A tool employed in real estate investment analysis, a spreadsheet designed to estimate the potential financial returns associated with owning and renting out a property. These spreadsheets typically incorporate inputs such as purchase price, mortgage details, rental income, operating expenses (property taxes, insurance, maintenance), and vacancy rates to project cash flow, return on investment (ROI), and other key financial metrics.
Such tools provide a structured framework for evaluating the profitability and viability of a real estate investment. They enable investors to compare different properties, assess the impact of varying market conditions or financing options, and make data-driven decisions. Historically, simpler versions were manually constructed, but advancements in spreadsheet software have led to more sophisticated and automated calculations, enhancing accessibility and accuracy in investment analysis.