Slow down...don't rush...relax. You don't need to incorporate a company just to buy a rental property.
In the world of social media, it's easy to get overwhelmed with countless opinions and advice on buying rental properties and incorporating companies. As young working professionals, it's important to understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution or tax loophole when it comes to investing in rental properties. Everyone's financial situation is unique, and the best approach for one person might not work for another. In this blog article, we'll break down the pros and cons of buying a rental property with an incorporated company, debunk some common misconceptions, and do something that you won't get from a TikTok; help you make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances.
Questions to Consider:
- Annual Income: How much income do you currently earn per year? Your income level can significantly impact your tax bracket and the potential tax benefits of owning a rental property through a corporation.
- Property Type: Are you planning to buy a rental property or a family home? Different tax implications and financing options may apply depending on the type of property you're purchasing.
- Down Payment: How much have you saved up for a down payment? The size of your down payment will influence the mortgage financing options available to you and might affect the decision to incorporate or not.
- First-Time Home Buyer Programs: Are you eligible for and planning to use the RRSP Home Buyers' Plan or the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive? These programs have specific rules and regulations that could impact your overall investment strategy.
- Professional Fees: How much would you expect to pay for lawyer and CPA fees? Incorporating a company involves additional costs, and you'll need to weigh these expenses against the potential benefits.
- Tax Savings: How much tax would you truly save by incorporating? This will depend on various factors, including your income level, property type, and the tax structure of your incorporated company.
Pros and Cons of Buying a Rental Property with an Incorporated Company:
Pros:
- Limited Liability: Incorporating a company to buy a rental property provides limited liability protection, which means your personal assets are safeguarded from any potential lawsuits or claims against the property.
- Income Splitting: Incorporating your rental property business allows for income splitting with family members. By issuing shares to family members in lower tax brackets, you can potentially reduce your overall tax liability.
Cons:
- Initial Setup and Lawyer/CPA Fees: Incorporating a company involves legal and accounting fees, as well as ongoing costs to maintain the corporation, such as annual filings, financial statement preparation, and tax filings.
- Mortgage Financing: Banks and lenders may require higher down payments or charge higher interest rates for properties owned by corporations, as they are considered riskier than personal ownership.
- Tax Implications: Canadian tax law generally considers rental income passive, unless the company has 5 or more full-time employees. Passive income is taxed upfront at a much higher rate than active business income, which means that the tax deferral benefits often associated with corporations may not apply in this situation.
Conclusion:
When it comes to investing in rental properties, it's essential to take a customized approach that considers your unique financial situation and goals. By answering the questions outlined above and weighing the pros and cons of incorporating, you'll gain a better understanding of whether buying a rental property with an incorporated company is the right choice for you.
However, given the complexity of tax and real estate regulations, we strongly recommend engaging a CPA to help guide you through your options and provide a detailed analysis based on your specific circumstances. With professional guidance, you can confidently navigate the world of real estate investment and make decisions that are best suited to your financial objectives.
