Vacancy Cost Calculator
Compare the cost of waiting for a higher rent with leasing sooner at a more achievable rent.
Frequently asked questions
What is vacancy cost?
Vacancy cost is the rental income a landlord forgoes while a property is unoccupied. In this comparison, it is measured against the income that could have been earned by leasing sooner at the achievable weekly rent.
How does the calculator work out the break-even point?
When the target rent is higher, the calculator divides the income missed during the extra vacancy by the weekly rent increase, then adds the assumed vacancy period. This shows the estimated break-even time from today.
Does a higher advertised rent always produce more rental income?
No. A higher weekly rent can be offset by a longer vacancy. Actual leasing time and achievable rent depend on property condition, presentation, location, layout, parking, seasonality, competing listings, tenant demand and broader market conditions.
Is this a rental appraisal?
No. This is an indicative financial comparison only. It does not assess the property or predict an exact achievable rent or vacancy period. A property-specific rental appraisal should consider the property's individual features and current market evidence.