Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and adjusted for current market conditions and other factors.
4.1 Critical accounting estimates and assumptions
Management makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom be exactly the same as the related actual results. The estimates, assumptions and management judgements that carry a significant risk of material adjustments to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are outlined below.
Principal assumptions underlying management’s estimation of fair value property portfolio
The valuation of the investment property portfolio is determined in accordance with the Fund’s valuation principles. All investments are measured at fair value and based on active market prices, adjusted if necessary for any difference in nature, location or condition of the specific asset.
Current economic developments and uncertainties influence the valuation of our investment properties. The methods and significant assumptions applied in determining the fair value of our investment properties are mainly due to (i) active market prices, (ii) the influence of so-called rent-free periods and vacancy rates, (iii) the discount rates and (iv) assumed trends in rents.
These market values are based on valuations by independent external valuation experts. The valuation is based on an open market value, supported by market evidence in which assets can be exchanged between a knowledgeable willing buyer and a knowledgeable willing seller in an arm’s length transaction at the date of the valuation, in accordance with the guidelines of MSCI Netherlands Property Index.
The valuations are based on a discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis of each property combined – where necessary – with valuations based on market evidence. The DCF analyses are adjusted to existing lease agreements, in order to cover the full period of existing lease agreements. The DCF analyses are based on calculations of the future rental revenue in accordance with the terms in existing lease agreements and estimations of the rental values when the agreements expire. The starting point for the estimation of the discount rate is the nominal interest rate for 10-year Dutch government bonds. This rate should be increased in accordance with the risks involved in property investments. The whole investment property portfolio is appraised on a quarterly basis by independent external appraisers.