If you are prepared to get started as a single-family rental home investor in Caldwell, one of the most meaningful terms you first need to know is After Repair Value (ARV). The after-repair value of a property refers to the value of a property that has been fixed up or renovated. More particularly, ARV refers to the estimated future value of the property, including all the repairs and improvements. To resolve your property’s ARV and use it accurately, you must first learn how to calculate it accurately. Keep reading to learn how to do so.
Start With a Market Analysis
A competitive market analysis is one of the most suitable methods to calculate your property’s ARV. By looking at comparable properties (comps) that have recently sold, you can get a satisfactory concept of your property’s new market value. Multiple investors start by searching the multiple listing service (MLS) for recently sold properties that are as similar to your new, improved rental house as possible. For example, you would want to find comps close to your property in age, size, location, construction method and style, and condition. In particular, look for at least three recently sold comps (i.e., sold within the last 90 days) that detail current upgrades or improvements.
Calculating ARV
Once you have discovered three or more decent comps, you can then calculate your property’s after-repair value (ARV). There are two classic methods:
- Find the average sales price of comparable properties. For example, if you found three good comps, add their sold prices together, divide by three, and then you would have the average price. This number is your property after-repair value (ARV), which should be used to estimate the likely sales price of your own single-family rental house after improvements and repairs.
- Find the average price per square foot of your comparable properties. Divide the total sales price by the average square footage of your comps. With an average price per square foot, you can then multiply that price by the number of square feet in your rental property. This procedure can be more accurate than the first option but demands a few additional steps.
Using Your ARV
Once you understand your property’s ARV, you can use it in several ways. First, it can help you to set a more proper rental rate. By comprehending how your newly renovated property compares to others in the neighborhood, you can maximize your rental home’s potential. Another way that investors often use after-repair value is when purchasing investment properties.
When buying a new Caldwell investment property, you may want to take 70% of the property’s after-repair value and subtract the costs of repairs and improvements. The consequent offer price can help you know where to begin bidding for a property. In some cases, investors may go as high as 80% ARV, significantly increasing the chance of an adequate offer. Of course, the higher the ARV you use to distinguish your offer price, the higher the risk for your profit margins afterward.
Computing an accurate after-repair value takes training and talent. While numerous investors learn to do so on their own, it can be helpful to rely on the expertise of a real estate professional or property management expert. Either one can help you uncover comparable properties and ensure that your calculations reflect the true nature of the property, its location, and its future potential as a rental house.
Have you recently completed renovations on your investment property? Contact Real Property Management Nampa and request a rental market analysis to ensure you stay competitive. Call us at 208-960-0660 to speak with a Caldwell property manager today.
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