Queen's University COMM 309: Real Estate Management

-Half-Year Course · 3.0 Units

Course Overview

COMM 309 is a clear, practical introduction to income-producing commercial real estate: office, retail, multifamily, and industrial. Taught by Michael Trendota, the course breaks down how real estate markets work, how properties are valued, and how financing structures shape investment decisions.

You’ll learn the economic, legal, and financial fundamentals behind the buildings we live, shop, and work in. Lectures, in-class cases, and industry guests make the material surprisingly approachable, even if you’ve never touched real estate before.

What You’ll Learn

• Market Fundamentals: How supply, demand, cycles, and regulation influence commercial real estate.

• Valuation Techniques: Income, sales comparison, and cost approaches—core analyst toolkit.

• Zoning & Land Use: How planning laws shape development potential.

• Financing & Mortgages: Debt, equity, leverage, IRR, NPV, mortgage math, and investment decisions.

• Industry Trends: Affordability, sustainability, tech changes, and U.S.–Canada differences.

  
  

It’s a strong mix of analytical learning and real-world context.

Course Vibe

COMM 309 is structured, steady, and surprisingly engaging. Trendota is approachable and explains complex concepts clearly. Class time is active—you’ll work in random groups on mini-cases that deepen understanding.

Important: Attendance isn’t graded, but half the examinable content is delivered verbally. If you skip class, you’ll be lost.

The environment feels collaborative rather than competitive, with frequent discussions and two high-quality guest speakers near the end of term.

Grading Breakdown

• In-Class Assignments (x6): 30% — Short group cases done during class.

• Modelling Assignment: 20% — An Excel-based property valuation and analysis.

• Final Exam: 50% — Comprehensive, concept-heavy, and fair.

  
  

Workload & Commitment

A moderate, consistent workload. Weekly prep is manageable, group work happens in class, and the main lift is the modelling assignment and final exam review. If you attend, take notes, and practice the math, you’ll be fine.

Professor Insight

Trendota is steady, supportive, and great at making technical material digestible. He fosters a respectful, inclusive classroom and encourages students to come to office hours—no judgment, no ego.

Who Should Take This Course?

Ideal for students interested in:

• Real estate investing, development, or asset management

• Consulting or finance roles involving markets, modelling, or valuation

• Understanding how mortgages, zoning, and property economics actually work

If you want a course that combines practical financial skills with real-world industry insight, COMM 309 is a strong choice—and one you’ll actually use after graduation.