Rental Property ROI Calculator
Analyze cash flow, cap rate, and cash-on-cash return for your real estate investment.
Understanding Rental Property ROI
Investing in real estate is one of the most reliable ways to build wealth, but not every property is a good deal. To ensure profitability, investors rely on specific metrics like Cash on Cash Return (ROI) and Cash Flow. This calculator helps you analyze a potential rental property to determine if it meets your investment criteria.
Why Cash Flow Matters
Cash flow is the net income from a real estate investment after mortgage payments and operating expenses have been made. Positive cash flow ensures the property pays for itself and provides passive income.
- Gross Income: Total rent collected plus any other income (laundry, parking).
- Vacancy Loss: The estimated percentage of time the property sits empty.
- Operating Expenses: Property taxes, insurance, maintenance, property management fees, and HOA dues.
What is Cash on Cash Return?
While standard ROI looks at total return, Cash on Cash Return measures the annual pre-tax cash flow relative to the total amount of cash invested (down payment + closing costs + rehab costs). It is the primary metric for investors using leverage (mortgages).
Formula: (Annual Cash Flow / Total Cash Invested) x 100
How to Use This Calculator
Enter the purchase price, your financing terms, and expected rental income. Be realistic about expenses; a common mistake is underestimating maintenance and vacancy costs. A "good" Cash on Cash return varies by market, but many investors aim for 8-12%.