The Westman Centre for Real Estate Studies works collaboratively with industry leaders and faculty from business and beyond to advance thought leadership for the real estate industry.
Alexander Whalley, PropTech Fellow
Professor Whalley's research interests are in urban economics, labour economics, innovation and productivity. His work has been published in the Journal of Political Economy, Review of Economics and Statistics, American Economic Journal - Economic Policy, and the Journal of Public Economics, among other outlets. Professor Whalley teaches courses in economics and real estate.
Future of Real Estate series
This year, the Westman Centre launched a new engagement series, Future of Real Estate, where academia and industry converge to engage in meaningful discussions relevant to both communities. Our first edition assessed the lingering impacts of working from home on the future of real estate. The prevalence of remote work exploded at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the nation continues moving toward a “return to normal,” the discussion centred around what we have learned about working from home and how trends continue to influence the real estate industry.
The event showcased the extensive research and data collected through the work-from-home and return-to-office movements that have impacted real estate since the start of the pandemic. Following this keynote presentation on work-from-home data by the Westman Centre’s Proptech Research Fellow Dr. Alex Whalley, leaders from various real estate industry sectors shared their perspectives and what they expect to see in the future.
Dr. Whalley's presentation explored the impact of changing work locations on tenant dynamics, asset management and markets.
Key research insights
Panelists consensus
Panelists agreed that, regardless of the future of remote work, there is a strong demand for greater autonomy and flexibility in work schedules.
- Goodbrand, P. Holloway, T. (2019 Oct. 16). Spruceland Properties Inc.: Social Enterprise through Real Estate Development (Case Nr.9B19M100). London, ON, Canada, Ivey Publishing.
- Goodbrand P, Lalli S, Brazell C. (2018 Oct. 15). Keystone Excavating Limited: Preserving a Legacy (Case Nr. 9B18M158). London, ON, Canada, Ivey Publishing.
- Goodbrand, P., Gondek, J., Brazell, C. (2018, May 8). Knightsbridge Custom Homebuilders Ltd.: Commitment to Core Values (Case Nr. 9B18M083). London, ON, Canada. Ivey Publishing.
- Goodbrand P, Ambrose D, Gondek J. (2018 Mar. 14). City of Calgary: Financing Infrastructure. (Case Nr. 9B18M041). London, ON, Canada, Ivey Publishing.
Urban Issues and Real Estate
- Post-Secondary on the Prairies - Planning Implications of the Emergence of the City Centre Satellite Campus
- Unauthorized secondary Suites and Renters: A Life Course Perspective
- Relatives or Rentals? Secondary Suites through a Multigenerational Family Lens
- On the Role and Future of Calgary's Community Associations
Housing Affordability Collaborative Research Program
Without open, trusted and transparent collaboration between industry and academia, our economy will not be able to meet its potential. It is on us as business leaders to stay vested and committed to continuous learning.
Dr. Sandip Lalli
Former President and CEO, Calgary Chamber of Commerce