Justin Benefield

Justin Benefield is a Professor and Thomas Lowder Endowed Chair in Real Estate within the Department of Finance at Auburn University, where he joined the faculty in 2012. His research has been published in leading journals including the Journal of Real Estate Economics and Finance, Journal of Real Estate Research, and Journal of Housing Research.

Education

• PhD in Finance, University of Alabama, 2006
• MA in Finance, University of Alabama, 2002
• BS in Finance, University of Alabama, 2000
• BS in Healthcare Management, University of Alabama, 1999

Benefield specializes in real estate brokerage, sustainable real estate, and real estate investment trusts (REITs), with significant contributions to understanding property valuation, market dynamics, and transaction outcomes. His work bridges academic rigor and practical industry applications in residential and commercial real estate sectors.

Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2024-2014) reveals a strong focus on distressed property sales, co-listing strategies, time-on-market dynamics, and green certification impacts. Key trends include innovative methodologies for addressing endogeneity in real estate research, behavioral analysis of agent-owned properties, and empirical examinations of REIT diversification strategies across economic cycles.

Professional Recognition

Benefield has received multiple teaching and research awards though specific award names are not detailed in source materials. His editorial role as current editor of the Journal of Housing Research for the American Real Estate Society demonstrates significant peer recognition.

Academic Leadership

He actively teaches undergraduate and graduate finance and real estate courses while serving in prominent roles within professional organizations including the American Real Estate Society (as Journal of Housing Research editor), American Real Estate and Urban Economics Association, and Academy of Economics and Finance. His prior teaching appointments include the University of Alabama and College of Charleston.