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Nancy R.
I have used James Larsen as my CPA for many years and am confident in his work ethic and tax knowledge.
Cost Segregation = Accelerated Depreciation
A cost segregation study is a process used for income tax purposes that examines the various components of a property, such as plumbing fixtures, carpeting, and sidewalks, which are typically part of a building acquisition or development. Instead of depreciating these components over the same useful life as the entire building (27.5 or 39 years), the study categorizes them separately. This allows property owners and investors to benefit from an accelerated depreciation timeline for certain building elements, potentially resulting in tax savings.
The 3-Step Process is Simple, Intentionally.
STEP ONE
We’ll perform an evaluation as to whether the tax savings will substantially outweigh the costs, including impacts on timing of cash flows
STEP TWO
If it makes sense, our Cost Seg team will kick off the study and will keep you in the loop at each stage of the process
STEP THREE
We’ll claim the accelerated deductions on your behalf in the most tax-advantaged manner possible
Small firms don't do Cost Segs. Big firms charge too much.
Our cost segregation team uses a lean approach that takes advantage of cost efficiencies of batching site visits when engineers are needed on the ground and, when not needed, we deploy other non-engineer professionals who live near the property to perform site visits guided by a remote engineer.
Maximize ROI with a Cost Segregation Study
A cost segregation study isn’t just about accelerating depreciation—it’s about unlocking hidden cash flow and maximizing the return on your real estate investment. By reclassifying building components into shorter depreciation schedules, you can significantly reduce current tax liability, free up working capital, and reinvest those savings back into your business or portfolio.
For many property owners, the ROI of a cost segregation study is immediate, with tax savings often exceeding the cost of the study in the first year alone. Whether you own commercial real estate, multifamily properties, or short-term rentals, this strategy allows you to:
- Increase after-tax cash flow in the early years of ownership
- Accelerate depreciation deductions to offset taxable income
- Reinvest savings into growth opportunities or debt reduction
- Enhance overall property ROI without changing operations
At Dark Horse CPAs, our team specializes in tax strategies like cost segregation that deliver measurable results. We help you understand the true impact on your bottom line so you can make confident, tax-smart decisions.
Your tax pro didn’t suggest doing a cost seg study because you didn’t ask
Most tax pros have very little experience with cost segregation studies and don’t know reputable cost seg firms to refer clients to, assuming they both knew when it would make sense for a client and were capable of delivering the planning advice to the client. Too many times, this tax planning opportunity is glossed over or entirely ignored.
Which Type of Property Qualifies?
Cost segregation can be done for buildings purchased or built since 1986, and that includes renovations. It’s especially beneficial for large-scale property developers and investors. You don’t need to be big to benefit, though. Cost segregation applies to many types of properties, including, but not limited to:
Your Cost Segregation Experts
Are You Ready?
There is a lot to unpack when it comes to each individual's unique tax planning strategies. If you would like to see if we can help, reach out today.
Jude T.
After years of feeling underwhelmed by every tax professional I worked with, we finally found Chris Ries at Dark Horse. We did a wide search for a CPA who could handle both our business and personal needs. Chris stood out from the start. He's not just deeply knowledgeable about tax law - he's genuinely thoughtful and strategic in how he applies it to your specific situation. What truly sets Chris apart is how responsive and engaged he is throughout the entire year. Our strategy sessions allowed us to get ahead of issues long before tax season, which made the whole process significantly smoother and less stressful.
Kyle T.
With our prior accountant we didn't feel we were receiving adequate tax guidance and felt we were always paying more than our fair share of taxes. We have been very pleased with the service we have received with Adam Ripperdan. He has taken the time to review in detail our current situation and upcoming plans. With that information he has helped us create tax strategies for our businesses, investments, and personal taxes that not only help us save on taxes but also helps us plan for the future. I highly recommend Dark Horse CPAs.
David H.
Chris is exceptional. He is far more professional, clear in his communication, and knowledgeable than any CPA I’ve worked with. He has expertly managed both my personal and business tax needs and consistently goes above and beyond—helping me make informed, strategic decisions well in advance of future tax filings. I cannot recommend him highly enough.
Johnny E.
Chris with Dark Horse is great! He provides so much information and helps me learn about my taxes, not just filing them. He is very passionate about his work and I appreciate the work he does for my company!
John T.
Provides great service. Very professional. Very responsive to questions and inquiries. Very punctual, I would highly recommend their services.
Nancy R.
I have used James Larsen as my CPA for many years and am confident in his work ethic and tax knowledge.
Jude T.
After years of feeling underwhelmed by every tax professional I worked with, we finally found Chris Ries at Dark Horse. We did a wide search for a CPA who could handle both our business and personal needs. Chris stood out from the start. He's not just deeply knowledgeable about tax law - he's genuinely thoughtful and strategic in how he applies it to your specific situation. What truly sets Chris apart is how responsive and engaged he is throughout the entire year. Our strategy sessions allowed us to get ahead of issues long before tax season, which made the whole process significantly smoother and less stressful.
Kyle T.
With our prior accountant we didn't feel we were receiving adequate tax guidance and felt we were always paying more than our fair share of taxes. We have been very pleased with the service we have received with Adam Ripperdan. He has taken the time to review in detail our current situation and upcoming plans. With that information he has helped us create tax strategies for our businesses, investments, and personal taxes that not only help us save on taxes but also helps us plan for the future. I highly recommend Dark Horse CPAs.
David H.
Chris is exceptional. He is far more professional, clear in his communication, and knowledgeable than any CPA I’ve worked with. He has expertly managed both my personal and business tax needs and consistently goes above and beyond—helping me make informed, strategic decisions well in advance of future tax filings. I cannot recommend him highly enough.
Johnny E.
Chris with Dark Horse is great! He provides so much information and helps me learn about my taxes, not just filing them. He is very passionate about his work and I appreciate the work he does for my company!
John T.
Provides great service. Very professional. Very responsive to questions and inquiries. Very punctual, I would highly recommend their services.
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