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Lesson 8 of 15

Cap Rate Explained

The metric landlord investors use to compare rental properties - Capitalization Rate.

What is Cap Rate?

Cap Rate (Capitalization Rate) measures the annual return on an investment property based on income, without considering financing. It helps compare properties apples-to-apples.

The Cap Rate Formula

Cap Rate = (NOI ÷ Property Value) × 100

NOI = Net Operating Income (annual rent - annual expenses, NOT including mortgage)

Real Example

Annual Rent (12 × $1,650):$19,800
- Property Tax:-$3,500
- Insurance:-$1,200
- Maintenance:-$1,000
- Vacancy (5%):-$990
NOI:$13,110
Property Value:$165,000
CAP RATE:7.9%

What Cap Rates Mean

4-6%
Low Cap Rate

Premium areas, appreciation play, higher prices. Less cash flow.

7-9%
Sweet Spot

Good balance of cash flow and stability. Most SA landlord ZIPs.

10%+
High Cap Rate

Higher risk areas, more management needed. Better cash flow.

Why Closers Need to Know Cap Rate

  • Landlord buyers ask "What's the cap rate?" - know how to calculate it
  • Compare properties in your buyer list marketing
  • Higher cap rate deals are easier to assign to landlord buyers

Key Takeaway

Cap rate lets you compare deals without worrying about financing. In San Antonio, landlord buyers typically want 7%+ cap rates. Include cap rate in your deal presentations.