Alumni Spotlight: Kevin Lee

Why did you choose to study the Real Estate Economics and Investment Analysis MSc at the Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction? 

I chose the Bartlett because I wanted to study real estate in a more data-driven and transparent market. Before coming to the UK, I worked in China in real estate private equity, where policy changes created a lot of uncertainty. I realised I needed to build stronger skills in market analysis and investment to prepare for a global career.  

UCL’s Real Estate Economics and Investment Analysis MSc is different to other master’s degrees, combining economics, finance, and real estate. The Bartlett also has an international reputation and strong links with industry, which gave me confidence that the course would help me move into the UK and European markets. 

Which aspects of this real estate master’s degree did you enjoy the most? 

I enjoyed the combination of theory and practical application on this master’s degree. The econometrics and valuation modules were very useful, because they taught me how to use data and models to understand market trends. I also liked the group projects, where we worked together on case studies and presentations. It was a good way to learn from classmates with different backgrounds and to see how people approach problems in different ways. I really valued the discussions with professors, who encouraged us to think critically about both the UK and international real estate markets. 

What makes you most proud to be a graduate from the Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction? 

The Bartlett is ranked #1 in the world for the built environment. Being part of this community means I am connected with a global network of professionals and academics. The course gave me strong skills in real estate economics and investment, which I now use in my career. It also showed me the importance of sustainability and data-driven thinking, values that are becoming more and more important in the industry. 

What were some of the highlights for you, studying this course? 

I found the modules involving financial modelling with Excel and R most interesting, despite being challenging form in the beginning, because I had no previous experience with R programming. Working in groups and discussing it with my classmates was very helpful. We analysed market data, built financial models, and presented our findings, which felt very close to real professional work.  

I also enjoyed the guest lectures, where industry speakers shared their experience in the UK and international real estate markets. These sessions helped me to connect what we learned in class with what is happening in the industry. 

In what way did studying Real Estate in London enrich your studies? 

Studying in London gave me direct access to one of the most important real estate markets in the world. I could see how theories we learned in class applied to real projects and developments in the city. London is also very international, so I met classmates and professionals from many different backgrounds. This made discussions more diverse and gave me a wider view of how real estate works across different countries. 

What did you do after graduating and what you are doing now? 

After graduating, I joined Savills in London as a Hotel Analyst. My work focused on valuation and consultancy for hotels, where I analysed operational cash flows, built financial models, and prepared client reports for banks and owners. I also contributed to housing research projects through data analysis, which gave me another angle to apply the skills I learned. I continue to stay engaged in the real estate sector while also keeping a global outlook, following market trends in both Europe and Asia. 

How did the Real Estate Economics and Investment Analysis MSc prepare you for working in this industry? 

Studying this master’s course gave me strong technical skills in financial modelling, valuation, and data analysis, which I use directly in my work. It also trained me to think critically about market fundamentals, so I can assess both short-term operations and long-term trends. Another benefit was the international perspective of the course, which helped me feel more confident working in London while keeping a global outlook.  

What tips would you give to someone considering the Real Estate Economics and Investment Analysis MSc? 

This master’s course is intensive but very rewarding. Be ready to spend time on quantitative modules like econometrics and financial modelling, because they will give you strong skills for your career. Don’t worry if you are new to programming or data analysis—the group projects and discussions with classmates will really help.  

What advice would you give to anyone who wants to forge a career in the real estate sector? 

I would advise you to build a balance between technical skills and industry knowledge. Learn financial modelling and data analysis well, because they are essential part of valuation and investment roles. At the same time, try to understand how the real estate market works in practice by following industry news and talking with professionals. 

Networking is very important - connect with alumni, attend events, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Finally, be open to new areas like sustainability, technology, and RWA, as these are becoming more important for the future of real estate. 

What are your future career ambitions? 

Looking ahead, I want to build a career that combines professional practice with research and data analysis. I aim to continue developing expertise in real estate valuation and investment, while also exploring areas like sustainability, technology, and RWA, which I believe will play a big role in the future of the industry. In the longer term, I hope to contribute to the sector not only as a practitioner but also by sharing insights and supporting others through mentoring or teaching. 

The Real Estate Economics and Investment Analysis MSc course is delivered by the Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction. Ranked #1 in the UK for Construction. Guardian University Guide (2026), the school is a world-class centre of learning and research in the economics and management of projects, in construction and beyond.