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In today’s episode, I’m speaking with Brad Hargreaves, editor of Thesis Driven, a top Substack publication covering innovation in the built world. He is also the co-founder of General Assembly and Common, a multifamily operating company focused on innovative housing typologies like co-living.

Brad lays out an eloquent case for the upcoming transformations in real estate driven by autonomous vehicles (AVs). We discuss the anticipated decline of gas stations and urban parking garages, the rise of exurban living as AVs make commutes less painful, and the potential redesigns of AV interiors for enhanced commuting experiences.

We also dive into the impact of elevated interest rates on real estate investment, the growing demand for industrial properties and data centers, and the importance of city regulations in accommodating AVs. Brad shares his insights on the broader implications of these trends and suggests investment strategies for the future.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Brad Hargreaves

(01:19) What is Thesis Driven? And the motivation behind it

(03:55) The current state of the real estate market in 2025

(06:50) Why now is the right time for real estate investors to pay attention to AVs

(09:30) The role of geography in real estate investors’ perception of AVs

(11:00) Where would autonomous vehicles have the most impact in real estate?

(13:17) What are the options for real estate investors in the era of AVs?

(15:15) Future assumptions about AVs and their potential impact on real estate

(18:03) Public space and safety concerns with AVs

(20:47) How AVs could change where people choose to live, and its role in suburbanization

(24:54) The cost of AVs and how it compares to traditional rideshare

(27:40) Current trends in real estate and commute

(29:42) How AVs could evolve ergonomically to favor long commutes

(31:30) How AVs could change the concept of weekend trips

(33:52) Some real estate investment opportunities in the era of AVs

(37:00) Surprising real estate outcomes that could arise from AV adoption

(40:00) Conclusion and final thoughts

Notes/Links:

* Link to Brad’s article and tweet mentioned at (6:54) – Autonomous Vehicles Are Finally Here. Now What? – Tweet

– Harry

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