Also, as with all properties, if you sell within a year of buying, you’ll be taxed at your income rate. If you hold on to a property for a year or more, as is usually the case for rental properties, you’ll deal with capital gains tax, which is a lower rate. Your overall tax deductions can depend on what type of investment business you have (sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporate entity). And, as always, do your research to make sure you’re up-to-date on all the latest tax laws, as these can, and do, change. Consult with your tax attorney and CPA!
Rental property tax benefits:
• home office, office supplies, computer software • mileage • travel • meals (50%, as long as you’re having a business meeting while eating) • mortgage, unsecured loan, and credit card interest • loan origination fees or points (they’re considered kinds of interest) • utilities, trash, and recycling
• property taxes • licensing fees • occupancy taxes
• insurance, including liability, hazard, fire, sewer backup, flood, and loss of income (talk to a tax professional if you have an umbrella liability policy or a landlord liability policy) • maintenance, repairs, improvements, and cleaning • advertising • commissions to real estate agents or property managers who find tenants and renew leases (this is considered part
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