Private real estate compensation stopped flatlining during 2025 as dealmaking and fundraising momentum returned. Median remuneration rose across nearly every role tracked by Sousou Partners, breaking a two-year pattern of stagnation that had weighed on retention and morale. Hiring pipelines reopened after prolonged caution, allowing firms to compete for specialized operators rather than rationing opportunities.

Recruitment activity and sentiment accelerated by mid-year, reversing the tentative pace seen at the start of 2025. PERE data captures how improving transaction volumes lifted bonus pools and base pay for professionals who had endured leaner incentives amid tighter capital calls. Asset managers regained leverage to expand teams as dry powder levels and pricing clarity encouraged sellers back to market.

Staffing costs now reflect a sector regaining pricing power rather than cutting payroll to survive. Serene Hamzawi frames the shift as recovery mode, with offers aligning more closely with risk and execution demands. Compensation growth signals stabilized underwriting standards and fewer fire-sale mandates crowding out normal business.