Cost Segregation Analysis for a Residential Property in Tahoe Vista, California

Narrative

In 2024, the owners of a two-story residential property in Tahoe Vista, California engaged in strategic tax planning to enhance their investment. Originally constructed in 1981, this single-family home was purchased for $1,800,000 with a land value of $318,600 and a depreciable basis of $1,481,400.

The property features modern amenities including a comprehensive HVAC system, custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, and various electrical and plumbing systems. The exterior includes wood siding, asphalt shingle roofing, and decorative elements. Interior finishes comprise ceramic tile, carpeting, and custom lighting fixtures.

Objective

The primary goal of the cost segregation study was to identify and reclassify building components into shorter depreciation life categories, thereby accelerating depreciation deductions and optimizing tax benefits for the property owners.

Methodology

ETS employed a detailed, engineering-based approach, which included:

1. Physical Inspection: conducting a thorough site visit to identify and photograph the property's components
2. Document Review: examining architectural plans, construction documents and accounting records
3. Cost Analysis: applying engineering principles to allocate costs to specific asset classifications
4. Depreciation Calculation: calculating depreciation using IRS-accepted methods such as the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS)

Asset Allocation

5-Year Class Life

Total Depreciation Allocation: $284,867.21 Percentage of Total Depreciable Basis: 19.23%

5-year class life assets identified in this study include:

• Kitchen appliances and fixtures
• Carpeting and flooring
• Custom cabinetry
• Electrical fixtures and systems
• Security and communication systems

15-Year Class Life

Total Depreciation Allocation: $84,741.37 Percentage of Total Depreciable Basis: 5.72%

15-year class life assets identified in this study include:

• Land improvements
• Paving and landscaping
• Exterior lighting
• Site utilities

39-Year Class Life

Total Depreciation Allocation: $1,111,791.42 Percentage of Total Depreciable Basis: 75.05%

39-year class life assets identified in this study include:

• Building structure
• HVAC systems
• Plumbing systems
• Basic electrical
• Roof structure

Class Life Details:

Summary

The cost segregation study identified significant opportunities for accelerated depreciation. The analysis resulted in reclassifying approximately 24.95% of the property's depreciable basis into shorter recovery periods. This reclassification generated first-year accumulated depreciation of $254,564.03, compared to only $11,078.85 under standard depreciation – a difference of $243,485.18 in additional first-year depreciation.