How is "cash flow" defined in the context of real estate?

In the context of real estate, "cash flow" is defined as the net amount of cash being transferred in and out of an investment. This concept is essential for investors as it represents the actual cash that is generated or spent on a property after accounting for all income and expenses. It includes rental income received from tenants, as well as any other revenues associated with the property, while subtracting outgoings such as mortgage payments, property management fees, maintenance costs, taxes, and insurance.

Understanding cash flow is crucial for assessing the performance of an investment property, as positive cash flow indicates that an investment is profitable, while negative cash flow suggests that the property's expenses exceed its income. This distinction focuses on the liquidity and immediate financial health of an investment, making it a more comprehensive measure than simply looking at the total income or property value.