Alternative Investments: Investing in Land & Real Estate

Overview

Alternative Investments: Investing in Land & Real Estate introduces learners to the fundamentals of investing in farmland and real estate as alternative assets. You'll explore agricultural economics, land valuation, ownership structures, and risk management strategies. The course also covers real estate investment types, liquidity considerations, and how these assets can fit into diversified portfolios. Through case studies and expert insights, you'll gain practical knowledge to evaluate whether land and real estate align with your financial goals. This course is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs. To learn more about online programs from the College of ACES and explore ways to apply your Coursera work toward a degree program at the University of Illinois, visit: https://aces.illinois.edu/online.

Syllabus

Orientation & Module 1 | Understanding Agricultural Economics: Balance Sheets and Land Values

In the course orientation, you'll get to know the course, your classmates, and our learning environment, and gain the technical skills needed. Then, you’ll get oriented with the course and begin exploring the financial foundations of agricultural investing. You’ll learn how to read balance sheets and income statements, understand the capital structure of farming, and compare how producers and investors view farmland. We’ll also look at what drives land values and investment returns over time.

Module 2 | Ownership and Investment: Navigating Farmland Transfers and Financing

In this module, we’ll explore who owns farmland and why. You’ll learn about different types of investors, how land is transferred, and the tax implications of those transfers. We’ll also introduce key financing institutions and discuss how to manage risks in farmland investing. Through expert panels and real-world examples, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the farmland investment landscape.

Module 3 | Introducing Real Estate

This module introduces real estate as an investment class. You’ll learn about different investment structures, such as REITs, and explore various real estate asset classes. We’ll also discuss how real estate investments vary in liquidity and how they correlate with other asset types. Interviews and case studies will help you see how real estate fits into a broader investment strategy.

Module 4 | Building Consumer Portfolios with Land & Real Estate & Conclusion

In this final module, we’ll explore how to build investment portfolios that include land and real estate. We will revisit key concepts such as risk and return, consider whether these assets are suitable for every investor, and explore professional pathways for further learning in alternative investing. After this module, you will be ready to complete the final assessment for the course and earn your Coursera certificate!