We propose a structural model with liquidity frictions at the property level for the pricing of commercial mortgages. The model shows that a moderate liquidity shock has a sizable effect on mortgage default risk. The sensitivities of default rates to volatility of property prices, cash payout and interest rates, all increase significantly as liquidity deteriorates. Empirical evidence strongly supports model predictions. The results suggest that failing to account for the effect of real estate illiquidity leads to substantial bias in estimation of default risk, the optimal subordination level and valuation of the structured products.

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