Buy Duplex with Contract for Deed affects Depreciation?

[Robert Dodd]

CFDs are business big in MN, for sellers.  Avoid foreclosure if buyer defaults, makes sense. 

Lets say I buy a duplex by signing a contract for deed. Without being on title though, can an investor (me) rent that duplex out and still claim depreciation? Obviously want tax free income from REI. Am new to creative financing realm and feeling confused :-/

[John Woodrich]

@Jeff Schemmel

When you buy on CD - the contract should be recorded with the county so although you are not listed as the "owner" on the county site - you have an agreement that you are the owner if you abide by the contract terms.  So although it isn't always public information a CD holder in many instances is treated as the owner of the property.  I have a 5 and 6 unit that I own on CD.

@Robert Dodd Buying on CD doesn't change your ability to claim depreciation.  You can depreciate it.