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Lina Reeves
Lina Reeves

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Debt Yield in Real Estate: The Metric Commercial Lenders Care About Most

What Is Debt Yield?

Debt yield measures property NOI as a percentage of the total loan amount. Unlike DSCR or LTV, debt yield is independent of interest rate and amortization.

Formula: Debt Yield = NOI / Loan Amount x 100

Why Lenders Use It

DSCR can be manipulated by extending amortization. LTV depends on appraisal assumptions. Debt yield cuts through both.

Debt Yield Lender View
10%+ Strong — easy approval
8-10% Acceptable — standard terms
6-8% Marginal — higher rate
Below 6% Decline

Example: Houston Office Building

  • NOI: $420,000/year
  • Loan: $4,200,000
  • Debt Yield: 10.0% — passes

If loan was $5,250,000: Debt Yield drops to 8.0% — borderline.

Debt Yield vs DSCR vs LTV

Metric Measures Rate sensitive? Appraisal sensitive?
Debt Yield NOI / Loan No No
DSCR NOI / Debt Service Yes No
LTV Loan / Value No Yes

Free Calculator

Debt Yield Calculator — instant debt yield with lender tier screening.


Know your debt yield before the lender asks.

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