๐Ÿ“˜ About This Calculator

This comprehensive calculator helps you determine whether investing in a rental property makes financial sense. By analyzing cash flow, return on investment, and long-term profitability, you can make informed decisions about real estate investments before committing your capital.

๐ŸŽฏ Key Metrics Explained

Cap Rate (Capitalization Rate)

Measures the property's return potential independent of financing. A higher cap rate (typically 5-10%) indicates better returns. Calculated as: Net Operating Income รท Property Price ร— 100.

Cash-on-Cash Return

Shows your first-year return on actual cash invested. Good rental properties typically achieve 8-12% annually. Calculated as: Annual Cash Flow รท Total Investment ร— 100.

DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio)

Measures ability to cover mortgage payments. Lenders require minimum 1.2 (property generates 20% more income than debt payments). Below 1.0 means negative cash flow.

Total ROI

Your complete return over the holding period, including cash flow, appreciation, and equity buildup. This shows the big picture of your investment performance.

๐Ÿ“Š How to Interpret Results

๐Ÿ’ก Tips for Accurate Analysis

๐Ÿ˜๏ธ Property Details

Down payment set to 20.0% of property price (editable)
How many years to analyze the investment
Realtor commissions and closing costs when selling

๐Ÿ’ฐ Monthly Costs

Typical: 1% of property value annually
Percentage of monthly rent
Percentage of year property is vacant
Annual capital expenditure reserve (roof, HVAC, appliances)

Additional Principal Payments

๐Ÿ“ˆ Revenue & Growth

๐Ÿ“Š Alternative Investments

Compare rental property returns against investing the same capital in other opportunities

Based on S&P 500 avg annual return 2016-2025 (source: Statmuse/Macrotrends)
Automatically matches Analysis Duration from Property tab

๐Ÿ’ก What This Compares

This analysis shows what would happen if you invested your initial capital (down payment + closing costs) in an alternative investment instead of the rental property. It helps answer: "Is real estate the best use of my $100k, or should I put it in the stock market?"

Investment Summary

Enter property details to see investment summary

Mortgage Amortization Schedule

Enter property details to see amortization schedule

Annual Cash Flow Analysis

Enter property details to see cash flow analysis

Alternative Investment Comparison

Enter property details to compare against alternative investments