logo

What Is A Commercial Real Estate Depreciation

What Is A Commercial Real Estate Depreciation
by Kevyn Pitts - September 16, 2021

Commercial real estate depreciation is a significant tax advantage available to qualified commercial real estate owners. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) permits eligible owners of commercial real estate investments to decrease their tax bill by depreciating the value of their property over a predetermined period of time, similar to how ordinary business tax deductions work. Depreciation is just as significant to many real estate investors as the cash flow and potential increase in market value that a property generates. Read the complete blog to know what is commercial real estate depreciation and its benefits.

Benefits Of Commercial Real Estate Depreciation

Despite the fact that the name "depreciation" implies a loss, it is actually a significant gain for commercial real estate investors and a major reason why individuals invest in real estate. Here's an illustration of how the straight-line depreciation method for commercial property works:

  • The building is barely worth $1 million.
  • $1 million / 39 years = $25,641 annual depreciation deduction
  • $225,000 in taxable revenue – $25,641 in depreciation expense = $199,359

Not only has the investor's taxable income been decreased, but the tax rate has also changed from 32 % to 24% percent as a result of commercial real estate depreciation.

Examples Of Commercial Real Estate Depreciation

The term "commercial real estate" refers to physical structures that represent a variety of industries. Given below are a few examples of commercial real estate properties:

  • Supermarket
  • Self-storage
  • Motels
  • Hotels
  • Warehouses
  • Restaurants
  • Hospitals
  • Casinos

Properties That Can Be Depreciated

Given below are the properties that can be depreciated:

  • The rental property was put into service, after 1986
  • Residential income property, such as a duplex or triplex, and multifamily property, such as a duplex or triplex (depreciated over 27.5 years)
  • Commercial real estate that is either owner-occupied or income-producing (39 years)

If you are also interested in becoming a commercial real estate developer, we have got you covered. Take a look at the complete guide on how to become a commercial real estate developer with Prudential Cal.

MOST RECENT
Pest Issues in Rental Properties and Their Impact on Property Value
Pest Issues in Rental Properties and Their Impact on Property Value
Pest problems in rental properties aren’t just an inconvenience, they’re a financial, legal, and reputational risk. From tenant complaints to long-term damage and lost property value, how pests are handled can directly impact the performance of a rental asset. Whether ...
How to Warm Up Homeowners Before Asking for a Listing
How to Warm Up Homeowners Before Asking for a Listing
Getting a homeowner to agree to list their property doesn’t happen instantly. Most homeowners need time to build trust and see the value in working with you before committing. Jumping straight into a listing pitch can make them hesitant or ...
Interior Design Trends to Keep in Mind Going Into 2026
Interior Design Trends to Keep in Mind Going Into 2026
Whether you’re an experienced designer or simply trying to get more value out of your living space, there can be a lot of value in remodeling and decorating a home. You get the chance to put your own tastes into ...
5 Smart Ways to Compete in Seattle’s Housing Market
Do you want to outbid the competition, without losing your mind (or your savings)? Seattle’s housing arena is famously fierce. With limited inventory, rising prices, and homes flying off the market within days (sometimeshours), it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But ...
Holiday Home Decorating Tips to Attract Houston Buyers
Holiday Home Decorating Tips to Attract Houston Buyers
As the holiday season approaches, the Houston real estate market often sees a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. While some may argue that it’s not the best time to sell a home, the festive atmosphere can actually work in ...
1 2 3 87
logo
Prudential Cal strives to provide the most detailed information about the real estate industry. We assist people in making the best decisions possible by offering unique insights into the global real estate market and advice for both homebuyers and sellers.
© 2026 Prudential Cal. All Rights Reserved.