What Is Depreciation in Real Estate?

Answer

Depreciation is a non-cash tax deduction that lets owners write off a building’s cost over time (27.5 years for residential), reducing taxable income even when the property produces positive cash flow. Cost segregation and bonus depreciation can accelerate these deductions.

Depreciation is a major reason real estate is tax-efficient: passive investors often receive distributions that are partly or fully sheltered in early years. Deductions can be recaptured at sale, and a 1031 exchange can defer that, so coordinate with your tax advisor.

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