have to substantially improve these assets, which means doubling the property’s basis. Essentially, it’s the building’s basis, but just think about it, I guess for this purpose, as the purchase price. You have to add as much as the purchase price basically in capital improvements, so it’s substantial. Or you have to develop the property from the ground up and you have to hold it for 10 years.
RENTAL TAX SPECIFICS
Rental property owners are open to a variety of benefits, which I’ve listed below. You’ll notice that several are the same as for other real estate investments. 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.
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 15
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