1. Home
  2. /
  3. education
  4. /
  5. What Is Levered IRR...

What Is Levered IRR and How is it Calculated? Unlock Your Investment’s True Potential

When delving into the realm of investments, particularly those involving real estate or capital-intensive projects, you might have encountered the term Internal Rate of Return, or IRR. 

This measure is a favorite among investors as it offers a glimpse into the potential profitability of an investment. When debt financing comes into play, a more nuanced version of this metric is used, called Levered IRR. So, what is levered IRR and how is it calculated?

Unlike Unlevered IRR, which does not consider any debt, Levered IRR factors in the financing aspect, helping investors gauge the profitability of investments after considering the cost of borrowed funds.

What is Levered IRR?

Levered IRR is the internal rate of return on an investment after accounting for borrowed funds. 

It crucially incorporates the financing costs — essentially the interest and fees paid on debt — and reflects the true return on the equity portion invested after these costs are paid.

Importance

For investors who use debt as a tool to enhance returns, Levered IRR is indispensable. It allows for a fair assessment of an investment by highlighting the actual returns earned on the equity portion after fulfilling debt obligations. 

This return is particularly pertinent as it deals directly with investor’s out-of-pocket risks and gains.

Key Components of Levered IRR

Levered IRR hinges on three fundamental components: the cash flows, financing costs, and the exit values. 

Here, cash flows stand for the net amount of cash transferred in and out of a business over a period, while financing costs relate to interest and other fees linked with debt. Lastly, exit values refer to the lump sum received upon selling or exiting the investment.

What Is Levered IRR and How is it Calculated? Detailed Guide

How to Calculate Levered IRR?

Step-by-Step Guide

To calculate Levered IRR, one would begin by analyzing the initial investment. This step involves establishing the total equity amount put into the investment, minus any loan amounts. It encompasses more than just the purchase price, also integrating closing costs and any initial repairs or capital improvements.

Next, projecting the net cash flows over the investment’s life span is critical. This projection takes the anticipated income and subtracts operating expenses and debt payments, yielding the cash flow available to the equity investor.

The terminal value calculation comes into play when determining the investment’s end-of-period value. This usually involves estimates based on market growth rates or comparable sales.

After gathering these figures, Levered IRR is calculated using the IRR formula or financial software. The IRR is the rate that sets the net present value of the cash flows to zero and, for Levered IRR, this calculation includes debt servicing.

Tools and Techniques

Calculating the Levered IRR often utilizes Excel’s IRR function or dedicated financial calculators which can handle the cash flow sequences. There are also more nuanced software options for intricate financial modeling.

Considerations When Using Levered IRR

Calculating Levered IRR means considering the implications of debt, which often increases both the potential return and the risk. The interest rates and refinancing conditions can significantly affect the Levered IRR. 

Moreover, understanding the tax benefits or obligations that come with debt financing can influence the interpretation of this financial metric.

Levered IRR vs. Unlevered IRR: Key Differences

While both metrics aim to determine the rate of return, Levered IRR, with debt considerations, will often be higher than Unlevered IRR due to the risk associated with leveraging. 

The comparison of the two can reveal much about the influence of financing on an investment’s risk and return profile.

Pro Tips for Accurate Calculation

For a precise Levered IRR evaluation, the cash flow projections must be rooted in reality, taking to account the evolving market conditions and potential cost variations. 

Fully recognizing all costs relating to debt is also imperative to avoid underestimation. Investors should also regularly carry out scenario analysis to anticipate how changes in the investment environment could affect returns.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

When projecting cash flows, a common mishap is to lean on overly optimistic figures. It is equally critical not to underestimate the costs linked with debt, from interest payments to potential penalties. 

Moreover, it’s essential to account for all cash inflows and outflows throughout the lifespan of the investment, ensuring that no financial movement goes ignored.

Levered IRR in Investment Decision Making

Levered IRR serves as a vital beacon in the sea of financial decision-making. By comparing the Levered IRR to the required rate of return, investors can decide whether to move forward with a leveraged investment. 

Importantly, Levered IRR should not stand alone but be part of a chorus of financial metrics used to evaluate an opportunity.

unlevered irr

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Levered and Unlevered IRR?

The main difference lies in the consideration of debt. Levered IRR takes into account the cost of borrowing, while Unlevered IRR does not.

How does debt financing affect the calculation of IRR?

Debt financing introduces additional cash outflows in the form of interest and fees, which affects the net cash flow, and consequently the Levered IRR.

Can Levered IRR be negative, and what does it signify?

Yes, a negative Levered IRR indicates that the investment is expected to diminish the value of the capital invested after accounting for debt costs.

How do changes in interest rates impact Levered IRR?

Changes in interest rates will affect the cost of debt service, which can increase or decrease the Levered IRR depending on whether rates rise or fall.

Is Levered IRR the only metric to consider when evaluating a leveraged investment?

No, while important, Levered IRR is just one of many financial metrics that investors use to evaluate the viability of a leveraged investment. Other metrics include net present value (NPV), cash on cash return, and debt service coverage ratio (DSCR), among others.

Conclusion

By accounting for the cost of debt, Levered IRR offers an insightful perspective on what the equity investor can truly expect to earn. 

Its calculation might be intricate, but the insight it provides is invaluable for investment decisions involving debt financing.