In this episode, we introduce single sums and the concept of single-period discounting and growing, the most basic building blocks of time value of money. We explore how to compare a cash flow today with a cash flow in the future and determine when those values are equivalent. Using simple examples, we explain how expected return and risk influence decision-making, showing how investors determine their “indifference point” between present and future cash. We also walk through how to move between present value and future value using basic formulas, highlighting how discounting helps investors evaluate what a future payment is worth today. This episode lays the groundwork for understanding more complex valuation techniques by focusing on the intuition and math behind single-period cash flow analysis. This episode was developed and produced by Nicole Jordan and Elizabeth Schrim. Content was generated using Wondercraft AI.

© 2026 CRE Explained Podcast Team.
Based on Commercial Real Estate Analysis for Investment, Finance, and Development (4th Edition) by David M. Geltner, Norman G. Miller, Alex van de Minne, Piet Eichholtz, Thies Lindenthal, and Lily Shen.
Developed through Clemson University Creative Inquiry (CI) 4980, under the supervision of Dr. Lily Shen.
Reference Material: Commercial Real Estate Resources | CREBook.net 

This episode includes AI-generated content.