An accredited investor is an individual or entity that meets specific financial criteria set by securities regulators. Being accredited grants access to certain investment opportunities, often with higher minimum investment requirements, and participation in private placements and other alternative investments. This link will give you the SEC-defined requirements. You can also find answers to your questions on our FAQ page.

An acquisition fee is a charge or percentage of the property’s purchase price paid to the sponsor or general partner of a real estate investment for identifying and acquiring the property.

Active investing refers to an investment strategy involving frequent buying and selling of assets in an attempt to outperform the market. It requires ongoing monitoring and decision-making by the investor or fund manager.

An asset is a property, investment, or resource that has value and the potential to generate income or appreciation for its owner.

Asset conversion involves repositioning or converting a property from one use or asset class to another, often to maximize its value or better align with market demands.

Asset management involves overseeing and optimizing the performance of real estate assets to achieve investment objectives. It includes property management, financial analysis, and strategic decision-making to enhance asset value.

The asset management fee is the compensation paid to the asset manager for overseeing the operations and performance of a real estate investment.

A bridge loan is a short-term loan used to bridge the gap between the immediate financing needs of a property purchase or project and the availability of long-term financing.

Cap rate, short for capitalization rate, is a financial metric used to evaluate the potential return on a commercial real estate investment. It is calculated by dividing the property’s net operating income (NOI) by its current market value or acquisition cost and is used to compare investment opportunities across different properties and markets.

Capital refers to the financial resources, such as cash and other assets, used to invest in and operate real estate ventures.

A capital call is a request made by a real estate fund or syndication manager to its investors for either initial or additional capital contributions. A capital call happens at the time of initial commitment and contribution to the investment.

These calls can also occur when the fund or syndication needs additional funds to finance property acquisitions or cover unexpected expenses. Investors are obligated to fulfill their capital call commitments as outlined in the partnership agreement. Answers to frequently asked questions can be found here.

Capital expenditures are significant expenses for property improvements or replacements that are expected to provide lasting benefits.

The capitalization rate, or cap rate, is a measure used to evaluate the potential return on a real estate investment. It is calculated by dividing the property’s net operating income (NOI) by its current market value or acquisition cost.

Cash flow is the net income generated from a real estate investment after deducting operating expenses and debt service.

Cash-on-cash returns assess the annual return on a real estate investment relative to the cash invested. It is calculated by dividing the annual cash flow by the initial cash investment.

A close-ended fund is a type of investment in commercial real estate with a fixed number of shares issued during the initial offering period. Once the fund is launched and fully subscribed or at a predetermined date, new investors cannot enter the fund, and the fund manager cannot issue additional shares. Investors can only buy or sell shares on secondary markets, such as stock exchanges or private markets, where the shares are traded based on supply and demand. Close-ended funds have a specific investment horizon or maturity date, at which point the fund is liquidated, and the proceeds are distributed to investors.

In the context of commercial real estate, a close-ended fund might be launched with a specific investment strategy, such as acquiring a portfolio of commercial properties and holding them for a predetermined period. Once the fund’s investment objectives are met, the assets are sold, and the proceeds are distributed to the investors.

Both open-ended and close-ended funds offer investors opportunities to diversify their commercial real estate portfolios and access professional management, but they differ in their structure, liquidity, and investment horizons.

Closing, also known as settlement, is the final stage of a real estate transaction when the transfer of ownership is completed. It involves the signing of legal documents, payment of closing costs, and the transfer of funds, officially concluding the property purchase.

Closing costs encompass fees and expenses associated with finalizing a real estate transaction, including title insurance, appraisal fees, and legal charges.

Commitment is the total amount of capital that an investor agrees to contribute to a fund or syndication over a specified period. It represents the investor’s financial obligation to the investment.

Contribution refers to the capital invested by individual investors in a fund or syndication. It represents the financial commitment made by each investor to participate in the investment.

Cost segregation is a tax planning strategy that accelerates depreciation deductions by segregating assets into shorter recovery periods.

A debt investment involves lending money to a borrower, typically secured by a property, with the expectation of receiving interest payments.

Debt service refers to the periodic payments made on a loan, including both principal and interest.

The debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) measures a property’s ability to cover debt payments with its net operating income.

Demographics refer to the statistical data of a population, including age, income, education, and other relevant characteristics. Demographic data is crucial for real estate market analysis and investment decision-making.

Distribution refers to the periodic payment of profits or returns to investors in a fund or syndication. It can be in the form of cash dividends or additional units or shares.

Distributions are the profits or returns generated from an investment that are distributed to investors, typically on a regular basis.

Diversification is a risk management strategy that involves investing in a variety of assets to spread risk and reduce the impact of negative events on the overall portfolio.

Downside protection is a risk management strategy to minimize potential losses in an investment. Investors may implement various techniques, such as diversification and risk hedging, to safeguard against adverse market conditions.

Due diligence is the thorough investigation and analysis of a real estate investment to assess its risks and potential before finalizing the transaction.

Earnest money is a deposit made by the buyer to demonstrate their serious intent to purchase a property. It is held in escrow until the completion of the transaction.

Effective gross income is the total rental income generated by a property after subtracting vacancy losses.

An equity investment involves purchasing shares or ownership in a company or real estate asset. Equity investors have a stake in the success and profitability of the investment.

The equity multiple measures the total return on an equity investment by comparing the total distributions received to the initial investment.

Evergreen refers to a continuous investment structure, often in the form of a fund or syndication, that has no fixed maturity date and allows for ongoing investor participation and redemptions.

A 1031 exchange, also known as a like-kind exchange, allows real estate investors to defer capital gains taxes by reinvesting the proceeds from the sale of one property into another similar property.

The executive summary is a concise overview of the key points and highlights contained in the Private Placement Memorandum or investment offering. It provides potential investors with a quick snapshot of the opportunity, including the investment strategy, target returns, and the experience of the management team. The executive summary serves as an effective tool for quickly capturing investor interest.

The exit strategy outlines the plan for divesting an investment, whether through sale, refinance, or other means, to realize profits or mitigate losses.

A floating interest rate, also known as a variable rate, is an interest rate that changes over time based on market conditions.

A forecast in commercial real estate pertains to the estimation and prediction of future market conditions and performance of a property or investment. It involves analyzing various factors such as market trends, economic indicators, and property-specific data to make informed decisions about potential risks and returns. Accurate forecasts are crucial for investors and syndicators in strategizing and maximizing their investments.

In commercial real estate funds and syndications, the general partner (GP) is the driving force behind the investment. As the sponsor or initiator of the opportunity, the GP manages the venture, makes strategic decisions, and handles day-to-day operations. They bring expertise and capital to the table, while limited partners (LPs) invest passively, relying on the GP’s experience for potential returns without active involvement.

The GP plays a crucial role in the investment’s success, making collaboration with a reputable partner essential for achieving investment goals.

Gross potential income is the total rental income a property could generate if all units were fully occupied and rented at market rates.

Gross potential rent is the total rental income a property could generate if all units were occupied and rent was paid in full.

The gross rent multiplier is a ratio used to evaluate the potential profitability of an income-generating property. It is calculated by dividing the property’s sale price by its gross rental income.

Ground-up development involves constructing a new building or development on an undeveloped piece of land, starting from scratch.

A growth-focused investment strategy aims to maximize capital appreciation and long-term growth of an investment, such as through property development and value-added initiatives.

A hard money loan is a short-term financing option commonly used in real estate investing. Unlike traditional bank loans, hard money loans come from private investors or lending companies. These loans are secured by the property itself, making creditworthiness less critical. They are favored by real estate investors for quick access to funds and time-sensitive opportunities. However, they often have higher interest rates and fees due to the increased risk taken by the lender.

The holding period refers to the length of time an investor plans to hold a real estate asset before selling or divesting it.

An income-focused investment strategy prioritizes generating steady cash flow and regular income, often through stable, income-producing assets like commercial properties.

The interest rate is the percentage charged by a lender for borrowing money, typically applied to loans or credit lines.

An interest-only payment is a loan payment that covers only the interest accrued during a specific period, with no reduction in the loan’s principal.

The internal rate of return (IRR) measures the profitability of an investment by calculating the rate at which the investment’s net present value equals zero.

A joint venture is a partnership between two or more parties to collaborate on a specific real estate project or investment.

A key principal is an individual who plays a significant role in a real estate investment, typically with decision-making authority and financial involvement.

A letter of intent (LOI) is a non-binding document outlining the preliminary terms of a potential real estate transaction.

A limited partner is an investor in a partnership, such as a real estate syndication, who has limited liability and passive involvement in the investment.

The loan-to-cost ratio (LTC) compares the amount of a loan to the total cost of a real estate development or project.

The loan-to-value ratio (LTV) compares the amount of a loan to the appraised value or purchase price of a property.

The London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) is the benchmark interest rate at which banks offer unsecured loans to other banks in the London wholesale money market.

Market rent refers to the prevailing rental rates for similar properties in a specific market or location.

A metropolitan statistical area (MSA) is a geographical region with a high population density and economic ties between its core city and surrounding communities.

Net operating income (NOI) is the total income generated from a property after subtracting operating expenses but before deducting mortgage payments or income taxes.

A non-recourse loan is a loan secured by a property that does not hold the borrower personally liable in case of default.

An offering memorandum is a comprehensive document that provides details about an investment opportunity, including its terms, risks, and financial projections.

Operating expenses are the costs associated with managing and maintaining a property, including property management fees, utilities, and repairs.

The operator in commercial real estate is the party responsible for the day-to-day management and execution of the property’s business plan. They handle property operations, tenant relations, rent collection, and maintenance. A strong and experienced operator is crucial for maximizing the investment’s potential and ensuring its success.

Passive investing involves investing in assets or funds without active involvement in the day-to-day management or decision-making.

A permanent agency loan is a long-term, fixed-rate loan for commercial real estate projects, typically provided by government-sponsored entities.

A portfolio is a collection of investments, such as real estate properties and financial assets, held by an individual or entity to achieve diversification and manage risk.

The preferred return, also known as a “hurdle rate,” is the minimum rate of return that limited partners in a real estate investment must receive before the general partner can share in profits.

A prepayment penalty is a fee charged to a borrower for paying off a loan before its maturity date.

The price per unit is the cost or value of an individual unit within a multi-unit property, such as an apartment complex.

A Private Placement Memorandum is a confidential legal document provided to potential investors in a real estate fund or syndication. It outlines essential information about the investment opportunity, such as the investment strategy, risks, financial projections, and terms of the offering. The PPM helps investors make informed decisions and ensures compliance with securities regulations.

A profit-sharing plan is a retirement savings vehicle that allows employers to share a portion of their company’s profits with eligible employees. It fosters employee loyalty and incentivizes productivity. Employers contribute a predetermined percentage of profits to employees’ retirement accounts, often based on salary or years of service. The contributions are tax-deferred until retirement, providing potential tax advantages for employees. Profit-sharing plans can attract and retain talented professionals and create strong retirement packages for employers and employees alike.

A pro-forma is a financial projection or forecast used to estimate the potential future performance of a real estate investment.

Projections in commercial real estate refer to the anticipated financial outcomes and performance of a property or investment over a specific period. These projections are based on comprehensive analyses, including historical data, market trends, economic factors, and assumptions about future conditions. Investors and syndicators rely on these projections to assess potential risks and rewards associated with a particular real estate opportunity.

The property management fee is the cost charged by a property management company for overseeing the daily operations of a real estate asset.

A property manager is a professional or company hired to manage and oversee the daily operations of a commercial real estate property on behalf of the owner or investor. Their responsibilities include tenant management, property maintenance, rent collection, and financial reporting.

The Ratio Utility Billing System (RUBS) is a method used to allocate utility expenses among tenants based on their usage or occupancy.

Recapitalization is the restructuring of a property’s capital stack, often involving refinancing or raising additional equity or debt to optimize the investment’s financial structure.

Recourse refers to the lender’s ability to seek repayment from a borrower’s personal assets in the event of default.

Redemption refers to the process by which investors in an open-ended fund can sell or redeem their shares or units. It provides liquidity and an exit option for investors who wish to exit the investment before its maturity.

Refinancing involves replacing an existing loan with a new one, often with better terms or lower interest rates.

A rent premium is an additional amount charged above the standard rental rate, typically for premium amenities or features.

A rent roll is a detailed list of rental units in a property, including occupancy status, rental rates, and lease terms.

Risk-adjusted return is a measure used to assess an investment’s performance relative to its level of risk. It considers both the return generated and the volatility or riskiness of the investment.

A Roth 401(k) is a retirement plan that combines features of a traditional 401(k) and a Roth IRA. It allows for after-tax contributions, and qualified distributions are tax-free during retirement.

A Roth IRA is a retirement account that allows investors to contribute after-tax income. Qualified distributions from a Roth IRA are tax-free, making it an attractive option for tax-free growth and income during retirement.

The sales comparison approach is a real estate appraisal method that estimates a property’s value based on recent sales of similar properties in the area.

SOFR stands for Secured Overnight Financing Rate. It is a benchmark interest rate used in financial markets, serving as an alternative to LIBOR. SOFR is calculated based on actual transactions in the U.S. Treasury repurchase market, reflecting the cost of borrowing cash overnight against Treasury securities as collateral. As a more reliable and transparent reference rate, SOFR is replacing LIBOR to provide a robust benchmark for various financial products, such as derivatives, mortgages, and corporate loans. The transition from LIBOR to SOFR is ongoing in many financial markets to ensure accurate and representative interest rate benchmarks.

A Self-Directed IRA allows investors to have more control over their retirement funds and invest in a broader range of assets, including real estate, private equity, and more, beyond traditional stocks and bonds.

A SEP IRA (Simplified Employee Pension Individual Retirement Account) is a retirement plan for self-employed individuals and small business owners. It allows for tax-deductible contributions and tax-deferred growth.

A Solo 401(k), also known as an Individual 401(k), is a retirement plan designed for self-employed individuals and small business owners without employees. It offers tax advantages and the ability to make higher contribution limits compared to traditional IRAs.

A sophisticated investor is an individual or entity with substantial knowledge and experience in financial markets and investments.

In the context of commercial real estate investments, a sponsor refers to the individual or entity responsible for sourcing, managing, and executing the investment opportunity. The sponsor acts as the driving force behind the investment, conducting due diligence, structuring the deal, and overseeing the property’s operations. Their expertise and track record are essential factors to consider when evaluating potential investments.

Stabilization in commercial real estate refers to the phase in a property’s lifecycle when it achieves a consistent level of occupancy, cash flow, and operational efficiency. During this stage, the property’s income generation is steady, and it has reached its full potential for return on investment. Investors and syndicators aim to reach stabilization as it signifies reduced risks and increased profitability.

A submarket is a smaller, distinct segment within a larger real estate market. It may have unique characteristics or characteristics that differentiate it from the broader market.

A subscription agreement is a legal contract between an investor and a real estate syndication, outlining the terms of the investment.

Subscription documents, also known as subscription agreements, are legal contracts signed by investors to express their intention to invest in a real estate fund or syndication. These documents formalize the investor’s commitment and typically include details such as the investment amount, payment terms, and representations and warranties. Subscription documents play a crucial role in finalizing the investor’s participation in the offering.

A syndication is the pooling of funds from multiple investors to collectively invest in a real estate project or venture.

T-12 refers to the trailing 12 months of financial data, often used for evaluating the performance of a property over the past year.

The target return is the desired rate of return that an investment aims to achieve over a specific time frame. It serves as a benchmark for evaluating the investment’s performance.

A tenant is an individual or business entity that rents and occupies a property owned by another party, known as the landlord.

Third-party fund administration refers to the outsourcing of administrative tasks and responsibilities, such as accounting, reporting, and compliance, to a specialized firm or service provider. In the context of commercial real estate funds and syndications, third-party fund administration ensures efficient and professional management, allowing investors to focus on their core investment strategies.

A Traditional IRA is a retirement account where contributions may be tax-deductible in the year they are made. Taxes are paid upon withdrawal

Underwriting is the process of evaluating the risk and potential of an investment, including analyzing financial data, market conditions, and other factors to determine its viability and profitability.

Vacancy loss refers to the lost rental income due to unoccupied units or vacancies in a property.

The vacancy rate is the percentage of unoccupied rental units in a property or market.

Value-add refers to a real estate investment strategy where the investor or operator identifies underperforming or undervalued properties and implements improvements or enhancements to increase the property’s value and generate higher returns.

Vertical integration in commercial real estate refers to the ownership and control of multiple stages of the investment process, from property acquisition and development to property management and leasing. This integrated approach allows for streamlined operations and enhanced efficiency.

Zoning is the process of designating land areas for specific uses, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural. Local governments establish zoning regulations to control and guide development within their jurisdictions. Understanding zoning restrictions is crucial for real estate investors and developers when evaluating properties.