Disruption and AI in Real Estate Markets

(2 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

Real estate—one of the world’s largest and historically slowest-changing industries—is now being rapidly transformed by technology, venture capital, and artificial intelligence. In this course, we use a case-study approach to examine the Proptech companies, fintech platforms, and venture investors reshaping how real estate is built, financed, managed, and experienced. Each week we will analyze a specific firm, technology, or investment strategy—from emerging startups like EliseAI and ICON to leading Proptech venture capital platforms such as MetaProp and Pi Labs—through the lens of disruption, venture investment, and long-term industry impact. Particular attention will be given to the rapidly expanding role of artificial intelligence in real estate, including use cases in property management, valuation, leasing, construction, and fraud detection. In the second half of the semester, you will conduct a Disruption Deep Dive on a Proptech or technology of your choosing that aligns with your specific career interests. This self- directed project culminates in a comprehensive essay, a class presentation, and a one-on-one interview with the professor. The goal is not simply to study disruption, but to develop the analytical skills needed to identify, evaluate, and lead the next wave of innovation in the built environment.