Unlocking Housing Development: Zoning & Office Space Conversions With Jesse Saginor

Real Finds Podcast

In this episode of The Real Finds Podcast, host Gordon Lamphere sits down with Professor Jesse Saginor, an associate professor of real estate development at the University of Maryland, to dive deep into the complexities surrounding zoning and housing development. Together, they explore how zoning policies influence development costs, the hurdles of community opposition, and the growing potential for converting underutilized office spaces into residential units. Dr. Saginor shares his experiences in urban revitalization and affordable housing, emphasizing the importance of flexible zoning, government involvement, and the need for adaptive reuse in modern urban planning. Real estate professionals and aspiring developers alike will find invaluable takeaways on navigating the ever-changing real estate development landscape.

Tune in for expert insights on building relationships with municipalities, creative disruption in housing, and advice for navigating the future of zoning and community engagement in real estate. Whether you're an industry veteran or just starting out, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge to help you succeed in today’s market.

Book Recommendation:

Why Startups Fail: A New Roadmap for Entrepreneurial Success By Tom Eisenmann

Chapters:

00:00 - The Cost of Zoning and Housing Development

03:11 - The Evolution of Real Estate Interest

06:08 - Challenges in Affordable Housing

08:56 - The Parking Debate in Development

11:48 - Building Relationships with Municipalities

15:03 - Navigating Community Opposition

17:56 - Office to Residential Conversions

20:47 - The Role of Government in Housing Solutions

24:11 - Zoning Policies and Their Impact

27:10 - The Future of Zoning and Real Estate

29:50 - Engaging Communities in Development

33:10 - Advice for Aspiring Real Estate Professionals

36:03 - Recommended Reading for Real Estate Insights

38:54 - Connecting with Industry Leaders

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