EstatePass
Real Estate Math

Capitalization Rate

The capitalization rate (cap rate) is the ratio of a property's net operating income to its sale price, expressed as a percentage. It is used to estimate value and compare profitability of investment properties. Cap Rate = NOI / Value.

Understanding Capitalization Rate

The cap rate formula can be rearranged: Value = NOI / Cap Rate, or NOI = Value x Cap Rate. A higher cap rate indicates higher return but typically implies greater risk. A lower cap rate indicates lower return but suggests more stability. Cap rates are derived from comparable sales of similar income-producing properties.

Real-World Example

An office building generates $80,000 in annual NOI and sold for $1,000,000. Cap rate = $80,000 / $1,000,000 = 8%. If a similar building generates $95,000 in NOI and the market cap rate is 8%, the value = $95,000 / 0.08 = $1,187,500.

Visual Study Guide
Download and share these infographics to reinforce your understanding of Capitalization Rate.
Exam Tips

Memorize the IRV formula: I (Income/NOI) = R (Rate/Cap Rate) x V (Value). You can solve for any variable. Remember the inverse relationship: as the cap rate goes down, value goes up. Do not confuse cap rate with interest rate or return on equity.

Related Terms

Net Operating IncomeGross Rent MultiplierIncome Approach

Related Concepts

The capitalization rate (Cap Rate) is the rate of return on a real estate investment based on its expected income.

In real estate, property value can be estimated by dividing the Net Operating Income (NOI) by the Capitalization Rate (Cap Rate).

Converting a percentage to a decimal involves dividing the percentage value by 100.

Monthly interest is the portion of the total annual interest that is paid or accrued each month.

Annual interest is the total amount of interest charged on a loan or investment over a year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Study This in Your State

Capitalization Rate may have state-specific rules. Choose your state to study Real Estate Math with localized content:

Master This Concept

Practice with real exam questions and track your progress.

Get Started Free