Loss to Lease

Loss to lease is the difference between gross market rent (what units would command at current market rates) and gross scheduled rent (in-place rent). Quantifies the rent capture opportunity.

What it means in practice

If market rent is $2,500 per unit and in-place rent is $2,100, loss to lease is $400 per unit. On a 20-unit building, that's $96,000 annually of "captured" upside that a buyer could theoretically realize over time (subject to rent control constraints).

Why it matters for LA multifamily

For LA multifamily in RSO buildings, loss to lease is often substantial but difficult to capture quickly. Under the July 2026 4% ceiling, closing a 20% loss-to-lease gap takes 5+ years. Buyers discount pro forma rent capture heavily vs. in-place numbers.

Related terms

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