Make the result useful
rental-income variance
This worksheet makes rental-income variance explicit from the exact figures you enter. Review the period and basis of every amount before comparing results.
Use a conservative scenario as well as the base scenario; the calculation describes assumptions rather than predicting behavior.
The assumptions that move this result
Budget
Planned income for the same period.
Actual
Collected or recognized income on the same basis.
actual income − budgeted income
Read the result as a planning measure for the selected period.
Read the number in context
Worked scenario
$8,700 actual against $9,200 budget is −$500.
Edge case
A prepaid payment can distort one month if periods are mixed.
It does not explain the variance cause.
Before you act
• Confirm every input uses the same time period.
• Test a downside scenario before relying on the result.
• Keep source records with the decision.
Formula
actual income − budgeted income
What period should I use?
Use one consistent reporting or planning period for every input.
Does this predict performance?
No. It only performs the stated arithmetic.
Can it replace records or advice?
No. Confirm decisions with source records and appropriate professional guidance.