10 smart moves for real estate investors and operators at year’s end

by | Nov 17, 2022

ARTICLE | November 17, 2022

In the past year, commercial real estate has seen a dramatic rise in interest rates and a tempered slowdown in transactional activity. 2023 will provide an opportunity for well-positioned organizations to take advantage of the right avenues. Real estate owners and investors must make wise decisions now to be ready for next year.

As we close the books on 2022, here are 10 important year-end resolutions:

1. Keep REIT distributions on target

Now is the time to review distributions from your real estate investment trust. Have you met the dispersal requirements for 2022?

Here are some suggestions if your REIT hasn’t yet hit the distribution mark. >

2. Use it or lose it: 100% bonus depreciation

Assets placed in service before Dec. 31 remain eligible for 100% bonus depreciation from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. Starting in January, the allowance drops to 80%, so it pays to act quickly.

Cost segregation studies can be particularly helpful in accelerating depreciation deductions >

3. Watch out for disappearing interest deductions

Businesses that did not make the real property trade or business election have benefited from the interest limitation calculation adding back depreciation and amortization, allowing for more interest deduction. This will change in 2023, as the deduction for depreciation and amortization will no longer be added back; this means businesses may find their interest deduction to be smaller starting next year.

4. Don’t pass up tax-saving opportunities

Be prudent in reviewing your pass-through entity tax options and elections. Many states have opened up the opportunity for businesses to pay state taxes rather than having to withhold them on behalf of their partners. These payments have the benefit of being deductible by the business rather than capped at the individual level. Some states require an election to opt in before the end of the year.

Stay up to date on the pass through entity elections available at the state level >

5. Leverage technology to maximize your tax function

Leveraging technology is key to maximizing your tax data and attributes; more structured data will allow for better decision-making and turn your tax function into a value-creation center. For example, in the current inflationary environment, tax attributes (like depreciation or net operating losses) lose value as the nominal value of a dollar decreases.

Look for opportunities to take advantage of these attributes before the value declines >

6. Harvest your losses

While the stock market has had a rough year, losses are only recognized for tax purposes after you sell your investment. Locking in these losses will reduce your tax liability for the year; however, be aware of the wash-sale rules if you want to repurchase the stock.

7. Be wary of debt modifications

Note that rising interest rates may push borrowers to look for ways to alter the terms of their debt. While the economic or cash flow benefit may be vital, borrowers must also consider the tax ramifications of cancellation of debt income.

Take a full view of debt workouts and restructurings before you act >

8. Know the risks of investing abroad

A strong U.S. dollar means greater buying power internationally; however, the decision to invest globally should not be taken lightly. Involve your tax advisor early and often to structure your investments appropriately and minimize tax leakage.

Location is always important, but there are other factors to consider. >

9. Time to dust the cobwebs off your valuation policy

With interest rates up and transaction activity down, valuing your properties may not be as straightforward as in past years. Before you mark up or down your assets for year-end, stress test your valuation methodology to be sure that it still makes sense in the current market.

Valuation in a volatile environment requires added focus and fresh perspective. >

10. Reduce your carbon footprint and your tax liability

The Inflation Reduction Act extended energy-related tax breaks and indexed for inflation the 179D deduction for energy-efficient commercial buildings. These new rules go into effect on Jan. 1, 2023.

Can you take advantage of energy and excise tax savings in the new year? >

Questions or Want to Talk?

Call us directly at 972.221.2500 (Flower Mound) or 940.591.9300 (Denton),
or complete the form below and we’ll contact you to discuss your specific situation.


This article was written by Scott Helberg and originally appeared on 2022-11-17.
2022 RSM US LLP. All rights reserved.
https://rsmus.com/insights/industries/real-estate/10-smart-moves-real-estate-investors-operators-year-end.html

The information contained herein is general in nature and based on authorities that are subject to change. RSM US LLP guarantees neither the accuracy nor completeness of any information and is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for results obtained by others as a result of reliance upon such information. RSM US LLP assumes no obligation to inform the reader of any changes in tax laws or other factors that could affect information contained herein. This publication does not, and is not intended to, provide legal, tax or accounting advice, and readers should consult their tax advisors concerning the application of tax laws to their particular situations. This analysis is not tax advice and is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for purposes of avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed on any taxpayer.

RSM US Alliance provides its members with access to resources of RSM US LLP. RSM US Alliance member firms are separate and independent businesses and legal entities that are responsible for their own acts and omissions, and each are separate and independent from RSM US LLP. RSM US LLP is the U.S. member firm of RSM International, a global network of independent audit, tax, and consulting firms. Members of RSM US Alliance have access to RSM International resources through RSM US LLP but are not member firms of RSM International. Visit rsmus.com/aboutus for more information regarding RSM US LLP and RSM International. The RSM(tm) brandmark is used under license by RSM US LLP. RSM US Alliance products and services are proprietary to RSM US LLP.

 

RSM

KHA Accountants, PLLC is a proud member of RSM US Alliance, a premier affiliation of independent accounting and consulting firms in the United States. RSM US Alliance provides our firm with access to resources of RSM US LLP, the leading provider of audit, tax and consulting services focused on the middle market. RSM US LLP is a licensed CPA firm and the U.S. member of RSM International, a global network of independent audit, tax and consulting firms with more than 43,000 people in over 120 countries.

Our membership in RSM US Alliance has elevated our capabilities in the marketplace, helping to differentiate our firm from the competition while allowing us to maintain our independence and entrepreneurial culture. We have access to a valuable peer network of like-sized firms as well as a broad range of tools, expertise, and technical resources.

For more information on how KHA Accountants can assist you, please call 972.221.2500.

Bakes Takes Volume 1, Issue 8

This month’s Bake’s Takes presents three powerful reads that discuss overcoming anxiety in high achievers, traits of effective teams, and reasons why leadership teams fail. It provides actionable advice on how to avoid mental traps, foster healthy collaboration, and elevate mediocre teams to high performing ones. Dive in to gain a fresh perspective on leadership challenges and strategies.

Attestation Services: An Introductory Guide

In today’s business world, trust and transparency are non-negotiable. Discover how attestation services can enhance your company’s credibility by providing independent verification of your financial information. Read our essential guide to learn how these services can drive business success and foster stakeholder confidence.

What do You Want… Really?

How you plan for retirement today can significantly affect your future. This article explores the implications of current decisions on future outcomes, and how the KHA team can help align your actions with your aspirations. Let’s start shaping your future today.

Will your Business Last Beyond You?

Ensuring business longevity involves intentional succession planning. Explore how KHA’s Dynamic Business Advisory program helps you identify strategic gaps and build a lasting legacy. Are you ready to think generationally?

Bake’s Takes Volume 1, Issue 7

Dive into the world of strategic consulting with Jonny Baker’s “Bake’s Takes”, featuring a careful selection of insightful reads from the fields of team dynamics, conflict resolution, and decision-making. This edition explores the true meaning of teamwork, the importance of healthy conflict in management, and introduces the innovative “RAPID” decision-making method. A rich resource for leaders seeking to create vision, alignment, and execution.

Are you a CEO or a Firefighter?

Are you a business owner stuck in the firefighting mode, rushing from one crisis to another? Discover how KHA Strategic Consultants can help you transition from a reactive approach to proactive strategic planning.

Can You Attract Top Talent?

In the battle for top talent, 75% of companies struggle to fill positions, giving the onus to firms to differentiate themselves. This article outlines four key attributes successful firms possess.

Bakes Takes Volume 1, Issue 6

Explore the top three reads recommended by KHA Consulting’s Jonny Baker in this month’s Bake’s Takes. From understanding how new CEOs establish trust, to leveraging your strengths for greater impact, and spotting talent in the modern era, these articles offer essential insights for today’s leaders. Don’t miss out on these refreshing perspectives designed to push your thinking and enhance your leadership effectiveness.

Accounts Payable Strategies and Best Practices

Efficient accounts payable management isn’t just about paying bills—it can directly impact your business’s financial health and growth. From digital tools for invoice processing to robust internal controls for fraud prevention, this article covers everything you need to know.