A Depreciation Checklist for Commercial Property Owners and Tenants

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You may find it difficult to comprehend the various tax depreciation allowances available for owners and tenants of commercial property. With increased awareness about Australian tax depreciation, property owners and tenants may make more informed financial decisions and enhance their cash flow. A property owner is eligible to claim depreciation for Division 43 capital works that they have paid for. This may include building, structural additions, and recently constructed or renovated kitchens, outdoor areas, and improved bathrooms. Additionally, Division 40 assets are also claimable that they have paid for and included as part of the tenancy agreement. Tenants may also claim depreciation for building fit-out in case they paid for it as along with machinery, furniture, etc.

Here is the checklist:

1. Capital works deductions:

These deductions are applicable to structural elements of a building. Capital works deductions will apply on bricks, mortar, walls, tiling, flooring, wiring, concrete, mezzanines, etc. These deductions are based on the past expenditures of the building. And, apart from the tourists’ accommodation, they can be claimed on commercial buildings in which construction started after July 2, 1982. Capital works deductions for tourists’ accommodation are eligible to be claimed on building in which construction began after August 21, 1979. Consider these factors when you calculate depreciation for property.

2. Plant and equipment depreciation:

Plant and equipment assets can be defined as those assets that are removable within an income-generating property. It may include hot water systems, ceiling fans, carpets, air conditioners, exhaust fans, light shades, and blinds, among others. Depreciation for plant and equipment assets will be calculated on the basis of the individual effective life of every object as specified by ATO. The actual life of assets tends to differ from one industry to another industry. Therefore, it becomes significant to refer to an expert Quantity Surveyor, as they will ensure that deductions are calculated appropriately.

3. Tax depreciation schedule:

A tax depreciation schedule can be described as a report that includes all deductions in the income-generating property. The report is prepared with the assistance of an expert Quantity Surveyor. It can assist to enhance property owners’ and commercial tenants’ flow of cash. The quantity surveyor will require a few details while preparing a schedule. Amid the vast commercial property types, an expert site inspector will have to carry out detailed scrutiny. In this they will assess the building and floor coverings, specify construction methods, the material used, condition of te property, and workmanship, among other things. The Quantity Surveyor will then use these details to enhance depreciation deductions.

Conclusion:

Tax Depreciation Schedule will remain in existence for forty years. The quantity surveyor will also extend his help to property investors in claiming depreciation on investment property. If you are keen to boost the capital works and depreciation deductions, you must always hire a professional quantity surveyor as they will help in processing known and unknown costs alike. Not to mention, they can also asses the contract of sale and tenancy contracts to make sure that building works and assets are correctly allocated between entities.

Everything You Need to Know About Property Depreciation

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Property investors receive many taxation advantages in Australia. And, this is the reason why they prefer to make their investment in properties all across the country. But, sometimes investors fail to file the Australian tax return and subsequently miss out on the benefits of depreciation deductions. A large number of investors are aware of the various claims available to them for expenses. The expenses may include loans’ interest, council rates, property management fees, repairs and maintenance costs, among others.

Given below are some vital details about property depreciation that you should be aware of:

1. Property depreciation:

When the building begins to age, its shape and the assets inside it tend to wear out. These things depreciate over a period of time. It is worth noting that the Australian Taxation Office or ATO has permitted income-generating properties’ owners to claim depreciation as a tax deduction. Depreciation deduction can be divided into two separate categories. It includes division 43 capital works allowance and division 40 plant and equipment depreciation. It will help in preparing a property depreciation schedule.

2. Significance of capital works allowance:

It pertains to the claims for the wear and tear that takes place to the building structure and fixed objects. Capital work will contain objects such as roofs, walls, doors, kitchen cupboards, and toilet bowls, among others. Any residential building where construction started after September 15, 1987, will make its owner eligible for capital works deductions. The deduction can be sought for up to forty years at the rate of 2.5% every year. Owners of buildings built before 1987 should discover what deductions will remain available as these buildings underwent renovations. The renovations will lead to capital works deductions. Rental home returns have emerged to be highly profitable.

3. Plant and equipment depreciation:

Plant and equipment depreciation are eligible to be claimed for conveniently removable fixtures and fittings available inside the property. There are over 6000 various depreciable assets identified by ATO. It includes carpets, blinds, air conditioners, and smoke alarms among others. Each plant and equipment asset is allocated an individual effective lifespan and depreciation rate. As per the existing legislation, second-hand property owners who exchanged contracts after May 9, 2017, cannot claim deductions for earlier used plant and equipment assets. And, investors who bought new residential and highly renovated properties, commercial real estate will be able to claim depreciation deductions.

4. Importance of claiming depreciation:

It is significant for the owner of the residential property to claim a depreciation deduction. It will help in making a huge difference in an investors’ cash flow. We have discovered that a residential client’s average first-year claim was approximately $9000.

Conclusion:

You may claim the depreciation of your investment property against taxable income. And, seasoned property investors are aware of the benefits of depreciation residential rental property. Some property investors will even take depreciation into consideration prior to buying their next investment property. Anyone buying a property for the purpose of generating income will remain eligible to depreciate buildings and assets inside it against assessable income. It will help to lessen their tax burden and maximize the gains.

Renting or Buying: Which is the best choice for a commercial property?

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Deciding whether to purchase or rent a commercial property may be tough at an instance. When you plan to buy a property, you have to pay for it upfront. In case you have taken a loan, you only own the property once you have cleared the loan. But, when you rent a property, you would be considered as a tenant rather than the owner. So, before contacting an agency to know about tax depreciation investment property, here are some important things you must know:

What happens when you rent a commercial property?

When you consider availing a property on rent, you have to bear the costs as per the terms of the lease. While the landlord pays the capital cost, you can think about investing money in your business and focus on growth. If you wish to invest in the property, then you need to go through the rental property depreciation report. This would give a fair idea of how the tax would be deducted for the year.

How can renting a property be beneficial for you?

Once you avail a commercial property on rent, you can think about shifting to another location only when the lease ends. If you observe fluctuations in the market conditions or a change in personal life, then you wouldn’t have to bother much for a longer-term. Establishing a business at a property on rent can really help when the business is going to evolve in the forthcoming years. Renting also implies that you have to give less upfront cost. The concerned person has to pay a deposit equivalent to anything between 25% and 50% of the actual purchase price. If tax depreciation reports are what you’re concerned about then, you could contact Deppro.

What happens when you buy a commercial property?

When you make up your mind for buying a commercial property, you initially have to bear the upfront cost and the ongoing costs ahead. As you manage your business, you do have the right to make structural changes to suit your requirements. You may also think about selling or giving the property on rent a few years later. You can do anything without approaching an agent or a landlord.

How can purchasing a property be beneficial for you?

Purchasing a property means you can develop your business at a specific location for the long term. You also don’t have to worry about shifting assets from one location to the other. But, before finalizing the decision, it’s better to go through the tax depreciation investment property rules. While you start paying the upfront fees, you won’t have to pay for the rent that may increase year after year. You can actually focus on bearing other expenses while the payment is made at a fixed rate. Later, you could also make up for capital gain when you decide to sell the property after some years.

Conclusion:

Finally, no matter what your decision might be, you can always gain some significant tax benefits when the officers consider tax depreciation. If you are the owner of the property, you can claim depreciation under division 43 and division 40. While division 43 refers to capital work deductions, division 40 refers to deductions for assets and plant equipment. When you submit the tax returns, you can claim the depreciation on investment property ATO as the deducted tax.

3 Important Steps to Expand the Portfolio of Australian Property Investors

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The decision to invest in a property in Australia is a significant one. And, you must do thorough research prior to starting your investment. The depreciation tax benefit is immense in this country and this is the reason why many investors invest in property. It is significant to decide when, where, and how to expand your property portfolio. It will help in enhancing your chances of success and minimise the risks associated with the investment. Investment in the property will help you in claiming the valid tax deduction like depreciation.

Given below are some of the vital steps that you must consider:

1. Carry out a thorough research of the property market:

It is vital to carry out a research when you either plan to purchase your first investment property or expand your portfolio. You may evaluate economic aspects and the potential of capital growth in areas with lesser entry charges and predicting high growth. You must also check Development Applications to find out any roads or infrastructure projects. The projects will contain new schools, parks, commercial spaces, etc. These things will attract a large number of renters in the area. It is also significant to examine areas with a vast range of public transport options, job opportunities for tenants, etc. Knowledge of these factors will assist in deciding future property income possibilities. You should also be aware of the existing ATO depreciation rates.

2. Evaluate acceptable risk:

You should also be aware of the kinds of risks that you are ready to accept. All the property investments are plagued with some sort of financial risk. And, identifying your limits will be vital in reducing your possible stress. It will also help in ensuring that you may not end up overextending your financial obligations. You must identify possible changes in economic aspects that may include interest rates or repairs and maintenance that might be needed on the property. It will also help in preparing your tax depreciation schedule for rental property.

3. Select vast locations and properties alternatives:

If you are keen to lessen your risk, it is significant to diversify your property portfolio to enhance your access. You must also spread the financial risks in a vast range of assets. In the financial year 2018/2019, it was discovered that 74% of investors bought investment properties in metropolitan cities. Deppro also noted that investors liked to stay with their comfort area with a vast 92 residing in metropolitan cities. The investors also bought investment properties locally compared to 8% who invested in local areas.

Conclusion:

You must have identified by now the significance of expanding your property investment portfolio. You can get your federal tax depreciation schedule prepared by experts to enhance your depreciation claims. A large number of property investors prefer to lay emphasis on residential rental properties. But, commercial properties also provide several advantages and you may also consider them to make your investment. But some investors feel that commercial properties may attach greater risk as a result of changing economic aspects. There is also a potential lengthy vacancy rate between tenancies.

Commercial Property: Frequently Asked Depreciation Questions

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You may take the word ‘depreciation’ as a loss. Yes, you are right in your approach, as the real meaning is all about losses and reduction. But depreciation, in reality, stands as profitable for business owners considering their depreciation claims. Deppro depreciation is one of the significant reasons which compel people to invest in real estate. Being an investor, there are many things that one may be curious about.

So here are a few frequently asked questions that may help your inquisitive mind to get answers about the same:

What do you mean by depreciation?

We all know that when a property or building is held or a long time, its value starts facing a depreciation. Thus accordingly, the owner becomes eligible to claim for tax depreciation owing to the wear and tear caused on the property. There are basically two kinds of categories on which a discount can be claimed. The first category is plant and equipment depreciation which is inclusive of removable items of the property such as AC’s, fans, lights, etc. On the other hand, the second is capital work depreciation which is applicable to permanent or fixed assets that cannot be moved, such as bricks, windows, etc.

How to claim for depreciation easily?

The very first thing to do in such a case is to seek assistance from property depreciation consultants to design your property depreciation schedule. One is required to pay a one-time fee for availing BMT tax schedules which lays out all the eligible tax deduction criteria. Ranging from depreciation in manufacturing, retail, office towers, and a lot more, this lists down all the eligible tax deduction standards for your commercial property.

Can you calculate depreciation on your own?

Everything cannot be your cup of tea; thus, it is always better to leave such things in the hands of a professional. You can knock the doors of quantity surveyors to get such a task done with ease.

Why does depreciation stand as important?

Owners can claim a huge amount of money as a deduction in tax every financial year. So you can very well understand how this depreciation minimizes the amount of tax that you have to pay during the financial year-end. It enhances the cash return and also balances the value for operating a business or being a property owner.

Are there any age criteria for a building to claim for a deduction?

Both old and new commercial buildings can reap in some depreciation benefits for the renters and the tenants. You can also get connected with an expert quantity surveyor to gain further information about the same. Ranging from final inspections to investment property calculator, occupancy certificates, they can also help you in efficiently calculate the age of your property.

Can new property owners insist for a depreciation claim based on the renovations taken up by the previous property owner?

Yes, the professionals can take into account all the renovations done on your property and use the data for preparing your depreciation schedule. Just for instance renovations such as plumbing, electricity, and similar such things can be taken into account for qualifying the depreciation claims.

Bottom Line:

So these were a few questions and answers that you must be aware of while preparing a rental property depreciation schedule. If you have more such questions hitting your mind, do let us know!

A Quick Guide to Depreciation Claims on Granny Flats and Tax Depreciation

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Granny flats are a kind of secondary residence on your property premises that you can rent out based on your convenience and preference. They can be thought of as an extension having almost all the features of an apartment or flat. The only difference is that such a unit is not bought by you in a separate apartment but exists there itself in your own property vicinities. The positive side of having such a flat ready for rent purpose is that you can have your eyes on it at all times and can also enjoy the benefits of Tax depreciation. Usually, people chose to build such granny flats towards the backside of their house so that your privacy and convenience is not restricted even if you plan to use it as a property rental.

What should a granny flat contain?

A granny flat should have the basic requirements of a small apartment such as a one-bedroom, drawing room, kitchen, and bathroom. Granny flats are usually rented out to the elderly people though that is not the only purpose in which you can use your property.

Granny flat tax exemptions

If you have purchased or built a granny flat, then you can look forward to some considerable tax deductions. The deductions may depend on leasing the flat or using it for your own residence, but yes the benefits are worth having one. You may be required to pay CGT taxes if you use a granny flat for generating some income by renting it, but the same stands as void when the apartment is occupied by a relative and rent-free. In either way, owning a granny flat can help you in some considerable ways for claiming depreciation for residential rental property. It enhances capital improvement by hiking the value of your investment and also soars the income-producing capability.

How to claim deductions on a granny flat?

While buying a granny flat, make sure that you ask the seller about the claims that you can make on the granny flats. Just because that property is on your own land doesn’t make things different while claiming tax exemptions and deductions.

The granny flats are more like a secondary dwelling space and thus at first should be able to generate income for being eligible for claiming investment property depreciation schedule ATO. Being in possession of a granny flat and being able to scoop some profits out of it makes you qualify for depreciation for capital work which is inclusive of all sorts of wear and tear that occurs on the property. One can also claim for plant and equipment depreciation while owning a granny flat.

Here are a few things on which you can request a tax dispensation:

  • Alarm systems
  • Ceiling fans
  • Air conditioners
  • Hot water system
  • Electrical fittings
  • Pumps
  • Curtain blinds
  • Pool patio
  • Bathroom fittings, etc.

Wrapping up:

Buying or constructing granny flats on your own property can bring in a whole bundle of chances to apply for tax depreciation. Thus it can be taken as one of the best high yielding and beneficial ideas to invest in a granny flat. Also, you can call in for the quantity surveyors to help you out with the depreciation schedule planning to make the most out of it.

4 Tips to Claim Depreciation for Childcare Centres

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Investors tend to show a keen interest in a property as there are enormous benefits when they file their tax return in Australia. Investors are keen to get a share in the profit of the growing real estate market.

Here are some of the reasons why childcare centres are becoming so attractive for investors:

1. Increase in depreciation schedule:

There has been a rise of 67% in tax depreciation schedules for childcare centres. The depreciation schedule has been rising consistently every year as there is a surging demand for these properties as an investment. The industry has witnessed robust growth in recent years. The fast growth of the industry has presented numerous opportunities for investors.

2. High demand for childcare centres:

There has been a high demand for childcare centres in the last few years. The main factors responsible for the sharp demand include strong rental yields and profitable depreciation deductions. However, some feel that there is an oversupply in the industry. Childcare centres have emerged to be a profitable investment. The hotspots may include suburban areas that have become famous among families. Additionally, these centres are becoming a famous option for proactive investors searching for the next asset to add to their portfolio. Among social factors, high birth rates and surging need for flexibility have contributed to the rising demand.

3. Long term agreement:

Childcare centres are largely leased out by tenants on a long term basis agreement that may last between five to ten years.  In this period, the centres offer positive rental incomes and remain a profitable asset to an investor’s portfolio. Investors can enhance their cash flow by taking benefit of the several depreciation deductions available from the many childcare centres. Childcare centres offer attractive yield on investment property that investors must not miss.

4. Huge deductions:

Reports suggest that when several depreciation schedules were prepared for childcare centres, it uncovered huge deductions over the life of the property. Owners can claim several depreciable items such as artificial grass, kitchen equipment, etc. And, tenants can seek advantage of the available depreciation deduction of their furniture, toys, and play equipment, among others. It is worth noting that owners of childcare centre have many plant and equipment assets. And, all of them offer some depreciable value.

Conclusion:

Childcare centres offer immense benefits to investors and help in lessening their tax burden. If you face any confusion while preparing the property report, you may seek the help of experts. According to a case study, owners get the opportunity of claiming $25,475 worth of depreciation deductions for plant and equipment. And, in the cumulative five years of securing the investment, the depreciation claim will total approximately $71,670.

5 Tax Saving Tips on Your Investment Property

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When you purchase and own an investment property, it gives you the benefit of saving plenty of tax. You get the advantage of claiming the various expenses and some depreciation against your rental incomes. When you prepare your property depreciation reports, it helps in minimising your tax burden. You must ensure that you manage your investment in the right manner so that it yields you profit. Your investment should also help you achieve your financial goals. An intelligent property investor may adopt several strategies to reduce his tax and increase his tax benefit.

Given below are some key tips that will help you save tax on your investment property:

1. Manage your capital gains:

Capital gains created in a particular year can be reduced by offsetting it against capital losses that you face. If you are keen to decrease the capital gain on the sale of a property, you may think of selling any asset that lost its value. You get a 50% discount on capital gains when an asset is held for over 12 months. Since the saving amount is huge, you should consider the timing of any sale. It is worth noting that the important date for calculating your capital gains is the contract date instead of the settlement date.

2. Manage your capital losses:

The capital losses that you may face in any year can be extended to future years. You may adopt this procedure when there are inadequate gains to absorb in the similar year. The capital losses can be extended to future years for an unknown tenure. You will not be able to carry the losses back. Therefore, if you achieved capital gain, you can initiate a loss to offset it against. You may seek the help of experts to find out your exact property tax depreciation.

3. Claim building depreciation:

It is the depreciation that you may claim on the building itself. How you will be able to claim it will depend on construction costs.  For a large number of properties, you may claim 2.5 percent of construction for at least 40 years. You must be able to determine the construction cost. The ideal way to decide it is by hiring a quantity surveyor to make a property tax depreciation schedule for you.

4. Expenses incurred for visits to the property:

It is important to note that if you face expenses related to property visits, you will be eligible to claim them. They will help in boosting your returns.

5. Plant & equipment depreciation:

This is the depreciation of assets within the property. It will include things such as curtains, fixtures, carpet, etc. You need to upgrade or replace these things at some point of time as they tend to depreciate faster.

Conclusion:

You may claim the above expenses and reduce your tax burden every year. You must assess the tax depreciation life effectively during this process. If you are conducting any renovation or replacing something major, don’t forget to do a scrapping schedule. The quantity surveyor will be able to calculate how much value is left for a particular item. After that, you will be able to claim that in the form of depreciation.

Why Does An Apartment Obtain More Depreciation Than A House?

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You must be wondering how come an apartment fetches higher depreciation deductions in comparison with a house. When you speak with leading property depreciation consultants they will tell you differences in property depreciation between houses and units. It will be useful for property investor to find out how a unit gets more depreciation deduction than a house. When you look at depreciation deductions, various things may impact the final calculation. It will consist of property’s purchase price, construction beginning date, settlement date, land value and fitting & fixtures’ value inside property. As a result of infrastructure amount involved in construction of residential unit compared with a residential property, the entire claim can be significantly impacted.

Let us check the various factors below:

More fixtures and fittings:

Units tend to include a larger number of fixtures and fitting when compared with a house. It therefore lets the owner claim against several items inside the units. It may include lights, carpets, and dishwashers. Additionally, unit owners will also be allowed to claim for a part of common property. It has been defined by Australian Taxation office (ATO) as spaces inside a complex or development shared between owners. It will include things like pools, driveways, external furniture, fire stairways, and lifts. Shared property has been recognised as one of the most vital difference between houses and units for the purpose of depreciation. However, one may claim deduction for them in select states. You may use an investment property calculator to carry out your estimates of depreciation.

Maximise your deduction:

It is advisable to maximise your available deductions. You will only be able to do it by seeking the services of a professional Quantity Surveyor. An expert Quantity Surveyor has the adequate information, knowledge, and capacity to identify depreciation deduction in a precise manner. Property investors find it difficult to secure exact depreciation deduction estimates for an investment property. And, above all, the ATO will not identify property investors’ figures in a tax return. When you hire a Quantity Surveyor, he will ensure maximum available deductions for you.

Role of Quantity Surveyor:

A Quantity Surveyor will carry out a site inspection to identify the exact number of plant and equipment items. Only then he will be able to provide these deductions. He will also be taking pictures, measurements, and crucial notes to boost the depreciation schedule. A Quantity Surveyor is the right person to find out the exact investment property depreciation schedule ATO. A Quantity Surveyor will also decide the exact share of common property that the property investor is eligible to claim. It will be based on a few factors. These factors will include size of unit, position within the development and also the view.  A Quantity Surveyor can do so just by having a glance at the development’s building plans.

Conclusion:

Investment in an apartment will secure more depreciation than investing in a house. It is interesting to note that any fee of a Quantity Surveyor is 100 percent tax deductible. So always seek a Quantity Surveyor’s consultation to boost your depreciation claims. When an investor will be audited by the ATO, his depreciation claim will get supported by proof of documents. If you find it tricky to calculate depreciation for residential rental property, seek guidance of an expert Quantity Surveyor.

10 Tax Deductions You Didn’t Know You Could Claim From the ATO

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Sometimes we may end up missing some of the vital tax deductions and enhance our tax liabilities as a consequence. One of the vital tax deductions is claiming depreciation on a rental property. Many individuals in Australia find it a highly profitable business to invest in rental property. It allows them to claim various deductions. Sometimes individuals may claim some deductions but they either tend to forget them or lack awareness about them. You must keep records to ensure you accomplish the best possible tax return.

We have prepared a list of top 10 tax deductions that you may claim from the ATO:

1. Sunscreen Protection:

Australian Taxation Office (ATO) accepts sun protection tax deductions for sunglasses when an employee gets exposed to UV rays. This expenditure has emerged common among outdoor workers that may include gardeners, electricians, or construction workers.

2. Shoes:

You will be eligible to claim for the expense of shoes that are an essential part of your office uniform. The uniform may be obligatory or non-obligatory depending on the organization you are working for. Work boots used by construction works are also tax-deductible. You may speak to Deppro Perth for more details on this kind of deduction.

3. Home office:

If you are a worker but working from home, you may claim a tax deduction for costs linked to those works. These are also known as home office running expenditures, phone and internet costs.

4. Handbags:

Handbags, being used for office work, will be eligible for a tax deduction. And, women will get several reasons to purchase a new handbag. ATO has recently confirmed that handbags can be claimed on tax provided they are used for office work.

5. Guard dogs:

ATO claims if you have an actual guard dog who offers security to your property, you may claim a deduction for it. As it is a little controversial, you may speak to Deppro QLD to eliminate your doubts.

6. Artworks:

When you purchase artwork for your office, you will be able to enjoy a tax deduction on this expenditure. Whether it is for the company’s cafeteria or meeting room, the write-off rules will be applicable to it.

7. Gym tools:

You may claim a tax deduction on equipment such as pool tables, ping-pong tables, etc. It is important that you have made their purchase to keep the workers healthy and fit.

8. Media subscriptions:

Products that are linked to your business such as publications or media subscriptions will be tax-deductible. It may also include magazines and journals.

9. Meals:

You will be allowed to claim tax deductions for overtime meals. It may include food and drink on overtime.

10. Bad debts:

If you repay your employer cash shortage or client bad debts, you will be entitled to claim a tax deduction for such amounts.

Conclusion:

According to Deppro tax depreciation, the above 10 expenses will be eligible to claim deductions that you have ignored for long. It will bring down your tax burden every year. Sometimes, many individuals lack the awareness of the type of expenses that may be claimed. When you operate your business from your house, you may claim a part of your home insurance. Car insurance will also be tax-deductible in case you use your personal car for work.