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Real Estate Tax Strategy

Cost Segregation Studies

Accelerate your depreciation, maximize your cash flow. Our engineering-based cost segregation studies typically reclassify 20-40% of building costs into shorter depreciation categories, unlocking significant tax savings in year one.

Turn Your Building Into a Tax Advantage

Commercial buildings are typically depreciated over 27.5 years (residential rental) or 39 years (nonresidential). But not every component of your building should be depreciated that slowly. Electrical systems, plumbing, flooring, parking lots, landscaping, and specialized fixtures can all be reclassified into 5, 7, or 15-year categories.

A cost segregation study — performed by licensed engineers working with our tax team — identifies every component that qualifies for accelerated depreciation. The result is a dramatic front-loading of your tax deductions and significantly improved cash flow.

Example: $2M Commercial Building

Without cost seg: ~$51,000/year in depreciation. With cost seg: $200,000-$400,000 in year one. That is 4-8x the deduction in the first year alone.

Free Feasibility Analysis

Not every property benefits equally. We start with a complimentary analysis to determine if a study makes financial sense for your situation.

  • Property type and cost basis review
  • Estimated reclassification potential
  • Projected tax savings calculation
  • Return on investment analysis
  • No obligation to proceed
Request Free Analysis

How It Works

From feasibility to tax savings in four steps.

Step 1

Feasibility Review

We review your property details, cost basis, and current depreciation to determine if a study is worthwhile.

Step 2

On-Site Inspection

Our partner engineers conduct a detailed inspection of the property, documenting every component and system.

Step 3

Engineering Analysis

Components are classified into appropriate depreciation categories using IRS-compliant methodology and supporting documentation.

Step 4

Tax Integration

We incorporate the study results into your tax return, claim the accelerated deductions, and file any required accounting method changes.

Properties That Benefit Most

Cost segregation is most effective for properties with significant non-structural components.

Office Buildings

HVAC systems, electrical wiring, specialty lighting, and tenant improvements often qualify for shorter depreciation lives.

Retail & Restaurants

Kitchen equipment, decorative finishes, signage, and specialized plumbing are strong candidates for reclassification.

Apartment Complexes

Appliances, carpeting, cabinetry, and site improvements like parking and landscaping accelerate depreciation significantly.

Warehouses & Industrial

Loading docks, specialized flooring, and heavy-duty electrical systems are typically reclassifiable.

Medical & Dental

Specialized plumbing, gas systems, and built-in medical equipment create substantial reclassification opportunities.

Hotels & Hospitality

Furniture, fixtures, decorative elements, and specialized systems create some of the highest reclassification percentages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this service area.

Request a Free Feasibility Analysis

Find out how much you could save. Our team will review your property details and determine if a cost segregation study makes financial sense.

Book a Free ConsultationOr submit your details online