• Network Directly with Local Real Estate Firms
• Proactively Create Sales Internship Opportunities
• Stand Out in Less Competitive Seasons
• Pursue Hands-On Real Estate Experience Year-Round
• Smaller Teams Offer Valuable Learning Experiences
• Target Growing Teams for ISA Roles
• Explore Year-Round Real Estate Internship Options
• Gain Diverse Real Estate Experience Anytime
• Reach Out Directly to Local Investors
• Align Skills with Boston’s Market Demands
• Target Real Estate Education Companies Now
• Create Opportunities with Independent Brokerages
• Demonstrate Value to Secure Late Internships
• Network Proactively for Real Estate Opportunities

Take Initiative for Real Estate Internships

It’s not too late at all. Now is actually a great time for students to get their foot in the door. Real estate doesn’t run on an academic calendar; it runs on market activity, and summer is one of the busiest times of the year. At our company, we’ve brought interns on mid-summer and even into early fall. What matters most is showing up with curiosity, work ethic, and a willingness to learn fast.

My advice? Reach out directly to brokerages, mortgage firms, property management companies — anywhere you think you can add value. Don’t wait for a listing to pop up. A short, thoughtful email with a clear ask and a genuine interest goes a long way.

Real estate rewards people who take initiative. It’s never too late if you’re ready to hustle.

Alex Shekhtman, CEO & Founder, LBC Mortgage

Seize Opportunities in Slower Seasons

Real estate never pauses. The busy season draws crowds, but the rest of the year offers steady opportunities. Teams often need help without warning. Internships appear when someone steps up and offers support.

Many students wait for the right time. They hope for perfect conditions. That approach wastes opportunities. Slower seasons mean less competition and more time for learning. Interns often handle marketing, office tasks, or events. These build skills needed for long-term growth.

Success starts with showing up. Many teams look for people willing to learn and work hard. Real estate values action. Timing matters less than energy, commitment, and a willingness to tackle tough jobs.

John Gluch, Owner, Gluch Group

Showcase Expertise for Unpredictable Market

From our perspective in the higher education space, it’s never too late to find an internship in real estate, especially with the unpredictable nature of the current market. With how fast things can change in real estate, your best time to get into the industry in any capacity is now. One day it’s low inventory, and the next day buyers are standing pat in their current homes. At the same time, home prices don’t seem to be falling anytime soon. So there’s always something valuable to learn in the industry — if you’re looking for an internship here, it’s certainly not too late, especially if you can showcase your expertise in other areas, such as social media marketing. Being a multi-faceted member of any team will help you solidify a potential role in what is currently an unpredictable market.

Joe Klenk, Director of Marketing, Pennsylvania Institute of Technology

Network Directly with Local Real Estate Firms

It’s definitely not too late in the year for students to land an internship in real estate. Many firms — especially smaller companies and investors — don’t hire interns on a rigid recruiting calendar like larger corporations do. In my experience, companies in real estate are often open to bringing on interns year-round, particularly when business is picking up for the summer or when extra help is needed on active deals. Students just need to be proactive and flexible.

My advice: don’t wait for formal listings. Reach out directly to local real estate investors, brokers, property managers, or development firms. Show genuine interest and offer to help on projects — even if it starts unpaid. The industry values hustle, and a lot of opportunities come through networking rather than job boards. If a student can get their foot in the door now, they’ll build skills and connections that could turn into a long-term opportunity after graduation.

Parker McInnis, Owner, Speedy Sale Home Buyers

Proactively Create Sales Internship Opportunities

It is not too late to secure a sales internship, no matter how late in the year it may be. Companies, especially in the insurance and fintech sectors, constantly seek new talent because they operate within a fast-paced sales environment. Your enthusiasm matters more than the date because it determines your success. Your opportunity remains intact, so let us move forward together.

Proactivity stands as the key to success. Instead of waiting for job openings, you should establish contact with companies directly. Small businesses and startups make perfect targets because they welcome ambitious candidates. Present a compelling LinkedIn message or send a sales pitch via email to sales managers, demonstrating your capability to serve them. The hustle that defines sales demonstrates your readiness to succeed.

Networking is your best friend. You should activate your school’s alumni connections, contact field professionals, and even send a friendly direct message to startup founders. Your message needs to be straightforward when demonstrating your excitement and explaining your capabilities to help. Anytime you establish a positive connection can lead to opportunities will emerge. Remote options allow you to search for opportunities beyond your immediate surroundings, so you should think bigger.

Sales teams actively seek people who can initiate powerful movements, regardless of the current time of year. I have observed numerous students who obtained their roles after the year began because they demonstrated determination. A strategically timed message to smaller companies could help you secure a position due to their potential immediate requirements. Your success in short-term work can lead to more substantial opportunities when you perform exceptionally well.

Apply to projects that do not exist yet rather than waiting for job openings. Contact your preferred company to propose doing a specific limited assignment, which could include generating new sales strategies or searching for potential customers. Your bold and unique approach demonstrates your readiness to bring immediate value to the organization. You should not wait for job openings since you can establish your entrance by making your own opportunity.

André Disselkamp, Co-Founder, Insurancy

Stand Out in Less Competitive Seasons

Honestly, this time of year can actually be a smart moment to look for an internship in real estate. Most students aim for spring or early summer, so by July, there’s less competition. That gives late movers a chance to stand out. Plus, real estate doesn’t run on a school calendar. The market in Metro Atlanta, for example, remains active year-round, and strong teams are always seeking support. 

What matters more than timing is how a student presents themselves. Are they curious, coachable, and ready to jump in? That gets my attention a lot faster than a perfectly timed resume. And real estate is hands-on. If someone wants to learn how to deal with clients, manage listings, or understand contracts, there’s no better way than diving in — no matter the month. 

I’ve seen great interns start in August or even later, and many of them stayed on long-term. So no, it’s not too late. If anything, now might be the perfect window for someone who’s serious about breaking into the field and is willing to reach out, ask questions, and offer real value. The door isn’t closed. You just have to knock a little louder.

Justin Landis, Founder, Justin Landis Group

Pursue Hands-On Real Estate Experience Year-Round

It’s definitely not too late in the year for college or university students to find an internship in real estate. In fact, summer and early fall are great times to jump in. The market doesn’t slow down just because the semester is underway. There’s always work to do and, more importantly, always something to learn. Real estate is a relationship business, and there’s real value in getting exposure during active months. Students can learn how agents handle listings, navigate negotiations, and manage client relationships in real-time. That kind of hands-on experience is something no textbook can offer.

From where I sit, most teams are open to fresh talent with energy and curiosity. Even if a formal internship isn’t posted, reaching out directly can open doors. A lot of teams appreciate someone who’s proactive and willing to learn. That initiative alone speaks volumes. When I started out, I didn’t wait for opportunities to land in my lap. I chased them. Real estate rewards that kind of drive. So my advice to students is simple: don’t overthink the timing. Jump in, ask questions, show up, and stay curious. The right time is whenever you’re ready to learn and contribute.

Jimmy Welch, President, The Jimmy Welch Team

Smaller Teams Offer Valuable Learning Experiences

Not at all. In fact, summer can be a great time for students to get their foot in the door, especially in real estate, where things tend to move quickly. Our industry doesn’t follow the same seasonal hiring cycles that you might see in corporate settings. Real estate is a relationship business, and there’s always something happening. Students who reach out now with genuine interest and a willingness to learn will often find opportunities others overlook. What matters most is attitude. If someone comes to me hungry to understand the market, eager to shadow open houses, and ready to learn the ropes, I’ll make room for them. 

The second half of the year is also when planning ramps up for the next, so it’s the perfect time to be in the room, listening, helping, and absorbing what actually drives success in this business. I’d also encourage students not to focus only on big-name brokerages. Smaller teams like mine often offer more hands-on experience, more access, and a better look at the day-to-day of a real estate career. So no, it’s not too late. But don’t wait around. Reach out, show up, and be ready to add value. That’s what gets noticed.

Matt Ward, Team Lead, The Matt Ward Group

Target Growing Teams for ISA Roles

It’s not too late. Real estate moves year-round, and so do opportunities. While summer internships get the spotlight, fall and winter bring chances to stand out. Brokerages still need help with research, data entry, digital marketing, and open house coordination. Many teams are short-staffed during back-to-school months. That creates an opening for students willing to jump in and contribute.

In my office, we’ve welcomed interns who started in September and became licensed agents by graduation. They helped update MLS listings, managed our CRM, and shadowed listing appointments. That experience builds skills faster than sitting in a classroom. Students with initiative find value in off-season work. They learn client communication, negotiation preparation, and even local zoning policies. Those lessons aren’t tied to a summer calendar.

If you’re in school, align with a local team, not just big firms. Smaller offices move more quickly and offer broader exposure. You’ll likely touch more of the process, from lead generation to post-closing. Start with outreach. Offer to assist with weekend showings or database cleanups. That gets your foot in the door. What matters is showing up ready to learn. In this business, people notice effort. Timing is just one part. Consistency beats the calendar every time.

Jeff Burke, CEO, Jeff Burke & Associates

Explore Year-Round Real Estate Internship Options

It’s not too late at all. After 20+ years in this industry, I’ve seen some of the best talent come from unconventional timing — real estate doesn’t follow academic calendars.

Here’s what most students don’t realize: ISA (Inside Sales Agent) departments are exploding right now and desperately need fresh talent. We’re constantly hiring and training database managers because the demand is insane — we place ISAs in real estate companies across North America, and there’s literally more opportunity than people to fill roles.

The conversion rates tell the whole story. When I track ISA departments nationwide, we’re seeing 7-9% answer rates on cold calls, which means teams need volume and persistence — exactly what hungry students can provide. One team I worked with recently found 4,000 untouched leads in their CRM while other agents were just batch emailing. The student-aged ISA who started calling got a million-dollar buyer on his first call.

Skip the big brokerages and target growing real estate teams instead. They need people who can handle 80 calls a day, manage follow-up sequences, and turn leads into appointments. It’s 2-3 hours of focused work that teaches you the entire sales funnel, and honestly, most agents can’t handle the rejection, but students grinding through finals can definitely handle hanging up on prospects.

Preston Guyton, Co-Founder, Digital Maverick

Gain Diverse Real Estate Experience Anytime

I can confidently say that it is never too late for college and university students to find an internship in the real estate industry. In fact, internships are a crucial aspect of building a successful career in this field.

Let’s address the misconception that internships are only available during specific times of the year. While it is true that many companies offer summer internships, there are also plenty of opportunities throughout the entire year. Some companies even offer part-time or remote internships, making them more accessible for students who may have other commitments during the traditional internship season.

Furthermore, as someone who has hired interns in the past, I can attest to the fact that internships are not just about getting coffee and making copies. In fact, interns often have the opportunity to work on meaningful projects and contribute to the company in a significant way. Internships also provide valuable networking opportunities and allow interns to gain hands-on experience in their chosen field.

Michael Yerardi, Founder & CEO, Turning Point Home Buyers

Reach Out Directly to Local Investors

I can confidently say that it’s never too late for college and university students to pursue an internship in real estate. While certain industries may have specific timelines for internships, the real estate industry is dynamic and constantly evolving, making it possible to find internships at any time of the year.

In fact, many real estate companies offer internships throughout the year as they recognize the value of bringing fresh perspectives and ideas into their teams. As a student pursuing a career in real estate, this presents an opportunity to gain hands-on experience and learn from experienced professionals.

Internships in real estate offer a diverse range of opportunities — from assisting in property management and leasing to market research and analysis. This allows students to explore different areas within the industry and discover their strengths and interests.

Geremy Yamamoto, Founder, Eazy House Sale

Align Skills with Boston’s Market Demands

It’s definitely not too late — many real estate investors, myself included, look for extra hands year-round, especially as deals heat up in summer. When I was in college, I started by reaching out directly to local investors and offering to help with anything — analyzing deals, setting up open houses, or just running spreadsheets. Being proactive is key: shoot over a quick intro email, connect on LinkedIn, or even walk into a brokerage and introduce yourself. Opportunity moves fast in real estate, and sometimes your timing — no matter the month — just needs to match a busy investor’s need for help.

Casey Ryan, Founder, We Buy Any Vegas House

Target Real Estate Education Companies Now

I can assure college and university students that it’s not too late in the year to secure an internship in real estate, even in a competitive market like ours. The industry, particularly in high-end residential and boutique commercial spaces, values fresh perspectives and hustle, regardless of the calendar. Firms in Cambridge, Back Bay, and the North Shore often seek interns year-round to assist with market research, client outreach, and property showings, especially as projects ramp up in late summer and fall. My own path, moving from Lebanon to Boston 12 years ago, taught me that timing matters less than persistence and a willingness to learn the market’s nuances.

When you’re aiming for a career in real estate, you’ll find opportunities often emerge when you align your skills with the market’s demands. Boston’s unique blend of historic charm and modern luxury creates a constant need for research on zoning laws, property histories, and emerging neighborhoods — tasks perfect for interns. I’ve seen students join firms as late as October, diving into projects like analyzing waterfront property trends for North Shore clients or preparing pitch books for Beacon Hill listings.

One challenge students face is the perception that late-year internships are scarce, but that’s not the case in a dynamic market like Boston’s. For instance, a client recently needed urgent research on Cambridge condo conversions, and we brought in a fall intern who provided critical data that shaped the deal. Firms value students who can jump in, learn fast, and handle real-time tasks like assessing property investment potential or crafting client presentations. My advice: reach out directly to boutique firms or developers, as they’re more flexible than larger corporations and often need extra hands for specific projects.

To break in, focus on practical steps that show initiative. Email local agencies with a concise pitch highlighting your interest in Boston’s luxury market — mention specific neighborhoods like Back Bay or the North Shore to show you’ve done your homework. Offer to assist with tasks like open house coordination or market analysis, which are in demand year-round. Networking events, even virtual ones, hosted by Boston real estate groups can also connect you with mentors looking for eager students. Your fresh perspective, combined with a willingness to navigate this city’s complex market, can open doors even late in the year.

Yassien Youssef, Real Estate Investment and Development, Compass

Create Opportunities with Independent Brokerages

It’s not too late at all — I’ve seen students land valuable real estate positions even into the summer months. We’ve had students complete their 77-hour licensing course and transition into roles within 2-3 months of starting.

The key is targeting real estate education companies and online platforms right now. We’re constantly updating course content, creating state-specific materials for our 14 states, and need help with student support during peak enrollment periods. When we expanded to new states like Wisconsin and South Carolina, we needed extra hands to research licensing requirements and update our FAQ sections.

Focus on the licensing education side rather than traditional brokerages. Companies like ours process thousands of students annually and need help with course development, student onboarding, and regulatory compliance research. The work directly impacts how future agents enter the industry.

Start by reaching out to online real estate schools in your state. Many are scaling up their operations and need interns who understand both education and real estate fundamentals. The experience gives you industry knowledge before you even get licensed.

Andrew Anic, President, RealEstateU

Demonstrate Value to Secure Late Internships

It will be too late for students to find an internship if they are only looking at big-name brokerages with formal summer programs and assuming those are the only way in. In real estate, especially in Florida, timing is important, but flexibility and persistence matter more. The large firms tend to close their internship applications by early spring. But if a student is focused only on those, they are missing the real opportunities that happen year-round with independent brokerages and small teams that do not advertise internships but are always open to extra hands.

I have brought in interns as late as August. It depends on how they reach out and what they are offering to bring to the table. Most students just send a resume and wait. That never works. But the few who call, offer to come in for a day, or propose a specific skill like managing MLS data or helping with social video stand out immediately. In smaller teams, we do not need interns on a strict seasonal calendar. We need support that solves real problems.

If a student still wants an internship in late June or July, I tell them to stop applying through job boards and start showing up at open houses. Shake hands, ask good questions, and offer value. I hired a college junior last year who followed up after a showing with a mock-up of a local market report she created on Canva. That kind of initiative cuts through the noise.

So no, it is not too late. But the ones who still get in this late are not waiting for permission. They are already doing the work, even before we officially say yes.

Mark Sanchez, Senior Real Estate Manager, Gator Rated

Network Proactively for Real Estate Opportunities

It’s absolutely not too late for college and university students to secure a real estate internship this year; opportunities often materialize through direct outreach and demonstrating initiative. While many large corporate programs might have earlier deadlines, the dynamic nature of the real estate industry, especially with smaller firms and boutique brokerages, means there are always needs that arise throughout the year. The key is to proactively network and showcase a genuine passion for the industry, rather than solely relying on posted openings. Many of my most successful team members and industry connections started their journeys by simply reaching out to professionals, offering to assist, and proving their value.

Kim Lee, Licensed Realtor, Kim Lee – Vancouver Realtor