What is Capitalization Rate (Cap Rate)? Capitalization rate (or Cap Rate for short) is commonly used in real estate Real Estate Real estate is real property that consists of land and improvements, which include buildings, fixtures, roads, structures, and utility systems. Property rights give a title of ownership to the land, improvements, and natural resources such as minerals, plants, animals U.S. Cap Rate Snapshot . Capitalization rates for U.S. commercial real estate assets were broadly unchanged in H1 2018, with the exception of some retail segments. Industrial cap rates tightened the most and multifamily rates edged down modestly. Office cap rates were generally stable and cap rates for hotels were also firm.