Elon Alumnus and Faculty Publish Research on Commercial Real Estate Valuation

In a groundbreaking study, Associate Professor Margarita Kaprielyan of Elon’s Business School and alumnus Angelo Boone ’20 have explored the transformative impact of using CoStar in real estate finance education. The study, published in the Journal of Real Estate Practice and Education, underscores the power of experiential learning in preparing students for careers in commercial real estate.

The research introduces a structured, semester-long project designed to provide students with real-world experience in property investment analysis. This hands-on approach allows students to work with authentic commercial real estate data, moving beyond hypothetical scenarios to gain practical, immersive experience.

Key Findings:

  • Hands-on Learning: Students engage directly with real commercial real estate data, enhancing their practical understanding.
  • Industry-Relevant Tools: Proficiency in CoStar and Excel gives students a competitive edge in the job market.
  • Valuable Feedback: Structured feedback at multiple stages significantly improves student understanding of real estate finance, with 95% of students reporting enhanced comprehension.

CoStar is a game-changer for real estate professionals,” Boone remarked. “The platform centralizes market insights, property data, and industry trends, making it an essential tool for investment analysis. Learning it in the classroom was incredibly beneficial because it gave me a strong foundation before entering the workforce.”

Looking forward, Kaprielyan and Boone envision expanding the project to incorporate advanced topics such as investment strategies and renovation cost analysis. “This research demonstrates how structured, feedback-driven projects prepare students for real-world challenges,” Kaprielyan explained. “By providing them with direct exposure to industry tools and strategies, we ensure they graduate ready to make smart investment decisions.”

Boone, currently at Blue Heron Asset Management, specializes in commercial real estate investment and remains an active mentor to Elon students. He provides guidance on industry trends, career opportunities, and essential skills for success.

Kaprielyan, who joined Elon University in Fall 2017, previously taught at Florida Atlantic University while pursuing her PhD in Finance. She currently teaches Real Estate Finance and Financial Modeling at Elon.

For more on this study, visit the original article on Elon University’s website.

More Articles

Getting licensed or staying ahead in your career can be a journey—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Grab your favorite coffee or tea, take a moment to relax, and browse through our articles. Whether you’re just starting out or renewing your expertise, we’ve got tips, insights, and advice to keep you moving forward. Here’s to your success—one sip and one step at a time!

Technological Advancements Reshaping Real Estate Towards 2025

In a rapidly evolving world, technology is poised to redefine the real estate landscape by 2025. Embracing these innovations will be crucial for industry stakeholders to remain competitive and meet the evolving expectations of modern consumers.

By |June 25, 2025|Categories: Article, Real Estate, Technology|Tags: , |0 Comments

The Journey and Significance of Becoming a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)

The journey to becoming a CFP is challenging but rewarding, offering professionals the opportunity to make a significant impact on their clients' financial well-being.

Discovering the Top Online Real Estate Courses in New York for 2025

In an era where digital learning is reshaping education, aspiring real estate agents in New York have a wealth of options at their fingertips. HousingWire's recent article highlights the top programs that cater to diverse learning styles and schedules, ensuring success in the state's rigorous licensing exam.

By |June 25, 2025|Categories: Article, Education, Real Estate|Tags: , |0 Comments

The Rise of Online Learning: Forbes’ Top 10 Online Colleges for 2025

In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, online learning has steadily gained traction since its inception in the 1990s, emerging as a flexible and accessible option for students worldwide.

By |June 24, 2025|Categories: Article, Education, Online Learning|Tags: , |0 Comments

Launch Your Real Estate Career in Alaska with The CE Shop’s Pre-Licensing Course

"The real estate market in Alaska is gaining momentum, making it an opportune time to embark on a career in real estate."

Selecting the Most Effective Tax Software for 2025

As tax season approaches, taxpayers are faced with the daunting task of selecting the most effective software to handle their financial filings. With a myriad of options available, Forbes Advisor steps in to provide a comprehensive guide for choosing the best tax software of 2025.

By |June 24, 2025|Categories: Article, Finance, Technology|Tags: , |0 Comments