determining land versus building proportions for use in depreciation on rental house

Jan 27, 2007 1 Replies

Hello,



I hope this is the correct place to post.



My wife and I started renting out our house last year (2006). We purchased the house in 2002. I have the county assessments for 2004-2007. For 2004 - 2006, the breakdown was roughly 40% Buildings and 60% land. Then with the 2007 assessment, the county changed their assessments to be 24 % Buildings and 76% land. My questions are:



Which ratio do I use to get the building amount, for determining my allowable depreciation on my tax return? Do I need to get the 2002 numbers, or do I use the 40/60 split from 2006? If I use the 2006, do i need to change it come 2007 to reflect the new assessments? If I use the 40%, my expenses will be larger and will thus offset my gain for the years I am renting it, but will additionally affect my gain (via the basis) when it comes time to sell? What is the correct course of action.



I would really appreciate some assistance.



Thanks!



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You need your 2002 figures. It's the lower of cost basis or fair market value that you use. Also you don't change the figure once you start depreciation for the 27.5 years and the land is never depreciated. You only add to it later for improvements, etc. which each begin a new depreciation cycle.

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