Rental Cash-on-Cash Calculator Free

Analyze rental property returns — cash-on-cash, IRR, cap rate, DCR, and 5-year projections

What is this? Cash-on-cash return measures the annual pre-tax cash flow from a rental property as a percentage of your total cash invested (down payment + closing costs + rehab). Unlike cap rate (which ignores financing), cash-on-cash shows the return on YOUR money — making it the clearest measure for investors using a mortgage.

Who it's for: Landlords, real estate investors, and anyone analyzing whether a rental property is a good investment. Also useful for comparing properties with different down payments or financing terms.
Purchase Details
Mortgage
Monthly Income & Expenses
Assumptions (for 5-year projection)
5-year projection: Model shows your projected return if rent increases 3%/yr and property appreciates 3%/yr.
Key Returns
Cash-on-Cash Return
annual CF / cash invested
Cap Rate
NOI / purchase price
IRR (5-yr)
internal rate of return
Monthly Cash Flow
after all expenses
Debt Coverage Ratio
NOI / debt service
Total Cash Invested
down + closing + rehab

🏠 The 50% Rule Benchmark

Estimated non-mortgage expenses: /mo
50% of rent = /mo
Cash-on-Cash Rating
Negative5%+ Good10%+ Great15%+ Excellent
Annual Income vs. Expenses
Annual
5-Year Projection
Assumes 3%/yr rent increase and 3%/yr appreciation. Exit at year 5.
Year Monthly Rent Annual CF Property Value Loan Balance Equity Cum. Cash
Break-Even Analysis
Minimum Rent to Cover Costs
/month (before mortgage)
Minimum Rent for Positive CF
/month (after mortgage)
Looking for rental property financing? Compare rental loan rates from 75+ lenders — rental, BRRRR, and fix-and-flip loans.

Estimates only. Does not include depreciation, tax implications, or capital gains. Consult a real estate investor and CPA.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cash-on-cash return?

Cash-on-cash return = Annual cash flow / Total cash invested. Cash flow = rent - all expenses - mortgage. Total cash invested = down payment + closing costs + initial repairs. It measures return on actual cash put in, not total property value.

What is a healthy cash flow?

Aim for 200-500/month per unit after all expenses and vacancy allowance. 100-200/month is acceptable in lower-cost markets. Negative cash flow is acceptable if the property has strong equity upside and appreciation potential.

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