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The Global Insight

What happens to depreciation when you sell an investment property?

Author

Mia Phillips

Updated on March 15, 2026

Depreciation will play a role in the amount of taxes you’ll owe when you sell. Because depreciation expenses lower your cost basis in the property, they ultimately determine your gain or loss when you sell. If you hold the property for at least a year and sell it for a profit, you’ll pay long-term capital gains taxes.

Can you depreciate a used asset?

As discussed in the Quick Summary, you can’t depreciate property for personal use, inventory, or assets held for investment purposes. You can’t depreciate assets that don’t lose their value over time – or that you’re not currently making use of to produce income. These include: Investments like stocks and bonds.

Can you take depreciation on an investment property?

According to the IRS, you can depreciate a rental property if it meets all of these requirements: You own the property (you are considered to be the owner even if the property is subject to a debt). You use the property in your business or as an income-producing activity.

Can you depreciate second hand equipment?

“Being second hand does not in itself mean the depreciation of the asset is calculated differently from that of a new asset. Depreciation for second hand or new assets can be claimed in an income year, provided the asset purchased is installed ready for use in the income year.

How do you calculate depreciation on an investment property?

Your depreciation expense must be spread over 40 years at the rate of 2.5% per year. For example, if you spend $150,000 on a rental property renovation, you will be eligible to deduct $3,750 as a depreciation expense for the next forty years (i.e. 2.5% of the total expense per year).

When does depreciation take place on investment property?

That said, homes are significantly more expensive than traditional office supplies, which is why the entire cost of the property isn’t deducted in a single year. Investment property depreciation takes place over the predetermined useful life of a single-family home, which the I.R.S. has deemed to be 27.5 years.

What does it mean to depreciate property in Australia?

Property depreciation is the wear and tear on a building and the plant and equipment items within it. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) allows owners of income-producing properties to claim this depreciation as a deduction in their annual tax return, meaning they pay less tax.

What kind of securities are used in depreciation fund?

The amount, which is credited in the Depreciation Fund, is invested in gilt-edged securities. The interest on such investment is also invested in similar securities. The securities are readily convertible into cash. Investments are purchased every year.

Do you pay tax on depreciation when you sell property?

Because depreciation expenses lower your cost basis in the property, they ultimately determine your gain or loss when you sell. The IRS will demand that you pay a premium on that portion of your gain. If you hold the property for at least a year and sell it for a profit, you’ll pay long-term capital gains taxes.