Introduction to real estate development and finance / Richard M. Levy

Includes bibliographical references and index.

1. Introduction to real estate development and finance -- 2. An introduction to financial analysis -- 3. Model building and real estate development -- 4. An introduction to financial modeling -- 5. Market analysis -- 6. The planning process -- 7. Real estate and the law -- 8. Design and construction -- 9. Project management.

This book provides readers with a basic understanding of the principles that underlie real estate development. A brief historical overview and an introduction to basic principles are followed by examples from practice. Case studies focus on how cities change and respond to the economic, technological, social, and political forces that shape urban development in North America. It is important to have a framework for understanding the risks and rewards in real estate investing. In measuring return, consideration must be given to both investment appreciation and the cash flow generated over the life of a project. In addition, metrics are presented that can be useful in assessing the financial feasibility of a real estate development proposal. This book also provides an overview of the forces of supply and demand that gauge the potential market for a new project. In determining the size of “residual demand”, estimates for population growth, family formation, and new development are important.