When calculating land value using a cap rate, what is the first step?

When determining land value using a capitalization rate (cap rate), the first step involves calculating the income generated by the property. This is essential because the cap rate is derived from the relationship between the income a property generates and its market value.

To assess the value of land in this context, the income approach is utilized, where the expected income from the property provides insight into its value. By calculating the income, appraisers can apply the cap rate to understand how the investment will perform relative to its market value.

Once the income is established, it's easier to apply the cap rate to convert that income into an estimate of value. Without accurately assessing the income, subsequent calculations, such as determining the cap rate or estimating market value, would lack a grounded basis, thereby complicating the evaluation process.