Real Estate Incentives That Fuel Growth
If you’re thinking about designing, constructing, or purchasing property in 2026, now is the time to start planning. Several key tax incentives that reward smart building and U.S.-based investment are set to expire or change soon and acting early could make a major difference in your return on investment (ROI).
Why planning ahead matters
Building or renovating isn’t just about square footage or aesthetics - it’s about strategy. The IRS offers a range of credits and deductions that can put real cash back in your pocket. But many of them are time-sensitive, and some require planning before construction begins.
Here are a few opportunities that are too valuable to overlook:
💡 Cost Segregation: Unlock Cash Faster
When you purchase, renovate, or build a property, not all parts of that building depreciate at the same rate. A cost segregation study helps you break down the components of your property — like lighting, flooring, or mechanical systems — into shorter depreciation lives.
That means you can accelerate depreciation and reduce your tax bill sooner, freeing up cash to reinvest in your business or next project.
🏗️ Section 179D & Energy-Efficient Buildings
Energy efficiency pays off. Businesses that invest in efficient lighting, HVAC, or building envelope upgrades can qualify for powerful deductions under Section 179D.
If you’re planning major improvements, do it before upcoming deadlines to capture full deductions for energy-efficient upgrades. Waiting too long could mean missing out on thousands in potential savings.
🌿 Section 45L: Credit for Energy-Efficient Homes
Builders and developers can claim the 45L Energy Efficient Home Credit
for qualifying residential and multifamily projects.
This credit provides a per-unit incentive for energy-efficient construction - but the window is closing. The current version of the credit applies to homes acquired before June 30, 2026, so now’s the time to design with efficiency in mind.
🏭 Manufacturing & U.S.-Based Growth Incentives
If your project supports U.S. manufacturing or production, additional tax credits may apply under Qualified Property Provisions (QPP). These incentives reward investment in domestic infrastructure — meaning if your facility helps create or support U.S. manufacturing jobs, you could harness new credits and accelerated deductions.
The bottom line
Smart building decisions start long before you pour the foundation. Planning your project now means you can:
-
Capture expiring credits and deductions
-
Optimize your design for maximum tax efficiency
-
Improve cash flow through accelerated depreciation
-
Avoid leaving money on the table
Let’s Build Your Strategy
Whether you’re a developer, business owner, or investor, the opportunities are out there, but timing and structure are everything.
