SOREP USF Real Estate Competition
Overview
Second annual sorep/usf real estate case competition
Showcase Your Expertise. Reshape Downtown Tampa.
The Society of Real Estate Professionals (SOREP) and the USF Real Estate Competition provide an incredible opportunity for USF students to demonstrate their expertise in investment analysis and contribute innovative ideas to the future of downtown Tampa.
The Challenge
Participants will undertake a detailed investment analysis of a commercial property located in downtown Tampa. This involves:
- Develop Highest and Best Use: Determine the best use for the property and craft an innovative solution that maximizes its commercial viability and showcases your strategic vision.
- Comprehensive Research: Dive into market trends, financial data, and zoning regulations.
- Strategic Financial Modeling: Develop robust financial projections for multiple property uses.
- Innovative Planning: Formulate actionable strategies to maximize the property’s potential.
- Visionary Development Proposals: Teams will pitch their unique vision for how the property should be developed, considering market needs, financial feasibility, and community impact.
Teams must craft their own analysis and conclusions by engaging with real estate professionals and presenting their findings to a panel of top real estate professionals for evaluation.
Components of a Winning Analysis
Success in the competition requires teams to perform rigorous, self-driven analyses, including:
- Market Assessment & Projections: Analyze and forecast potential rental income for each proposed use.
- Market Demand Analysis: Determine projected space absorption for each proposed use.
- Operating Expense Estimation: Calculate operating costs for each use and the overall project.
- Development Cost Analysis: Estimate site development and structural costs for each component.
- Valuation Projections: Conduct a market value assessment, discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis, and calculate projected IRR/NPV.
Cash Rewards
The top three teams will win cash prizes:
- 1st Place: $3,000
- 2nd Place: $2,000
- 3rd Place: $1,000
In addition to cash rewards, the top team’s development idea may be integrated into the redesign of the 1221 North Florida Ave property. This offers a unique opportunity for students to see their vision realized, with the potential for equity or collaboration in the redevelopment process.
Transform Urban Tampa
This year’s property is a 9,350-square-foot empty lot at 1221 North Florida Ave, recently rezoned for commercial use. Competing teams will explore its potential to drive downtown Tampa’s growth by pitching innovative visions for the property’s development. These ideas will reshape the urban landscape and contribute to the city’s evolving identity.
networking opportunities
Beyond the competition, participants have the chance to network with industry professionals, gain insights from keynote speakers, and connect with potential mentors. The USF Real Estate Competition is not just an event; it's a gateway for students to enter the dynamic world of real estate and forge connections that will last a lifetime.
The SOREP Annual Scholarship
The Society of Real Estate Professionals is pleased to offer an annual scholarship to eligible finalists and full-time undergraduate or graduate level students who are pursuing a career in real estate with the intent to relocate to Tampa Bay after graduation. The scholarship is currently available to students admitted to or attending the University of Florida, Florida State University, the University of South Florida, the University of Tampa, the University of Miami, or the University of Central Florida. Apply to the annual scholarship.
Make An Impact
Sponsored by, the USF Nault Center for Entrepreneurship, Valley Bank, The Society of Real Estate Professionals (SOREP), the USF Kate Tiedemann School of Accounting and Finance, and the USF Real Estate Society, the SOREP Real Estate Competition gives students the opportunity to make a positive impact to the Tampa Bay economy while gaining real world industry experience that will help you excel in your academic and professional career.
Competition Date: April 4th, 2025, 12:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Reception 5:00 p.m.- 7:00 p.m.
Location: USF Research Park. 3814 Spectrum Blvd, Tampa FL 33612
All entries must be submitted by February 14th, 2025; Finalists will be notified by February 19th, 2025
The SOREP/ USF Real Estate Competition was created in collaboration with the USF Nault Center for Entrepreneurship, USF Kate Tiedemann School of Accounting and Finance, Valley Bank, The Society of Real Estate Professionals (SOREP), and the USF Real Estate Society.
