Definition of "Utility"
In order to determine what is the definition of utility, we only need to look at what the term comes from. The word utility can be used to describe something useful and when looking at what is utility in real estate we see amenities that provide functionality and the actual ability to use properties based on our modern lifestyle. Thus, utility is an additional service that is required so that the property can be fully functional. These services are paid on a monthly basis and include services such as electricity, natural gas, air conditioning, sewage, water, trash, and, based on the evolution of modern living needs, sometimes internet and cable as well.
In other words, the term utility covers services provided to a parcel of land by public utility companies, such as gas, water, electricity.
Why are Utilities Important in Real Estate?
Whether you are interested in rental properties or are looking to purchase a home, the cost of utilities can tell us a lot of things. When the landlord determines the price they charge tenants for rentals, they keep in mind the cost of utilities because these monthly expenses influence your return on investment and profit. Utilities can also be offloaded to the tenant, making them responsible for the monthly costs from gas, electricity, water, etc. However, by not passing the utilities responsibility, they make sure that all the bills are paid on time.
Utilities in Commercial Real Estate
Regarding commercial real estate, utilities are included in the operating expenses as they are paid out-of-pocket and impact the Net Operating Income (NOI). These costs are split between the multiple commercial tenants through the pro-rata method and come as a cost added to the monthly rent. The cost of utilities and other operating expenses is split based on the square footage of the space rented for common areas. Otherwise, and mainly if it can be determined how much each renter spends, they each pay the amount of water, gas, and electricity they use.
Popular Real Estate Terms
One of series of parallel beams directly supporting a floor or a roof. Joists can be made out of wood, steel or steel reinforced concrete. Joists are in turn supported by other beams or ...
Rental income received from property that exceeds the costs of owning and maintaining the property. ...
Conversion of real property into money. The breaking up and selling of a real estate company for cash distribution to its creditors and then owners. Chapter 7 of the Federal Bankruptcy ...
Secondary written agreement to purchase real property in the event the initial contract is not signed. ...
Usual operating service life of property for the purpose it was acquired. The useful life used for depreciation accounting does not necessarily coincide with the actual physical life or any ...
Restraining a person or business from denying an appropriate conveyance of property evidenced by a deed has given. ...
(1) The interest rate used to convert future receipts or payments in connection with real estate property to their present value. The cost of capital is used as the discount rate under the ...
A rule that the price of a house should not exceed about 2 to 2.5 times your family's gross annual earnings. Example : If annual gross income is $70,000, the highest price one could afford ...
Formal written examination given in every state to those people being the age of majority and qualifying to be a real estate salesperson or broker. The examination can consist of multiple ...
Have a question or comment?
We're here to help.