I used to advise investors to buy property built in 1986.
Why?
Because residential properties built between July 18 1985 and September 15 1987 used to attract a 4% building depreciation rate over a 25-year life span.
Everything built since then attracts a 2.5% rate over a 40-year life span.
So the net result of purchasing properties in this odd two year period was increased tax deductions – and therefore cash flow – at a faster rate.
But as of September this year, the loophole effectively closed.
That means any properties built before September 1987 incur NO building allowance.
However, if you buy a property where construction commenced in 1988, you still have 16 years to depreciate the building.
That's over 40% of the original construction cost left for you to claim – I know which one I prefer!
So if you’re in the market for an investment property - it’s worth knowing the date that construction commenced – especially if it’s around the mid to late 80s. It could make quite a difference.
The Australian Taxation Office has identified Quantity Surveyors as appropriately qualified to determine the original construction cost, where the costs are unknown.
Tyron Hyde is a director of quantity surveying firm Washington Brown. For more QS Corner tips and information on property depreciation including a FREE online tax depreciation calculator, visit www.washingtonbrown.com.au
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Disclaimer: while due care is taken, the viewpoints expressed by contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Your Investment Property.
