As shown above, there are many variables that can impact the cap rates for any asset at any point in time. It is necessary to compare the cap rate of the asset with similar assets that were on the market at that time. Also, it is important to evaluate the capital costs and other alternatives. Investors must also be honest about their risk tolerance and risk appetite. There are plenty of publicly accessible data to help determine if a cap rate for an asset is equal to the risk return of similar assets. After conducting proper diligence and accounting of variations in the property relative a comp set, it all comes down to an individual’s personal preferences and goals to determine what "good" cap rates mean.
Deferred Maintenance is a measure of the asset's overall quality. The asset that has high levels of deferred care may not be able to rent out its asset class at market rents. A Class B multifamily asset with a 1980s age may be eligible for market rents. However the roof needs to be replaced at a cost up to $500k. Another multifamily asset, a Class B-class, is in the exact same market. However, it has had a complete renovation over the last 6 months. Now, it is starting to get market rents. Although the first asset has a strong 12-month operating history, there is a substantial capital outlay ahead. This is expensive and could have an impact on tenants and increase vacant properties. While the second asset appears less desirable, the Net Operating income for the last 12 month is low. However, the future capital outlay will not be significant. A potential buyer will view an asset's cap rate differently if there is a significant deferred line item. A buyer may benefit from comparing both assets for a 6% caprate to decide which one is preferable.
The most important factor that influences a property’s caprate is its location. The old saying in real estate is that location is everything. This sentiment highlights the importance of location on an asset's value. A market like San Francisco2 offers more jobs, business, transportation, and overall economic strength than a Baton Rouge market. A market with greater demand means higher property prices. In San Francisco, for example, the cap rate is lower and property value much higher than in Baton Rouge.
Lease Strength: How strong a lease is will determine its strength. This includes the terms of it, including the length, rental rates, lease concessions and rent increases or escalates. Also, default provisions and penalties for breach. The obligations of the tenants (such as paying for property taxes and insurance) and their financial strength. Google is the only tenant in an office building. This means that it has a 5-year term, 3% annual rent escalations, and a guarantee from its parent company. It has a much different risk profile to an office with 50 tenants. Google's corporate financial strength likely means that it would have been able to negotiate a lower rate per foot, lower rent hikes, and better terms than many other smaller tenants. Google's financial strength could mean that the building with smaller and less financially secure tenants may have a lower risk profile than its lease. Strong leases for any asset type – multifamily or retail, industrial, office or commercial - will impact the property's perception of risk and lead to a lower rate of return, which could translate into higher property valuation.
It is important to have a solid grasp of financial concepts in order to make intelligent residential real-estate investments. It's not uncommon to feel overwhelmed by the many financial metrics, formulas and advice for evaluating potential properties. There is no universal formula you can use to determine if an investment is right. By learning how to use valuation tools correctly, you will be able to determine which methods work best for each prospect.
Capitalization rate, also known as the "cap rate", is one of many indicators that a property's investment ability. Cap Rate is a measure of your potential annual rate for return, or the loss or gain you might see from your investment.
Available Capital: Although not an influence on the cap rates of properties, it is important to consider what a "good" caprate is when buying a property. The stabilized cap rates of commercial realty should be avoided by buyers. This includes mortgages and debt. When using debt to buy or renovate property, it might be sensible to use capital that costs more per unit than the cap rates yield for a limited time. This will allow you to refinance into less expensive debt or sell the asset. If the asset's stable cap rate is less than the current interest rates, buyers should borrow less and borrow more. The debt will dilute property returns.