Real Estate and Urban Planning

COURSE OBJECTIVE
After taking this course students:
- know the basic forces that determine the value of land;
- know the determinants of the different types of land use;
- know the principles of Dutch land use planning and housing policy;
- can explain the importance and limitations of spatial planning;
- know the essentials of real estate valuation;
- understand the main factors determining affordability of housing in cities;
- understand the determinants of real estate development at specific locations.

COURSE CONTENT
A large part of the national capital stock consists of real estate. Most of it is located in cities. Within cities there is a concentration in a
small number of centers and subcenters. The built environment is the result of past and current investments in real estate and in
transportation and other infrastructure. The stock of buildings is extremely durable and once the structure is in place, it will often
remain there for decades or even centuries. Investment decisions with respect to real estate therefore have a strong and lasting impact on
landscapes. This course is in introduction to the economic analysis of the determining factors of the built environment. The basic principles
underlying the value of land and its use at various locations will be discussed. The need for spatial planning and its limitations will be
discussed. The role of affordable housing is highlighted. The course considers real estate in developed as well as developing countries.

TEACHING METHODS
Lectures, tutorials

TYPE OF ASSESSMENT
Written exam and assignments

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Basic knowledge of (micro-)economics