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The Global Insight

How do I calculate the value of a commercial property?

Author

Sarah Garza

Updated on March 09, 2026

First, take the property’s net annual rental income and divide it by your estimate of the building value, based on sales of similar ones in the local area. This will give you your ‘capitalisation rate’ – or the rate of return. Then, take your net operating income and divide it by that figure.

What is a good return on commercial property?

For commercial property investors, yields are typically much higher than residential property. Yields from commercial property can be anywhere from 5% to 10%. Meanwhile, residential property is known for yields between about 1% and 3%. The main reason for the difference is found in the lease agreement.

How do you calculate capital gains on commercial property?

To calculate the capital gain on the property, subtract the cost basis from the net proceeds. If it’s a negative number, you have a loss. But if it’s a positive number, you have a gain.

How do you calculate the value of a building?

The valuation of building or property is found by multiplying the net income by year’s purchase. The valuation, in this case, can be too high in comparison with the actual cost of construction.

Which valuation approach is most common for commercial real estate?

income approach
The income approach is the most frequently used appraisal technique when it comes to valuing a commercial real estate asset. The approach is based on how much income a property is expected to generate in the future.

Who is the best person to sell commercial property with?

Whether you are looking to sell your property or are beginning your search for commercial property for sale at auction, it is recommended that you contact a property investment sales specialist who should have a thorough understanding of capital markets and commercial properties.

Is it profitable to invest in commercial property?

Investment in leisure property can be profitable, but as with retail property there is an increasing risk of tenant default. More and more public houses are appearing under the hammer at commercial property auctions, both leasehold and freehold properties.

What are the types of commercial property auctions?

Commercial Property Auctions Property such as office buildings, industrial units, hotels, retail premises, public houses, and garages are becoming a primary sector of the commercial property auction market with sales under the hammer occurring more and more frequently.

What to consider when buying a commercial property?

One of the most important considerations when deciding on whether to buy a retail premises or shop for sale at a commercial property auction, is the net operating profit, which must take into account all ongoing running expenses such as staff costs, utilities and telephone charges tax and the cost of buying stock.