Multifamily Underwriting 101
Dallon Schultz • June 15, 2023
Underwriting multifamily properties involves evaluating the potential financial performance of a multifamily property to determine whether it is a good investment.

This process involves analyzing various financial and non-financial factors, including the property's market, location, physical condition, income, expenses, and debt. Here are some steps you can follow to underwrite a multifamily property:
- Gather information about the property: This includes the property's location, physical characteristics, unit mix, rental rates, and any recent capital improvements.
- Analyze the market: Look at factors such as supply and demand for rental properties, population demographics, and the local economy.
- Review the property's financial statements: This includes the income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement. Look for trends in revenue, expenses, and occupancy.
- Calculate key financial ratios: These include the capitalization rate, debt service coverage ratio, and loan-to-value ratio. These ratios will help you understand the property's financial performance and risk profile.
- Assess the property's physical condition: Consider the age and condition of the building and its systems, as well as any necessary repairs or upgrades.
Based on your analysis, decide whether the property is a good investment and whether to proceed with the acquisition.
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The 2008 financial crisis marked one of the most challenging periods in recent economic history, with widespread repercussions felt across various industries. Real estate, in particular, faced significant headwinds as the housing bubble burst, leading to a cascade of foreclosures and a severe credit crunch. Amidst this turmoil, the multifamily housing sector demonstrated remarkable resilience, weathering the storm better than many other real estate segments.
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