Reversionary Value: Calculation, Methods, and Considerations

In commercial real estate, determining the value of an income-generating property is a crucial aspect of investment analysis and lending. The reversionary value, also known as the exit value, plays a significant role in estimating the property’s worth at a specified future date, typically at the end of a predetermined holding period. This article explores the concept of reversionary value, its calculation methods, and the considerations involved in its estimation.

Key Facts

  1. Determine the total reversion: The total reversion refers to the expected future value of the property. It can be based on factors such as anticipated market conditions, rental income, and potential appreciation.
  2. Determine the reversion factor: The reversion factor is a multiplier that is applied to the total reversion to estimate the reversionary value. It takes into account factors such as inflation, market conditions, and other relevant variables.
  3. Calculate the reversion value: Multiply the total reversion by the reversion factor to calculate the reversionary value.

Example:
Let’s say the total reversion is $100,000 and the reversion factor is 0.67. To calculate the reversion value, you would multiply $100,000 by 0.67, resulting in a reversionary value of $67,000.

Calculating Reversionary Value

The reversionary value is calculated using a formula that incorporates the total reversion and the reversion factor:

Reversion Value = Total Reversion × Reversion Factor

Determining the Total Reversion

The total reversion represents the expected future value of the property at the end of the holding period. It is influenced by various factors, including anticipated market conditions, rental income, potential appreciation, and any anticipated capital improvements.

Determining the Reversion Factor

The reversion factor is a multiplier applied to the total reversion to estimate the reversionary value. It takes into account factors such as inflation, market conditions, discount rates, and the remaining economic life of the property.

Calculating the Reversion Value

By multiplying the total reversion by the reversion factor, the reversionary value is obtained. This value represents the estimated worth of the property at the end of the holding period, considering the anticipated market conditions and other relevant factors.

Methods for Estimating Reversionary Value

There are several methods commonly used to estimate the reversionary value:

Capitalization Rate Method

This method involves dividing the net operating income (NOI) by the capitalization rate to determine the property’s value. The capitalization rate is derived from market data and reflects the investor’s required rate of return.

Comparable Sales Method

This method compares the subject property to similar properties that have recently sold in the same market. The reversionary value is estimated by adjusting the sales prices of the comparable properties to reflect the specific characteristics of the subject property.

Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) Method

The DCF method projects the property’s future cash flows over a specified holding period and then discounts these cash flows back to the present value using an appropriate discount rate. The reversionary value is determined as the present value of the cash flows expected after the holding period.

Considerations in Estimating Reversionary Value

Estimating the reversionary value involves several considerations:

Holding Period

The length of the holding period significantly impacts the reversionary value. A longer holding period implies greater uncertainty and risk, potentially leading to a lower reversionary value.

Market Conditions

Anticipated market conditions, including economic trends, supply and demand dynamics, and interest rates, play a crucial role in determining the reversionary value.

Property Condition and Maintenance

The physical condition of the property, including its age, quality of construction, and maintenance history, influences its future value.

Lease Terms and Rental Income

The terms of existing leases, including rental rates, lease lengths, and vacancy rates, affect the property’s future cash flows and, consequently, its reversionary value.

Capital Improvements and Renovations

Planned capital improvements or renovations can enhance the property’s value and increase its reversionary value.

Conclusion

The reversionary value is a critical component in determining the overall value of an income-producing property. By carefully considering the factors that influence the reversionary value and employing appropriate estimation methods, investors and lenders can make informed decisions regarding the acquisition, disposition, and financing of commercial real estate assets.

Sources

  1. California State Board of Equalization: https://www.boe.ca.gov/info/iav/lesson18.htm
  2. Calculator Academy: https://calculator.academy/reversion-value-calculator/
  3. The Rockport Group: https://www.therockportgroup.com/resources/insights/what-is-the-right-modeling-approach-for-the-reversion-or-exit-year-in-a-dcf-do-you-know-what-your-model-is-doing

FAQs

What is reversionary value?

  • Answer: Reversionary value is the estimated worth of a property at the end of a specified holding period, typically used in commercial real estate investment analysis.

How is reversionary value calculated?

  • Answer: Reversionary value is calculated by multiplying the total reversion by the reversion factor.

What is total reversion?

  • Answer: Total reversion refers to the expected future value of the property at the end of the holding period, considering factors like market conditions, rental income, and potential appreciation.

What is the reversion factor?

  • Answer: The reversion factor is a multiplier applied to the total reversion to estimate the reversionary value. It incorporates factors such as inflation, market conditions, and the remaining economic life of the property.

What methods are used to estimate reversionary value?

  • Answer: Common methods include the capitalization rate method, comparable sales method, and discounted cash flow (DCF) method.

What factors influence the reversionary value?

  • Answer: Factors that affect reversionary value include the holding period, anticipated market conditions, property condition, lease terms, and planned capital improvements.

Why is reversionary value important?

  • Answer: Reversionary value plays a crucial role in determining the overall value of an income-producing property, aiding investors and lenders in making informed decisions about acquisition, disposition, and financing.

How can I accurately estimate the reversionary value of a property?

  • Answer: Accurately estimating reversionary value requires careful consideration of the factors that influence it, employing appropriate estimation methods, and utilizing relevant market data and insights.