What is a SWOT Analysis? 

Definition 

Swot analysis involves the collection and portrayal of information about internal and external factors which have, or may have, an impact on business.

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SWOT is a framework that allows managers to synthesize insights obtained from an internal analysis of the company’s strengths and weaknesses with those from an analysis of external opportunities and threats.

Understanding the Tool

SWOT is a tool used for situation (business or personal) analysis! SWOT is an acronym which stands for:

Strengths: factors that give an edge for the company over its competitors.

Weaknesses: factors that can be harmful if used against the firm by its competitors.

Opportunities: favorable situations which can bring a competitive advantage.

Threats: unfavorable situations which can negatively affect the business.

Internal Orgins

Helpful to achieving the objective 

Harmful to achieving the objective 

Opportunities 

External Orgins 

Using the SWOT Analysis in Real Estate 

Strengths: characteristics of the asset that give it an advantage over others.
Examples: Location, design, modern rental property, effective operational management, Energy efficient properties, Selecting quality tenants to maintain occupancy

Weaknesses: characteristics that place the asset at a disadvantage relative to others.
Examples: Age of structure, lobbies, mechanical equipment and lack of infrastructure/vacancies to support current leasing efforts

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Opportunities: elements that the project could exploit to its advantage.
Examples: Demand response strategies to reduce energy, reposition lobby and create amenities.

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Threats: elements in the environment that could cause trouble for the business or project.
Examples: Development of competitive newer buildings, market shifting for tenants and environmental or governmental issues.