This Tax Bill Could Save Real Estate Investors Thousands—Here’s What You Need to Know

There’s a major tax shakeup brewing in Washington—and if you're a real estate investor, this one’s got your name on it.

Nicknamed the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBBA), this sweeping piece of legislation is packed with updates that could mean serious tax savings for those of us in the real estate game. From bonus depreciation to clean energy credits, this bill could quietly change the way you plan, invest, and protect your wealth in the coming years.

Let’s break it all down in simple terms—because being ahead of the curve here could put thousands (if not more) back in your pocket.

1. Bonus Depreciation Is Back—And Better Than Ever

Investors loved the days of 100% bonus depreciation: massive paper losses upfront, while the actual cash flowed in. The new bill proposes bringing that perk back, retroactively from January 1, 2025, and extending it through 2029—no gradual phase-out until 2027.

What this means: If you’re in syndications or using cost segregation, this is your chance to stack major write-offs early. That means big tax deferrals and higher after-tax returns. Now’s the time to plan those big purchases or property improvements.

2. Time to Max Out Roth and Retirement Accounts

Tax rates are historically low right now—but with our growing national debt, they’re almost certainly headed up.

What you can do: Load up your Roth accounts while you’re still in a low bracket. A self-directed Roth IRA lets your investments grow tax-free forever—and real estate plays really well in that space.

3. Double Down on Your HSA Strategy

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are the underdog of wealth building. You get:

• Tax-deductible contributions
• Tax-free growth
• Tax-free withdrawals (for qualified medical expenses)

Now, the OBBBA aims to double the contribution limits—to $8,600 (individual) and $17,100 (family), phasing out for higher-income earners.

Pro tip: If you’re eligible, max it out. It’s a triple-tax win with long-term upside.

4. Capitalize on Clean Energy Credits

The current 30% tax credit for solar, batteries, geothermal, and more is scheduled to end after 2025.

Your move: If your rentals need energy upgrades, don’t wait. Lock in the rebate and improve your property’s value in the process.

5. SALT Deduction Expansion Means a New Strategy

The bill raises the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap from $10,000 to $40,000—and permanently increases the standard deduction too.

Why this matters: High-tax state residents (looking at you, California and New York) should consider itemizing again. Start tracking those deductions now so you're ready to claim every dollar in 2025.

6. Estate and Gift Tax Exemptions Get a Boost

The current $13.99 million exemption was set to drop in 2026. Instead, the OBBBA proposes raising it to $15 million per person, indexed to inflation.

What to do: Wealthy investors—this is your window. Consider gifting assets or updating your estate plan while the exemption is high.

7. Meet With Your CPA After the Bill Passes

The bill still needs to get through the Senate—and changes could happen. But once it's final, a deep dive with your CPA is essential.

Key questions to ask: 

• Should you claim 100% bonus depreciation now or stagger it?
• Is cost segregation still worth it?
• Should you itemize in 2025 or stick with the standard deduction?
• Is now the time to invest in clean energy improvements?

Whether this bill passes exactly as written or with some Senate tweaks, its key provisions—bonus depreciation, SALT deductions, HSAs, and estate planning—are poised to change the investment landscape.

The opportunity here is huge.

But only for those who prepare.

Map out your game plan now, get your CPA on speed dial, and set yourself up to capitalize on this rare moment in tax history. Because when the rules change, the prepared win.

Need help mapping your real estate strategy around these upcoming tax shifts? I’m just a message away—let’s talk about how to put this bill to work for you.