New Academic Program: Economics and Management with a Real Estate Appraisal Track

Sapir is launching, for the first time an expansion of its B.A. in Economics and Management with a Real Estate Appraisal Track. This is the first program of its kind in Israel’s southern region to offer specialization in this field. The Economics and Management Department at Sapir Academic College comprises approximately 35 faculty members engaged in teaching, research, and public, social, and business activities. The department's primary goal is to train economists and business managers who will lead public and private sector initiatives in the Israeli economy in the coming decades.

The Real Estate Appraisal Track is expected, subject to the approval of the Council of Real Estate Appraisers, to grant an exemption from 13 out of 14 certification exams required by the council, in addition to awarding a B.A. in Economics. This specialization provides an opportunity to acquire in-depth professional knowledge in real estate and land valuation, including a real estate appraiser’s license from the Ministry of Justice, allowing graduates to assess all types of real estate assets in Israel.

Graduates will enter the job market equipped with comprehensive expertise in property ownership, the Israeli legal system, statutory planning, engineering and surveying, taxation mechanisms, urban economics, and real estate financing. Real estate appraisers play a critical role in various sectors, including private development firms, government agencies, public institutions, local authorities, banks, and courts.
The program is headed by Mr. Nir Bodenstein, a real estate appraiser and valuation expert, who is a key figure in Israel’s real estate appraisal sector. Throughout his career, he has provided a wide range of professional services, including feasibility assessments, financial analyses, collateral evaluations, expert opinions, and representation in compensation and betterment levy proceedings.

During the Swords of Iron War, Bodenstein conducted numerous property evaluations for Israel’s Property Tax Compensation Fund, covering public buildings, military damages, agricultural assets, and infrastructure. In addition to his professional work, he previously served pro bono as Chairman of the Tel Aviv Round Table, an organization dedicated to empowering at-risk youth.

"A real estate appraiser is a central and exclusive authority in property valuation in Israel. As such, this profession significantly shapes the real estate market and drives economic development," says Bodenstein. "This field requires a unique blend of expertise, responsibility, and strict adherence to the highest ethical and professional standards. I am honored to bring this program to the Western Negev and to train the next generation of real estate appraisers - right here, right now."

Dr. Sharon Hadad, Head of the Department of Economics, welcomes Bodenstein’s appointment: "We are delighted to have Nir Bodenstein join our outstanding team at the Department of Economics. He is a top-tier professional, and we are confident that his expertise will greatly contribute to the success of our students in Israel’s job market."