The Capitalization Rate, or Cap Rate, is a financial metric used in real estate investment to estimate the potential return on a property investment. It is calculated by dividing the property's net operating income (NOI) by the current market value or sale price of the property. The formula is:
Cap Rate = NOI / Market Value (or Sale Price)
The Cap Rate is expressed as a percentage and represents the expected rate of return on a property investment if the property were fully leased and all operating expenses were paid from the net operating income. A higher Cap Rate indicates a higher expected rate of return, and a lower Cap Rate indicates a lower expected rate of return. The Cap Rate is often used to compare different real estate investments and to determine the value of a property for investment purposes.
It's important to note that the Cap Rate does not take into account any financing or debt on the property, and it is based on historical data and current market conditions. As such, it should be used as a rough estimate of investment potential and not as a guarantee of future returns.