Capitalization rates (cap rates) are the most common metric for commercial real estate valuation. Understanding what drives cap rates is essential to accurate pricing.
Cap Rate Components
- Risk-free rate (typically 10Y Treasury)
- Risk premium for real estate vs. bonds
- Property-specific risk factors
- Growth expectations
Limitations
Cap rates have limitations for properties with non-stabilized income, significant capital needs, or unusual lease structures. DCF analysis provides more nuanced valuation.