Chicago Real Estate Investing Blog

By Mark Ainley

Are You Ready To Invest In Real Estate?

Real estate investing requires a lot of hard work and proper planning. It can be a phenomenal wealth-building strategy, but without the proper set of expectations and goals, it may not be the best fit for you. I often hear people talk about real estate as this sure-thing money ma...

By Mark Ainley

How Tom Turned His 200K into Millions

The Tom I mention here is my great podcast co-host, Tom Shallcross—a lifelong northwest sider. Tom was born and raised in Dunning, and today, he still resides there with his wife and 4 children. He's a few minutes away from where he grew up, but thanks to his real estat...

By Mark Ainley

The Beginner's Guide To Identifying Quality Cost Segregation Studies

How to Identify a quality cost segregation study in ChicagoIf you're looking for cost segregation studies, you might feel intimidated. Basically, there are plenty of options out there, some of which include computer models, alternatives, and workoutarounds accompanied by...

By Mark Ainley

Become A Better Client To Your CPA

In a recent article, I discussed all the ways your CPA can add value to you. Now, let’s turn the tables around back on you. People like to do business with people they know, like, and trust. Here are four tips for how you can be an ideal client for your CPA.Be OrganizedBein...

By Mark Ainley

How Cost Segregation Can Lower Your Property Tax Bill

Do you own any stocks that you're thinking about selling? Are you also an owner of a commercial property? If so, it just might be time to consider cost segregation. Cost segregation could lower your taxable income.This will make your capital gain less when you sell stock and ...

By Mark Ainley

Cut Your Rehab Costs Through Illinois and Chicago Enterprise Zones

Want to cut down on your rehab costs? Then familiarize yourself with Illinois’s Eneterprise Zone Program to minimize material costs. Straight from the state’s website, the “Illinois Enterprise Zone Program is designed to stimulate economic growth and neighborhoo...

By Mark Ainley

When You Need Tax Advisory Services (And When You Don’t)

During an investor’s journey, there are many times when professional assistance is required. One of the most common questions after explaining our services is, “Do I need tax advisory?”. The answer, as with many things in this world, is “It depends”....

By Mark Ainley

The Effect Of Cost Segregation On Recapture

While there's a relationship between cost segregation and recapture, the cause and effect aren't as closely linked as you might think. For example, if you're not planning to hold on to your property for at least 3-5 years, accelerated depreciation may be of little ben...

By Mark Ainley

Switching Accountants? Two Tips To Ensure Accuracy For Your Tax Return

From time to time, we outgrow our current accountant. At that point, it is always wise to switch to another accountant that is best suited for your needs. When this occurs, you provide the new accountant your prior year tax return. It is absolutely crucial you provide them with t...

By Mark Ainley

Working With Your Tax Advisor, Develop Strategies To Reduce Your Taxes

If you want to maximize the benefits of investing in real estate, craft a proactive strategy for maximizing tax savings and other benefits for your business. Here, I explore each component of the tax return, starting with the federal portion.Overall Outlook on Tax Rates Base...

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