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Dreaming about a new kitchen by looking in glossy magazines that showcase completed kitchens with photos of homeowners caught in blurred mid-flight poses between appliances are a dime-a-dozen.
Many property investors are unclear on what constitutes a repair to their investment and what is classed as an improvement.
“It is important for investors to understand the difference between a repair and an improvement. Each is treated in a totally different manner for
taxation purposes and can have long-term ramifications should you get it wrong,” explained Madeleine Hicks of LJ Hooker Everton Park.
If the work you are undertaking involves fixing up damage caused by wear and tear, the expense is likely to be a repair and is tax deductible.
However, when you are replacing old materials with new and enhancing the property beyond its original state, the work is more likely to be considered an improvement and will therefore be added to the cost of your property, representing a depreciable asset.
It is advisable to seek professional accounting advice when undertaking such projects particularly when there are significant expenses to the project. These can often trigger the eye of the ATO.
“Using an experienced building designer can save you thousands of dollars”, says Michael King of Nova Design Group Pty Ltd.

Article By:
J. Petrascu
January 2012