Preferred Return

A preferred return (or "pref") is the rate investors in a syndicated deal receive before the sponsor collects any share of profits. Typical LA multifamily pref: 6–9% annually.

What it means in practice

In syndicated LA multifamily deals, limited partner investors receive the preferred return first. Only after the pref is paid does the sponsor (general partner) share in the remaining profits. This structure aligns sponsor incentives with LP returns.

Why it matters for LA multifamily

For LA multifamily syndications in 2026, prefs typically run 7–8% on value-add deals, 6–7% on core-plus. Pref rates have risen slightly from 2021 lows as risk-free rates increased. LPs evaluate deals by comparing pref rates, split structures, and historical sponsor track record.

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