Cost Segregation Studies

Cost Segregation is a commonly used strategic tax planning tool that allows companies and individuals who have constructed, purchased, expanded or remodeled any kind of real estate to increase cash flow by accelerating depreciation deductions and deferring federal and state income taxes. Our studies range in size from 10,000 to over one million square feet, resulting in the deferral of hundreds of millions in taxes.

When a property is purchased, not only does it include a building structure, but it also includes all of its interior and exterior components. On average, 20% to 40% of those components fall into tax categories that can be written off much quicker than the building structure. A Cost Segregation study dissects the construction cost or purchase price of the property that would otherwise be depreciated over 27 ½ or 39 years. The primary goal of a Cost Segregation study is to identify all property-related costs that can be depreciated over 5, 7 and 15 years. For example, certain electrical outlets that are dedicated to equipment such as appliances or computers should be depreciated over 5 years.

What is Involved in a Cost Segregation Study?
A quality Cost Segregation study evaluates all information, including available records, inspections, and interviews, and presents the findings in a clear, well-documented format. Our process for conducting a detailed Cost Segregation includes a review of any available cost detail for the property, a review of any available blue prints and a physical inspection of the property. If none of this information is available, a Cost Segregation study can still be performed by estimating component values on site.

When should a Cost Segregation study be conducted?
A Cost Segregation study can be completed any time after the purchase, remodel or construction of a property. However, the optimum time for a study for new owners is during the year a building is constructed, purchased or remodeled. For investors who are in the planning phases of construction or remodeling, the best time to consider a Cost Segregation study is before the infrastructure of the building is set.