Allocating common deductions when you own multiple properties

[John Watson]

When I have a common expense such as buying a tool (i.e. a lawn mover) that I use for multiple properties, how do I allocate the deductible expense to the multiple properties I own? Based on net rental income? 

[Ashish Acharya]

Originally posted by @John Watson:

When I have a common expense such as buying a tool (i.e. a lawn mover) that I use for multiple properties, how do I allocate the deductible expense to the multiple properties I own? Based on net rental income? 

Any reasonable methods is fine.

So it can be based on the income, expenses, “actual usuage”. 

 In the most simple situation, at the end, all the activities are netted to determine your net loss or income so it’s not that important how you allocate.