In the context of property appraisal, what does the 'net income' refer to?

Net income in property appraisal refers to the revenue generated from a property after deducting operating expenses. This figure represents the actual earnings that an investor can expect from the property, making it a crucial component in determining the property's value, especially in income-producing real estate. By subtracting operating expenses from the total revenue, the net income provides a clearer picture of the property's profitability, which is essential for both investors and appraisers when assessing its worth.

For example, if a property generates a total revenue of $100,000 a year and incurs $40,000 in operating expenses, the net income would be $60,000. This value is used to assess the return on investment and plays a significant role in valuation methods, such as the income approach to appraisal. Understanding net income helps appraisers gauge an investment's risk and potential for future cash flow, making it a vital concept in the appraisal process.