A cost segregation study is a powerful tax strategy for real estate owners, allowing them to accelerate depreciation on their properties. By reclassifying specific building components into shorter-lived asset categories, investors can boost early-year deductions, reduce taxable income, and improve cash flow. Ideal for newly acquired, constructed, or renovated properties, this method offers significant savings when properly executed with professional guidance.

Short-term rental income is taxed differently based on guest stay length and services provided. Rentals with significant personal services and stays of 30 days or less are reported on Schedule C as active business income, subject to self-employment tax. Rentals with shorter stays and minimal services are reported on Schedule E but may still be non-passive. Understanding these rules helps hosts maximize deductions and avoid tax traps related to passive loss limitations.