ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides an introduction to topics that are important for the real estate investment industry. It also provides an overview of institutional similarities and differences of the real estate investment industry in different countries. The book discusses how important it is for real estate investors and researchers to understand the institutional background of real estate markets. It considers the relationship between real estate and banking, and reviews the various roles that banks play as part of the real estate lending process. The book also considers the regulation of banks, particularly with respect to capital, and how capital standards might or might not change the cost of lending. It also discusses the factors that influence the supply of new buildings, both commercial and private housing, much of which in developed countries is provided speculatively.
