How to Calculate Property ROI
What is Property ROI?
Property ROI combines capital appreciation and net rental income to give a realistic total return on a buy-to-let investment over the holding period.
Formula
Annual ROI = (Annual net income + Property appreciation) / Total investment × 100%; Total return includes both yield and capital growth
- NI
- Annual net rental income (Currency)
- Appreciation
- Annual property value increase (Currency)
- Investment
- Total capital invested (down payment, costs) (Currency)
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1Total return = Appreciation + Net rental − costs
- 2ROI % = Total return / Purchase price × 100
- 3Annual ROI = ROI / Holding years
- 4Net rent = Gross − mortgage − expenses − voids
Worked Examples
Input
Buy £250k, sells £310k after 5yr, £7k/yr net rent
Result
Return = £95k; ROI = 38%; Annual = 7.6%
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I include mortgage principal paydown?
Yes. Every mortgage payment has principal component. That's equity building (return on investment). Separate from interest (cost of leverage). Include principal paydown in cash flow ROI.
Is appreciation guaranteed?
No. Historical average 3–5%, but varies by year and location. Don't bank on it. Calculate "yield on cost" from rental income alone; appreciation is bonus.
How do leverage and ROI relate?
Leverage amplifies ROI. 20% down = 5x leverage. A 5% property appreciation = 25% ROI on your cash. But leverage also amplifies losses—be careful.
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