DCM Technical Interview Help

Based on the WSO content and threads, here are some tips and insights for your upcoming Debt Capital Markets (DCM) technical interview, especially given your background in acquisitions for a REIT and healthcare brokerage:

1. Highlight Your Relevant Experience: Emphasize your experience with capital stacks and your collaboration with DCM teams. This shows you have a foundational understanding of how debt structures work and how they are crucial in real estate transactions.

2. Brush Up on DCM Fundamentals: Make sure you understand the basics of debt markets, including the types of debt instruments commonly used in real estate (e.g., senior debt, mezzanine financing, CMBS). Be prepared to discuss the advantages and risks associated with different types of debt.

3. Technical Questions to Prepare For:

   • Debt Yield Calculation: Be ready to calculate and discuss debt yield, as it's a critical measure in DCM. Formula: Debt Yield = NOI / Loan Amount.
   • Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratios: Understand how to calculate LTV and its implications on the risk and pricing of the debt.
   • Interest Coverage Ratios (ICR): Know how to calculate and interpret ICR, which is crucial for assessing the debt service capability of a property.

4. General Questions You Might Be Asked:

   • How do you assess the risk in a real estate debt deal?
   • Can you walk us through a deal where you structured the capital stack?
   • What are the key factors you consider when working with DCM teams?

5. Questions to Ask:

   • What is the typical structure of deals that the team works on?
   • Can you describe a recent transaction that was particularly challenging or interesting?
   • How does the team stay ahead in the current market conditions, especially with interest rate fluctuations?

6. Prepare to Discuss Market Trends: Given your experience, you might be expected to discuss how current economic conditions (like interest rates or real estate market trends) impact debt strategies in real estate.

7. Review Recent Deals by the Firm: If possible, look up recent transactions by the team or firm to discuss intelligently, showing your interest and proactive approach.

By focusing on these areas, you'll demonstrate not only technical competence but also a keen understanding of how your background is relevant and valuable to a DCM role in real estate. Good luck!

Sources: Analyst Interview - Common Questions, Real Estate Q&A, WSO Hall of Fame: Real Estate Forum, Real Estate Debt Associate, Real Estate Interview Questions Master Thread