I have two rental properties (duplexes), is an LLC my next move?

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Sugar Land, TX · Member since 2014 · 6 posts · 1 vote
12y
Listen to podcast #49 here on BP. Has a lot of good tax tips from a CPA who is also an investor. Generally speaking an LLC isn't going to provide tax benefits since the income passes through to your personal tax return. What specifically are you trying to accomplish?
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  • Investor · Rochestser, NY · Member since 2014 · 84 posts · 13 votes
    12y

    I actually have the same question. I am in the process of landing my 3rd investment propety.

  • Housatonic, MA · Member since 2014 · 11 posts · 0 votes
    12y
    I know I need to incorporate, but not sure which way makes the most sense.
  • Sugar Land, TX · Member since 2014 · 6 posts · 1 vote
    12y
    Listen to podcast #49 here on BP. Has a lot of good tax tips from a CPA who is also an investor. Generally speaking an LLC isn't going to provide tax benefits since the income passes through to your personal tax return. What specifically are you trying to accomplish?
  • Housatonic, MA · Member since 2014 · 11 posts · 0 votes
    12y
    I want maximize the tax value of my properties as early as possible and am exploring how to structure my RE investing venture to do so. Thanks for the info!
  • Commercial Real Estate Agent · Sudbury, MA · Member since 2014 · 118 posts · 25 votes
    12y

    Income is offset by all expenses, including interest and property tax, along with depreciation. Gains are delayed until sale of swap via 1031 exchange.

    If you want long term tax avoidance, consider a self directed Roth IRA, and it won't be taxed at all.

  • Solo 401k Expert · Anaheim Hills, CA · Member since 2012 · 18k+ posts · 6k+ votes
    12y

    @Frank M.

    just to clarify: while self-directed Roth IRA is a great way to invest tax-free, @Morgan Burns would not be able to transfer his existing rental properties into it - that would be prohibited transaction.

    Maximum annual contributions for Roth IRA are only $6,500 so it would take a while to have sizable amount in there to invest. Also, if your income limit is over certain threshold - you would not be allowed to contribute into Roth IRA. An alternative to that would be self directed Roth Solo 401k, which has much larger contribution limit up to $23,000 per year for each spouse and no restriction on the income for contributions.

  • Solo 401k Expert · Anaheim Hills, CA · Member since 2012 · 18k+ posts · 6k+ votes
    12y

    I agree with @Dusty Corning that LLC would not provide additional tax benefits. @Morgan Burns the main reason for moving your duplexes into an LLC is asset protection, not minimizing taxes.

    Do you work with knowledgeable accountant on your tax strategy? Good CPA will not simply do your taxes at the end of the year, but will work with you during the year to help you plan for the tax season and come up with the best strategy to minimize your taxes when that time comes. Also make sure that CPA that you work with also owns investment properties. If he doesn't - that means that he doesn't fully understand the benefits for owning investment property (otherwise he would own some RE).

    @Steven Hamilton II is very active here on BP and might be able to help you.

  • Commercial Real Estate Agent · Sudbury, MA · Member since 2014 · 118 posts · 25 votes
    12y
    Originally posted by @Dmitriy Fomichenko:
    @Frank M.

    just to clarify: while self-directed Roth IRA is a great way to invest tax-free, @Morgan Burns would not be able to transfer his existing rental properties into it - that would be prohibited transaction.

    right, I understand that. I was just suggesting the alternative that actually offers a different tax situation. An LLC or corporation isn't going to save him on his taxes. The IRA is a suggestion for his next deal, and of course, he needs a decent balance to begin with.

  • Housatonic, MA · Member since 2014 · 11 posts · 0 votes
    12y
    Wow, very helpful info! My new CPA is a real estate investor, I made sure of it. Brand new relationship is all. So LLC sounds like the right move for asset protection, but is it the best option for asset protection?
  • Real Estate Coach · Venice Beach, CA · Member since 2012 · 6k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    12y

    No it's not necessarily. Check this out, and be sure to read the comments...those are even more helpful-

    http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/08/17/rental-properties-llc/

  • Housatonic, MA · Member since 2014 · 11 posts · 0 votes
    12y
    Dusty Corning thanks for the ep #49 suggestion. Very helpful! ??
  • Housatonic, MA · Member since 2014 · 11 posts · 0 votes
    12y
    Question mark were unintended
  • Accountant, Enrolled Agent · Grayslake, IL · Member since 2011 · 5k+ posts · 2k+ votes
    12y

    An LLC is not required. In fact it may be a hindrance while trying to finance property.

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