Corporate real estate risk management and assessment

This paper analyses the inherent risks associated with corporate real estate (CRE). First, the author looks at corporate risk in general and at the context in which CRE decisions are made. Next, the types of risk generally inherent in CRE usage are examined, beginning with development risks and then grouping other risks into three categories: financial, physical and regulatory CRE risks. Possible risk management strategies are offered, to reduce the risks associated with CRE usage: due diligence, avoidance, insurance, hedging and diversification. Lastly, conclusions and recommendations for accounting for risk in corporate real estate management (CREM) are provided. The discussion of the risks inherent in CRE usage offers a starting point for future and more detailed discussions of the risk in CREM and provides a new perspective on the management of CRE assets.