Owning rental property is a great asset to have. However, the maintenance of tenants and houses can seem a bit trying at times. At times it may seem like being a landlord is much more difficult than it should be and that it is not worth the effort. However, being a landlord can be very profitable. That is why it is very important that landlords take full advantage of all of the tax deductions they are allowed to take for being rental property owners. Make owning rental property as profitable as possible.

Landlords should make sure that they get all of the benefits due to them. There are tons of different tax deductions available to rental property owners. Some of them are very obvious but others are not so straight forward. What you can claim and what you can not claim is often separated by a very thin line. Take advantage of deductions for rent, expenses paid by the renter , and other property items including equipment or machinery used on the property such as air compressors, large HVAC units, etc.

A Few Typical Deductible expenses:

1. Interest is the largest deductible expense for rental property owners. Mortgage payments, interest payments on credit cards that were used to pay for expenses having to do with the rental property can all be claimed on taxes.

2. After two years the cost of the rental property can be reclaimed through depreciation. Depreciation can be claimed for 27.5 years.

3. Another tax deduction rental owners can take is for repairs. Repairing, tilting the floor, correcting leaks or plastering and replacing windows that are cracked are eligible for tax deduction.

4. Landlords can take a tax deduction on any travel expenses associated with rental property. Landlords that have to fly to tend to their rental property can claim airfare and hotel costs. Driving to meet potential tenants or make repairs qualify as tax deductible expenses. Taking a trip that is a combination of business and pleasure and claiming it is totally doable.

5. In addition to rental property claims, landlords can also claim expenses associated with their own home. Having a home office may qualify for tax deductions. Landlords can deduct part of their own home office costs form their taxable income.

6. If fires destroy any of the rental property losses can be claimed. This deductible is based in part on how much insurance the home owner has.

7. Premiums paid for insurance on rental property can also be deducted. Fire, theft and flood insurance for rental property and landlord liability insurance can all be claimed.

8. Any fees paid to attorneys, accountants, property management companies, real estate investment advisors and other service professionals can be claimed. Any expenses you incur because of the rental property may be tax deductible.

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