As a real estate agent, you work independently, managing your own business and earning income through commissions. However, with great independence comes greater responsibilities, particularly when it comes to taxes. You must understand what tax deductions you're eligible for. This is so you can maximize your earnings and avoid overpaying in taxes. In 2022, 16 million people overpaid taxes amounting to around $1,000.

In this blog post, we'll share the most significant tax deductions for real estate agents. Keep reading to discover how to save money on taxes and maximize your earnings.

The importance of tax deductions for real estate agents

Tax deductions can be a game-changer when it comes to real estate agents’ annual tax liability. Deductions help reduce the amount of taxable income, which means lower taxes. This is why real estate agents must be aware of what expenses are deductible. Plus, they must keep accurate records of these expenses throughout the year.

As a real estate agent, you are essentially running your own business. Meaning, you can deduct various expenses related to your business operations. These deductions can be claimed on your tax return. And this can add up to significant savings in taxes.

Home office deductions for real estate agents

Real estate agents often work from home, at least part of the time, as they need a quiet and comfortable workspace to effectively communicate with clients and perform their job responsibilities. Because of this, they are eligible for home office deductions. This deduction allows real estate agents to deduct a portion of their housing expenses. These include rent or mortgage interest, property taxes, and utility bills. But of course, their home office should meet the IRS requirements.

So how can you qualify for home office deductions? Real estate agents must have a dedicated space in their home that is used exclusively for business purposes. This space can be a room, a portion of a room, or even a separate structure on their property. The home office must also be the primary location where the real estate agent conducts their business. It must be regularly and exclusively used for business purposes.

Real estate agents who choose to take advantage of the home office deduction must keep accurate records of their home office expenses. They may also deduct a portion of their home maintenance and repair expenses. Additionally, they may deduct depreciation on the portion of their home that’s used for business purposes.

Real estate agents should take advantage of the home office deduction. Consequently, this can result in significant tax savings. However, it’s advisable to consult with a tax professional before claiming any deductions. This is so you can avoid running afoul of IRS regulations. With proper planning and documentation, real estate agents can maximize their tax savings and they can keep more of their hard-earned income.

Travel and transportation deductions for real estate agents

Real estate agents are known for their mobility, constantly traveling between properties and appointments. Fortunately, this travel can be deducted from their taxes. Any expenses incurred while traveling between clients’ properties or attending meetings with clients can be deducted as a business expense. This includes items like fuel costs, car rental fees, and public transit fares. Beyond these expenses, real estate agents can also deduct costs related to parking and tolls.

The driving distance between your principal place of work and your clients’ properties is also important to keep in mind. If the driving distance is substantial, the IRS may allow you to write off the expense of traveling to those locations. As well, if you must travel overnight for work, a portion of your hotel and meal expenses may also be deducted. It is important to keep detailed records of all expenditures. This is so you can receive the fullest deduction possible.

Real estate agents may also be able to write off home office expenses. Let’s say you have a dedicated workspace in your home. Then you can deduct relevant office-related expenses such as rent, utilities, and internet costs. Make sure to speak with a tax professional when claiming deductions to ensure you’re following all legal requirements.

Note that personal expenses can’t be deducted. This covers car payments or mortgages. However, expenses used exclusively for business purposes can be written off. Even items that are typically considered personal, such as a cell phone plan, can be partially written off if the device is also used for business purposes. As such, it’s important to keep careful track of your work-related expenses throughout the year to maximize your deductions and save money come tax season.

Marketing and advertising deductions for real estate agents

Real estate agents need to market and advertise themselves to attract new clients, and thankfully these activities are tax deductible. Deductible marketing and advertising expenses may include the cost of creating and promoting a website. Business cards, flyers, billboard ads, signposts, and social media ads are also included. Marketing includes expenses related to open house showings and printed sales material. Creative expenses, such as graphic and website design, copywriting, and photography, can also be included as tax deductions.

Networking is a key aspect of a real estate agent's career, and the costs incurred while attending events such as conferences, seminars, and workshops for business purposes are also fully eligible for a tax deduction. Besides networking events, some agents arrange their own community events, like charity fundraisers and block parties. The costs of both organizing this type of event, as well as promotional materials, are also tax deductible. Additionally, this includes any costs incurred while advertising the event, such as ads in local newspapers, websites, or social media sites.

Real estate agents must also keep track of their technology-related expenses. This can include purchasing or leasing office equipment such as computers, tablets, and phones. Software and subscription costs are also deductible. Relevant tax deductions include expenses for customer relationship management (CRM) software or a transaction management system, print and hardware supplies, and web hosting costs. Taxpayers can also deduct the cost of any subscriptions to professional industry publications or membership fees for professional organizations.

Some real estate agents offer gifts or incentives to clients as part of their marketing strategy. For example, some agents offer awards or referrals to their clients in order to build loyalty and generate repeat business. Other agents offer small gifts like housewarming plants or even catered treats on the day of closing. These gifts can also be classified as tax deductions, as long as they are not lavish and are given to show appreciation for their business.

Education and licensing deductions for real estate agents

Real estate agents have to maintain certain qualifications and licenses to perform their duties legally. These requirements bring expenses that can pile up, but fortunately, they may be eligible for tax deductions. Education and licensing deductions are important for real estate agents as they can claim their expenses for courses or exams required for them to be able to perform their professional duties. Agents can deduct up to $2,000 in expenses during the tax year.

The requirements for maintaining professional licenses may vary from state to state. Many state laws require real estate agents to complete a certain number of educational hours each year. These courses can range from basic to advanced levels and allow real estate agents to polish their skills and remain updated with changes in laws and regulations. Agents can claim course fees along with other related expenses such as travel, meals, and lodging.

Licensing fees are also eligible for tax deductions. These fees are essential for real estate agents to keep their licenses active and maintain their statuses. Licensing fees may vary by state and agent. To ensure that they get the best possible deductions specifically relating to licensing and education, real estate agents should keep a record of all the expenses and fees they have paid, either in electronic or hard-copy format.

To claim deductions, agents must maintain accurate records of exams, courses, fees, and travel expenses. The IRS is always updating its rules and thresholds, and real estate agents need to stay informed with the latest information to maximize their deductions. By doing so, they could reduce their tax liabilities significantly while continuing to improve their professional skills.

Miscellaneous deductions for real estate agents – don't miss out!

Real estate agents incur many other expenses besides the ones mentioned in the previous sections. These miscellaneous expenses can be significant and should not be overlooked. 

Memberships

One such expense is the cost of professional memberships. This may include dues paid to professional organizations, such as the National Association of Realtors (NAR) or state associations. These fees are deductible and can add up to substantial savings.

Security system

Another deduction that real estate agents should consider is the cost of a home security system. Let’s say agents work from home or use their home as their primary office. They can then deduct the cost of a security system that is directly related to their business. Security systems are important for real estate agents who have clients visiting their homes or offices for meetings, document signing, or consultations.

Professional development

Real estate agents attend conferences, workshops, or other events for professional development purposes. They can deduct their expenses related to travel, lodging, and meals. This deduction is available if the event is considered a necessary part of the agent's business. It’s also available if the agent engages in business activities while attending the event. Keep in mind that travel expenses related to personal vacations or events that are not considered necessary for business are not deductible.

Technology

Real estate agents should also keep track of their technology-related expenses, such as computer equipment, software, and internet fees. These expenses are deductible if they are considered necessary and ordinary business expenses. Having reliable technology is fundamental for real estate agents to run their businesses successfully, so agents should not overlook these deductions.

Grow your real estate business online

With tax deductions, real estate agents can lower their taxes and maximize their profit. But that’s not the only way you can maximize your earnings. One key way to increase your revenue and scale your real estate business is by strengthening your online presence. And B12 provides just the solution.

B12 enables you to get a website built by AI and refined by expert designers, copywriters, and SEO specialists that helps you sell your expertise. Make DIY changes any time you want or request updates from our expert time while you're busy working with clients. Launch in 30 days or less with client-engaging tools like scheduling and payments. Try B12 today!