Property Investors
Specialist accounting for property investors ??? rental income, deductions, negative gearing, and depreciation schedules.
Property Investor Services
Specialist accounting and tax services for property investors, based on ATO guidelines for residential rental properties.
What You Must Declare
You must declare all rental income in your tax return, including:
- Rent received from tenants
- Insurance payouts related to your rental property
- Rent-free periods or below-market rent arrangements
- Letting fees and booking platform income
Deductions You Can Claim
- Loan Interest: Interest on mortgages and loans used to purchase the property
- Repairs and Maintenance: Fixing wear and tear (not initial repairs or improvements)
- Property Management Fees: Real estate agent fees and property management costs
- Council Rates and Land Tax: Local government charges
- Insurance: Building, contents, and landlord insurance
- Depreciation: Decline in value of plant and equipment items, and structural works
- Travel Expenses: Only if directly related to inspecting, maintaining, or collecting rent (subject to restrictions)
Negative Gearing
If your rental expenses exceed your rental income, you have a net rental loss. This loss can be offset against other income (such as salary), reducing your overall tax. This is known as negative gearing.
Note: Recent changes to negative gearing announced in the 2026-27 Federal Budget do not apply in the 2025-26 tax return.
Capital Gains Tax
When you sell an investment property, capital gains tax (CGT) applies. The 50% CGT discount is available if you held the property for 12 months or more.