Real Estate Forum Podcast Episode 1 with Stijn Van Nieuwerburgh, Columbia Business School

Published on September 19, 2025

EP.01 - The Urban Doom Loop: How Remote Work Is Reshaping American Cities with Stijn Van Nieuwerburgh

Presented by the Paul Milstein Center for Real Estate at Columbia Business School, the Real Estate Forum podcast brings you insights into the evolving real estate landscape—from candid conversations with real estate thought leaders to cutting-edge research.

In this inaugural episode of the Real Estate Forum, host Raphael Sidelsky speaks with Professor Stijn Van Nieuwerburgh—Finance Division; Earle W. Kazis and Benjamin Schore Professor of Real Estate; and Faculty Co-Director of the Paul Milstein Center for Real Estate at Columbia Business School. The discussion centers around the profound shifts occurring in urban real estate, triggered by remote work trends and rising interest rates. Stijn details the "Urban Doom Loop," where declining office values weaken city finances and services, further pushing residents and businesses away. He shares insights from his groundbreaking research, highlighting cities like New York and San Francisco, and explores potential solutions, including converting outdated office buildings into residential spaces.

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The Real Estate Forum podcast is produced by The Podcast Consultant with special thanks to Executive Producer Maria Fera.