Let's face it, most investors become rental property owners for the money. Rental property income is great, but owning investment real estate comes with advantageous tax deductions as well.
If you file your taxes correctly, you can optimize your tax expenses. Reduce the amount you owe by understanding common real estate tax deductions.
Keep reading to learn more about property tax management in Coachella Valley, California.
Understanding Real Estate Tax Deductions
Real estate tax deductions are costs that reduce taxable income. Qualified tax deductions are expenses you incur related to owning a rental property, such as:
- Property management fees
- Repairs and maintenance
- Depreciation
- Office supplies
Optimizing your tax deductions can reduce the amount you owe to the IRS. Some filers qualify for a tax refund and correct deduction optimization can maximize how much you receive.
If your investment doesn't work out, deductions can help you offset some of your losses. This is especially true if deductions reduce your taxable income on highly profitable assets.
The more you focus on property tax management, the more you save. You can apply your funds to additional investments to diversify your portfolio.
Common Real Estate Deductions
A real estate investor may qualify for multiple tax deductions. Some of the most common deductions for real estate taxes in Coachella Valley, California, are:
Property Taxes
Investing in real estate subjects you to property taxes. These are fees owners pay to cover local services.
Rental property owners can deduct both state and local property taxes, usually up to $10,000. To qualify for this deduction, you have to pay the taxes in advance.
If you cannot afford property taxes, get tax advice from a rental property management company.
Improvement Expenses
Legally, property owners are responsible for maintenance and repairs for residential and commercial property. The IRS allows improvement deductions on investment properties, not personal residences.
The money you put into your assets for cleaning, plumbing, painting, etc., can be deducted from your taxes.
Property Management Fees
Real estate investors who hire property managers incur property management fees. These fees cover administrative tasks that a property manager performs, such as:
- Tenant screening
- Rent collection
- Legal dispute management
- Property maintenance and repairs
Property management fees are typically a percentage of rent each month.
Office Supplies
If your real estate investment requires an office, you might be able to include these fees in your deductions. A space has to meet certain requirements to count as a taxable deduction.
You can claim office supplies like phones, computers, folders, and paper.
Property Tax Management: Optimizing Expenses for Deductions
To optimize tax expenses, you need to know which deductions you are eligible for. Receiving help with property tax management and other rental property tasks is key to success in the industry.
PMI Coachella Valley is a full-service property management company providing help to residential and commercial owners. We offer everything from worry-free accounting to rent collection and recording.
Our specialized accounting staff can minimize expenses and maximize your income. Connect with us today to benefit from over 20 years of industry experience.
