How to Read a Lease and Analyze a Rent Roll

Real estate leases are extremely important to understand, as the lease payments may become the primary source of repayment for any financing you may extend to the borrower. This course explores the contents and key components of a typical lease. We will discuss different lease types and the key risk considerations. Then, we will learn to calculate lease rates and analyze the terms and conditions. We will also consider estoppel certificates. Finally, we will explore how to read and evaluate a rent roll. You will also develop practical skills to assess lease quality and tenant strength, identify income stability risks, and interpret lease clauses that impact cash flow. Through real-world examples, you will learn how to connect lease structures to property valuation and lending decisions, enabling you to make more informed credit assessments in commercial real estate transactions.