What financial metric is used to calculate an investment's performance after deducting operating expenses?

Net income is the financial metric that provides a clear picture of an investment's performance after deducting all operating expenses. It represents the actual profit an investment generates, which is critical for investors to assess the viability and profitability of their investment.

For real estate, net income is calculated by taking the gross income generated from the property — such as rent, fees, and any additional income — and subtracting all operating expenses like property management fees, property taxes, maintenance costs, and any other operational costs. This figure is essential, as it reflects the amount of money available to the investor after all necessary expenditures have been accounted for, helping to determine the overall financial health of the investment.

Understanding net income enables investors to make informed decisions about their properties, assess their investment strategies, and evaluate whether they should hold onto, sell, or reinvest in their properties. Other metrics, while important, do not provide the same level of insight regarding expenses and true profitability.