As executive recruiters in the home building industry, we know compensation is essential when considering a new job opportunity. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best-paying jobs in homebuilding. We want to help you navigate the job market and make informed decisions about your career.
But we also want to remind you that compensation isn’t everything. We believe that a job should offer more than just a big paycheck. Factors such as company culture, work-life balance, and career growth opportunities should also be considered.
The homebuilding industry is vital to the American economy, creating jobs and providing much-needed housing for families nationwide. In fact, the industry generates over $1 trillion in economic activity each year and employs over 2.5 million people.
However, the industry also faces some significant challenges. The rising cost of materials, particularly lumber, has made it more expensive to build homes, while a shortage of skilled workers has made it difficult for companies to keep up with demand. These challenges, along with others, have created a complex and competitive job market for those interested in pursuing a career in residential construction.
What are the best-paying jobs in homebuilding?
The following table showcases the highest-paying jobs in residential construction.
| Position | Base Salary Range | Bonus Range |
|---|---|---|
| CEO/Owner | $200k – $500k+ | $100k – $1m+ |
| C-Level Roles | $150k – $500k+ | $100k – $1.5m+ |
| Division President | $175k – $300k+ | $100k – $500k+ |
| VP of Finance | $150k – $250k+ | $100k – $250k+ |
| VP of Land | $150k – $250k+ | $75k – $250k+ |
| VP of Construction | $150k – $225k+ | $75k – $225k+ |
| VP of Sales | $140k – $225k+ | $75k – $225k+ |
*Note: Some positions may have equity grants, restricted stock, stock options, or other long-term monetary benefits. (Source: Glassdoor)
As a leading executive search firm servicing many of the top 100 homebuilders in the industry, MatchBuilt Executive Search has worked with thousands of job candidates and hundreds of companies. We know the ins and outs of the industry and have seen firsthand the best-paying jobs in homebuilding.
In this post, we’ll share our insights on the highest-paying jobs in the industry and what it takes to succeed in these roles. So whether you’re a seasoned executive or just starting out in your career, we hope you’ll find this information valuable.
Highest Paying Jobs In the Homebuilding Industry
Owner / CEO
As the leader of a homebuilding company, an Owner / CEO is responsible for driving the company’s success and ensuring its long-term growth. The position requires a unique blend of strategic thinking, industry knowledge, and leadership skills. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the role of an Owner / CEO in a home-building company, the average salary for this position, and the skills required to succeed.
Average Salary:
According to Glassdoor, in 2023, the average base salary range for CEO/Owner homebuilding and residential construction positions is $200,000 to $500,000+. The bonus range varies from $100,000 to $1,000,000+. It’s important to note that some CEO/Owners may also have equity grants, restricted stock, stock options, or other long-term monetary benefits in addition to base and bonus compensation.
Skills Required:
To become a successful homebuilding CEO/owner, one must possess excellent leadership and management skills, a deep understanding of the real estate industry, and an ability to adapt to changing market conditions. According to Forbes, the most successful CEOs are innovative thinkers, effective communicators, and strategic decision-makers with a clear vision for the company’s future. They also need to have a keen eye for detail and be able to keep track of various moving parts.
Successful homebuilding CEOs need to have a deep understanding of the industry and the market, as well as strong leadership and communication skills. They must be able to build and motivate a team while also keeping a close eye on the financials and ensuring the company’s long-term success.
-According to Mark Hodges, CEO of Pinnacle Home Builders
C-Level Roles
C-Level roles are some of the most important in a residential construction company, and these are the top executives responsible for driving the company’s success and growth. In this section, we’ll define the various C-Level roles in homebuilding companies, discuss their responsibilities and salaries, and emphasize the importance of these positions.
Average Salary:
According to Glassdoor, the average base salary range for C-Level roles in residential construction is $150,000 to $500,000+ in 2023. The bonus range varies from $100,000 to $1,500,000+. It’s important to note that some C-Level executives may have equity grants, restricted stock, stock options, or other long-term monetary benefits.
Skills Required:
The C-Level roles in homebuilding companies require strong leadership, communication, and management skills. Building relationships with investors, customers, and stakeholders is also essential.
According to a report by Harvard Business Review, the most effective C-level executives also possess emotional intelligence and strategic thinking skills. They should be able to work collaboratively with other executives and team members to set the company’s strategic direction and achieve its goals.
Builders are finding that they must attract and retain a talented and diverse workforce to achieve their strategic goals, and that means they must offer competitive compensation packages, a clear path for advancement, and a dynamic and challenging work environment.
-NAHB
Division President
The Division President is a crucial position within a homebuilding company. They manage and grow the business by overseeing operations within a specific geographic region. A Division President manages this role’s sales, marketing, construction, finance, and land acquisition. This position requires exceptional leadership skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to make sound business decisions.
Average Salary:
According to Glassdoor, in 2023, the average base salary range for Division President homebuilding positions is $175,000 to $300,000+. The bonus range varies from $100,000 to $500,000+. It’s important to note that some Division Presidents may have equity grants, restricted stock, stock options, or other long-term monetary benefits.
Skills Required:
To succeed as a Division President in homebuilding, one must possess excellent leadership and communication skills and deep knowledge of the local real estate market.
They should have a solid ability to manage teams and projects effectively and be able to drive sales growth and profitability. According to Indeed’s job search website, Division Presidents should also have an entrepreneurial mindset, innovate, stay ahead of the competition, and possess strong financial acumen.
Division presidents are the driving force behind a homebuilding company’s growth and success. They are responsible for ensuring that each region meets its sales and construction goals while staying on budget. A great Division President can take a company to the next level and set the stage for long-term success.”
– Brad Hunter, Managing Director at RCLCO Real Estate Advisors
Vice President of Finance
The Vice President of Finance plays a vital role in a home-building company, responsible for managing the financial aspects of the business. This position is critical in strategic decision-making and ensures the company’s financial health.
Average Salary:
The average base salary range for Vice President of Finance positions in residential construction is $150,000 to $250,000+, according to Glassdoor in 2023. The bonus range varies from $100,000 to $250,000+. It’s important to note that some Vice Presidents of Finance may have equity grants, restricted stock, stock options, or other long-term monetary benefits.
Skills Required:
The role of VP of Finance in homebuilding requires excellent analytical, financial, and problem-solving skills. The ideal candidate should be able to work effectively with cross-functional teams and manage budgets, forecasts, and economic models.
They should also possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills and a deep understanding of accounting and finance principles. According to an article in Accounting Today, the most successful finance executives also possess leadership and management skills and the ability to drive change and innovation in their organizations.
The Vice President of Finance is a critical role in any homebuilding company. This person is responsible for ensuring the financial health of the organization and making strategic decisions that will drive the company’s growth and success. A great Vice President of Finance is a strategic thinker, a strong leader, and an expert in their field.”
– Brad Hunter, Managing Director at RCLCO Real Estate Advisors
Vice President of Land
A Vice President of Land plays an essential role in a homebuilding company by leading the acquisition of land for development. They work closely with other executives and local government officials to identify suitable locations for development, secure financing, and manage contracts.
Average Salary:
According to Glassdoor, in 2023, the average base salary range for Vice President of Land positions in homebuilding and residential construction is $150,000 to $250,000+. The bonus range varies from $75,000 to $250,000+. It’s important to note that some Vice Presidents of Land may have equity grants, restricted stock, stock options, or other long-term monetary benefits.
Skills Required:
To succeed as a VP of Land in residential construction, one should have excellent land acquisition and development skills and deep knowledge of zoning and land use regulations. The ideal candidate should be able to work effectively with government agencies, community groups, and other stakeholders and possess strong negotiation and interpersonal skills.
They should also have a deep understanding of market trends and be able to identify profitable development opportunities. According to an article in Multifamily Executive, the most successful VP of Lands also have strong analytical skills, the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines, and strong financial acumen.
The Vice President of Land sets the foundation for everything that follows. Without land to build on, there can be no homebuilding.
– Randy Noel, the former Chairman of the National Association of Home Builders
Vice President of Construction
A Vice President of Construction oversees all aspects of the construction process, from design and permitting to project management and quality control. They work closely with other executives, including the Vice President of Land and the Vice President of Sales, to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
Average Salary:
The average base salary range for Vice President of Construction positions in residential construction is $150,000 to $225,000+, according to Glassdoor in 2023. The bonus range varies from $75,000 to $225,000+. It’s important to note that some Vice Presidents of Construction may have equity grants, restricted stock, stock options, or other long-term monetary benefits.
Skills Required:
The VP of Construction in homebuilding should have excellent project management and team leadership skills, as well as a deep understanding of construction methods, materials, and safety regulations.
They should be able to manage budgets, schedules, and subcontractors effectively and drive productivity and quality across multiple projects. According to the job search website Indeed, the most successful VP of Construction also possesses excellent communication and problem-solving skills and the ability to drive innovation and process improvement in their organizations.
The Vice President of Construction is the person who ensures that the vision of the architect, the desires of the customer, and the constraints of the market all come together in a beautiful, safe, and functional home.
Vice President of Sales
The Vice President of Sales manages a residential construction company’s sales and marketing team. They work closely with other executives to set sales targets, develop marketing strategies, and ensure that homes are priced appropriately for the market.
Average Salary:
According to Glassdoor, in 2023, the average base salary range for Vice President of Sales positions in homebuilding and residential construction is $140,000 to $225,000+. The bonus range varies from $75,000 to $225,000+. It’s important to note that some Vice Presidents of Sales may have equity grants, restricted stock, stock options, or other long-term monetary benefits.
Skills Required:
To succeed as a VP of Sales in homebuilding, one should have strong sales leadership skills and deep knowledge of the local real estate market and consumer behavior. They should be able to manage and motivate sales teams, set sales targets, and monitor performance metrics.
The ideal candidate should also be able to work effectively with marketing and product development teams and possess strong communication and negotiation skills. According to a report by the National Association of Home Builders, the most successful VP of Sales also have strong analytical skills, the ability to identify emerging trends and consumer preferences, and the ability to develop and execute effective sales strategies.
The Vice President of Sales is the person who turns dreams into reality for our customers. They are the face of the company, and they must embody our values of honesty, integrity, and quality in everything they do.
Top Inquiries on High-Paying Homebuilding Careers
Looking for a high-paying homebuilding career? Here are answers to some of the most common questions about careers in homebuilding, including salaries, job duties, and required education and experience.
Most positions in homebuilding require a bachelor's degree in construction management, architecture, engineering, or a related field. Relevant experience in construction, sales, or finance is also beneficial.
Job openings in the home building industry are often listed on job sites or company websites. You can also try contacting a homebuilder directly and submitting your resume. Consider networking with industry professionals to gain insight into available opportunities.
Entry-level positions in homebuilding can include construction assistant, sales assistant, administrative assistant, or customer service representative. These positions allow you to gain experience and understand the home-building process.
To advance your homebuilding career, gaining experience and building a strong reputation in the industry is important. Consider taking on more challenging roles, completing additional education or certifications, and networking with industry professionals.
The homebuilding industry requires various skills, including project management, problem-solving, communication, and leadership. Strong customer service and sales skills are also valuable.
The homebuilding industry has remained strong and is projected to grow over the next few years. With a high demand for homes and an aging housing stock, there will continue to be opportunities for growth in this industry.
Salaries in the residential construction industry are competitive with other industries. Some of the industry's highest-paying roles can offer salaries similar to those in the finance or technology sectors.
Homebuilding companies often offer competitive benefits packages, including health insurance, 401k matching, and paid time off. Some companies may also offer stock options, profit sharing, or bonuses based on company performance.
Constructing a Successful Career: High-Paying Jobs in Homebuilding
The homebuilding industry is booming, and it’s no surprise that it offers some of the best-paying jobs out there. From CEO/Owner to C-level roles, Division Presidents, Vice Presidents of various divisions, and more, there are many opportunities for a rewarding and fulfilling career in this field. However, it’s important to remember that having the right skills and qualifications is crucial to success in these positions.
It’s also essential to keep in mind that compensation isn’t everything. Nevertheless, if you’re interested in working in the homebuilding industry, the best-paying jobs in the field are worth considering. We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into some of the most lucrative positions available. Please explore our site for more information about career development, common interview questions, resume building, or salary negotiation and growth.
