According to industry estimates, while salaries for manufacturing and automobiles graduates from reputed schools can go up to Rs 6 lakh a year, real estate firms do not mind paying between Rs 12 and 15 lakh a year! Everyone in this business seems to be earning more. Vice-presidents in the companies earn Rs 50-60 lakh a year whereas senior managers in the automotive business earn between Rs 18 and 30 lakh a year. And to top it all, the sector offers a slew of incentives.

The Ma Foi Employment Trends Survey (METS), conducted by Ma Foi, one of India's largest HR consultancy firm, has predicted a 3 per cent increase in employment in 2008. The largest chunk of new jobs, according to the survey, would be generated by the Real Estate and hospitality sector, riding high with the tourism boom in the country.

Interestingly, even within the sector, there are surprises because it's not always the top firms that pay most. Mid-tier and not-so-established real estate developers established tend to offer higher salaries, as it is tougher for these companies to attract experienced professionals. "The main attraction for joining realty sector is the tempting incentives that are offered on striking a deal. Eventually, your incentives could outrun the regular salary!" says Sanjeev Kumar, HR officer with real estate company, Ramaprastha.