Real Estate Development Introduction - Process & Principles

This course was created for those wanting to learn about real estate investment and development. Learn the framework of a development project through the five steps of a project lifecycle.

To be successful at anything in life, be it business or sports or relationships, you need to understand the frameworks of what you're trying to accomplish. This course does just that, laying out the framework for a real estate development project. 

This class will identify the fundamentals of real estate development and explore some of the key relationships of the many layered components. The class will strive to promote the critical analysis and constructive thinking that is the key to contributing positively to the built environment. Topics will include: market analysis; acquisition, pre-development; scheduling and budget; zoning and design; marketing and leasing; cash flow projections; financing; pro forma development; construction; valuation; and property stabilization. We will also explain each of the various return metrics that you should be familiar with.

In order to take this course you will need to have a basic-level familiarity with a spreadsheet software, such as Excel or Google Sheets. You will also need the mindset of an entrepreneur, which is the key to success in real estate development.

The course will look to achieve the following objectives:

• Improve the students’ understanding of the Real Estate Development process

• Be able to engage in meaningful dialogue in the Real Estate Development industry

The course will be divided into TEN sections, covering five major topics:

1. Real Estate Development Fundamentals

2. Underwriting & Acquisition

3. Architectural Design & Entitlements

4. Budgeting & Construction

5. Marketing & Stabilization

Upon completion of this course, you can expect to have a thorough understanding of the real estate development and investment framework, and be well prepared to begin discussions with investors, partners and lenders.