Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy

Program

Applied Mathematics

Supervisor

Matt Davison

Abstract

Our aim in this thesis is to investigate the usefulness of real options analysis, taking case studies of problems in real estate. In the realm of real estate, we consider the following three problems. First, we consider the valuation and usefulness of presale contracts of condominiums, which can be viewed as similar to call options on condominiums. Secondly, we consider the valuation of farm land from the perspective of land developers, who may think of farm land as being similar to call options on subdivision lots. Third, we consider the valuation of opportunities to install solar panels on properties, in which properties may be considered call options on electricity generators. Through consultation with industry professionals, we created models with the aim of being as realistic as possible without losing analytical tractability. In all three problems, we assess the potential value added through the usage of real options modeling techniques over more traditional techniques, using realistic parameter regimes. We utilize a set of sophisticated mathematical and numerical tools to mathematically model problems. We find that for some problems, real options models only add minimal value to more traditional capital budgeting techniques such as the Net Present Value model. In other problems, we find that real options models lead to significantly different sets of conclusions from those predicted by more traditional techniques.

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