Property managers range from brokers and salespersons managing their own rental houses to officers of multinational corporations responsible for millions of square feet of office space. The primary function of a property manager at any level is to maximize the profitability of the property being managed for the owners. Commercial real estate agents serve their clients and customers by arranging to purchase, sell or lease these types of properties. Commercial real estate is usually any income producing property such as office buildings, apartment complexes, shopping centers, or industrial parks. Farm and ranch brokers and managers specialize in rural properties and often have formal agricultural training.
Land developers buy or otherwise control raw land and turn it into productive real estate.
Appraisers help establish the value of real estate relative to general economic and local market conditions. A majority of real estate appraisers work estimating the value of houses and other residential structures. Other appraisal professionals specialize in commercial buildings and land. Escrow agents are neutral third parties certified by the state to prepare transactions for closing. Most transactions in Washington are closed by certified escrow agents.