5 Tax Benefits to Owning Real Estate in a Corporation

1. **Deductible Expenses:** Corporations can deduct various expenses related to the maintenance and operation of real estate properties, such as property taxes, mortgage interest, insurance premiums, repairs, and property management fees. These deductions can help reduce the corporation’s taxable income.

2. **Depreciation:** Real estate held by a corporation can be depreciated over time, allowing the corporation to deduct a portion of the property’s value as a business expense. This can provide significant tax savings over the long term, even if the property’s value appreciates.

3. **1031 Exchange:** If the corporation decides to sell one real estate property and purchase another like-kind property, it may be able to defer capital gains taxes through a 1031 exchange. This allows the corporation to reinvest the proceeds from the sale into a new property without triggering immediate tax liability.

4. **Limited Liability Protection:** Operating real estate within a corporation can provide liability protection for the owners and shareholders. This means that in the event of legal claims or liabilities related to the property, the owners’ personal assets are generally shielded from potential losses.

5. **Estate Planning and Succession:** Transferring ownership of real estate through a corporation can offer potential estate planning benefits, such as facilitating the orderly transfer of ownership to heirs or other individuals, while potentially minimizing estate taxes.

It’s important to note that the tax benefits of owning real estate in a corporation can vary based on factors such as the corporation’s structure (C corporation or S corporation), the specific property type, and changes in tax laws and regulations. Additionally, while there are potential benefits, there are also complexities and potential downsides to owning real estate in a corporation that need to be carefully considered.

Always consult with a tax advisor, or accountant who is familiar with both federal and Illinois state laws to understand the full range of tax implications and benefits associated with owning real estate in a corporation. Laws and regulations can change, and individual circumstances may vary, so seeking professional advice is crucial.

For more information call (773) 407-2100