USF SOREP Real Estate Competition
Overview
3rd Annual USF/SOREP Real Estate Case Competition
Showcase Your Expertise. Shape the Future.
The USF and SOREP Real Estate Competition provides 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
Choose Your Path. For the first time, participants will select one of four distinct properties to analyze. Teams must undertake a detailed investment analysis of their chosen asset, crafting a strategy that demonstrates financial acumen and creativity.
-
Develop Highest and Best Use: Determine the optimal use for your chosen property and craft an innovative solution that maximizes commercial viability.
-
Comprehensive Research: Dive into market trends, financial data, and zoning regulations relevant to the specific asset.
-
Strategic Financial Modeling: Develop robust financial projections for multiple property uses.
-
Innovative Planning: Formulate actionable strategies to maximize the property鈥檚 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.
- Mentor & Resource Engagement: Teams will be provided with industry mentors to guide their preparation. A winning analysis relies on actively collaborating with these mentors and utilizing provided resources to validate assumptions and refine strategies.
Cash Rewards
The top three teams will win cash prizes:
- 1st Place: $3,000
- 2nd Place: $2,000
- 3rd Place: $1,000
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 色色研究所, the University of Tampa, the University of Miami, or the University of Central Florida.
Make An Impact
Sponsored by, the USF Nault Center for Entrepreneurship, , , the USF Kate Tiedemann School of Accounting and Finance, and the , 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.
馃搮 Competition Date: Friday, April 10th, 2026
馃晲 Time: Networking lunch at 11:00am with competition starting at 12:00pm.
馃帀 Post-Event Reception: 4 鈥 5:30 p.m.
Location: USF Research Park. 3814 Spectrum Blvd, Tampa FL 33612
All applications must be submitted by February 22nd, 2026.