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Operating Margin Calculator

Operating margin = NOI ÷ gross potential rent. It tells you what share of rent actually becomes cash flow after operating expenses. Different asset classes have different natural margins — luxury multifamily runs 58-65%, class B suburban 50-55%, class C workforce 42-48%. This calculator computes it and benchmarks.

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Operating margin

57.61%

NOI

$161,300

Asset class benchmark

53.0%

Margin vs benchmark

4.6%

Effective gross income

$263,200

Total operating expenses

$101,900

How the math works

$280K gross rent − 6% vacancy = $263K EGI. Minus $102K opex = $161K NOI. Margin = 57.5% — above the 53% class B benchmark by 4.5 points. Strong.

Margins above benchmark can indicate either great ops or under-reported expenses (deferred maintenance). Margins below can indicate weak ops or high tax/insurance unique to the submarket. Dig before drawing conclusions.

How to Use

  1. Enter gross potential rent and itemized operating expenses.
  2. See NOI, operating margin, and comparison to your asset class benchmark.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as operating expense?

Property tax, insurance, management fee, repairs & maintenance, utilities (if landlord-paid), marketing, professional fees, HOA, groundskeeping. NOT operating: mortgage interest, depreciation, capital improvements, owner salary if non-services.

Is 50% rule still a good benchmark?

Only for quick first-pass screening. 'Operating expenses = 50% of rent' is aggressive for class A (often 40-45%) and conservative for class C (often 55-60%). Use it to flag suspicious listings; do real math for underwriting.

Should capex be deducted?

From NOI, no — capex is below the line. For cash flow, yes — reserve for roof, HVAC, appliance replacement. Typical capex reserve: $200-$400/unit/year for class B, $400-$600 for class C. Separate line from operating expenses.

How do I benchmark my margin?

Compare to IREM/NAA data for your asset class and market. National averages: luxury class A 58-63%, class B suburban 50-55%, class C 40-48%. Your submarket may vary — check local operator groups or broker reports.

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