As we move into the final stretch of the year, it’s time for every business owner to take a closer look at their policies and documentation for company-provided vehicles and employee reimbursements.
Real Estate Tax Changes You Need to Know
Real Estate Tax Changes You Need to Know
By Brian Wheeler
We’ve been taking on more clients with similar questions about the latest real-estate tax changes.So here’s a simple breakdown of what matters right now, and what you should be thinking about before you make any moves.
1. 1031 Exchange Tightening
The IRS is getting pickier on what qualifies, especially around timelines and what counts as “like-kind.”
What this means for you:
- You must stick to the 45-day ID and 180-day closing windows. No exceptions.
- Personal property is out—only real property qualifies.
- Make sure your replacement property is properly documented.
If you’re sloppy on the rules, the IRS won’t hesitate to turn your tax-deferred exchange into a taxable sale.
2. Depreciation Changes
Bonus depreciation has been phasing down every year. If you used to get 100% write-offs, those days are gone.
What this means:
- You may only be able to claim a reduced percentage upfront.
- You might need cost-segregation to squeeze more deductions.
- Expect more “spread-out” depreciation instead of one big hit.
This is where planning matters—timing purchases incorrectly can cost thousands.
3. Passive Loss Limitations
Rental losses are harder to claim unless you qualify as a real-estate professional, and the IRS is tightening scrutiny.
Key points:
- If you don’t materially participate, losses get trapped.
- If you do qualify, losses may offset your other income—but you must prove involvement.
- Short-term rentals have special rules that sometimes allow losses even if you’re not a real-estate pro.
This area is full of traps, and IRS examinations are on the rise.
4. Increased Attention on Property Flippers
The IRS is re-classifying more flips as ordinary income instead of capital gains.Why that matters:
- Capital gains = lower tax rate.
- Ordinary income = taxed at your top bracket + self-employment taxes.
- Intent matters. Frequency matters. Records matter.
If you’re flipping, you better have your facts straight.
5. State-Level Changes
Several states are tightening or revising rules on withholding, transfer taxes, and reporting requirements.
For owners with multi-state property:
- Expect more paperwork.
- Expect more withholding.
- Expect more states to fight over the same income.
Ignoring state rules is a fast track to penalties.
What You Should Do Now
To stay ahead of the changes—here’s the checklist I want every client to run through:
TO-DO LIST
- Review each property you own: income, expenses, depreciation schedules.
- Confirm whether you materially participate in each rental.
- Check your 1031 plans early—don’t wait until you’re under contract.
- Evaluate cost-segregation for any high-value rentals or commercial properties.
- Plan for reduced bonus depreciation before buying or improving property.
- Verify state-level filing and withholding rules if you operate in multiple states.
- Talk to us before selling, buying, refinancing, or starting a flip.
Good decisions come from facts, not assumptions—and the IRS is always happier when you make mistakes
Feeling Like You’re Walking Around in a Financial F.O.G.?
Feeling Like You’re Walking Around in a Financial F.O.G.?
By Brian Wheeler
Have you ever had that nagging feeling that you’re doing well… but you’re not exactly sure how well? Or perhaps you find yourself thinking:
Am I saving enough?
Are my investments aligned with what I really want out of life?
What happens if my income changes, or I decide to sell my business?
Will I be able to maintain this lifestyle in retirement?
If so, you’re not alone. One of the biggest stressors in life stems from uncertainty — especially when it comes to money. I tell clients all the time: we can handle almost anything, as long as we understand what we’re dealing with. It’s the unknowns that keep us up at night.
The Cost of Financial Fog
When you’re unsure about where you stand financially, even small decisions can feel overwhelming:
Do I spend or save?
Buy or wait?
Invest or hold?
Hire that employee or hold back?
Sell the business or keep building?
Without clarity, life decisions become heavier, and stress quietly builds.
The Power of Clarity
Now imagine the opposite — waking up each day knowing:
Where you are financially
Where you’re headed
What decisions support your long-term goals
That you have a clear plan — and advisors aligned with you
That’s the moment the fog lifts. Stress gives way to confidence. Uncertainty turns into direction. And instead of reacting to life as it comes, you begin shaping your future with intention.
Course-Correct Early, Live Better Now
A clear financial picture doesn’t just give you peace of mind — it gives you time. Time to adjust, pivot, and refine your strategy long before challenges show up.
The sooner you create clarity around your finances, the sooner you can:
Align personal, business, and family goals
Optimize tax, cash flow, and investment strategies
Plan for business exit or succession thoughtfully
Make informed lifestyle decisions with confidence
Reduce stress and increase peace of mind
Ready to Step Out of the Fog?
Whether you’re building wealth, preparing for a transition, or already enjoying success but want more certainty, clarity is everything.
If you’d like support gaining a clearer picture of where you are — and where you’re headed — we’re here to help you get there with purpose and confidence.
Better clarity. Better decisions. Better outcomes.
When SBA Loan Programs Pause: What Business Owners Should Know
As we move into the final stretch of the year, it’s time for every business owner to take a closer look at their policies and documentation for company-provided vehicles and employee reimbursements.
Now Is the Time to Be “Accountable”
As we move into the final stretch of the year, it’s time for every business owner to take a closer look at their policies and documentation for company-provided vehicles and employee reimbursements.
Why Buyers Are Willing to Pay More for Turnkey Operations
One of the most overlooked tax strategies for entrepreneurs and early-stage investors is the Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) exclusion under IRC §1202. When structured properly, QSBS can allow up to a 100% exclusion of federal capital gains on the sale of stock—potentially saving millions in taxes.
The Return of Full Expensing: How the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Revived 100% Bonus Depreciation
One of the most overlooked tax strategies for entrepreneurs and early-stage investors is the Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) exclusion under IRC §1202. When structured properly, QSBS can allow up to a 100% exclusion of federal capital gains on the sale of stock—potentially saving millions in taxes.
The Hidden Value in Business Assets
When buyers evaluate a business, they don’t just look at revenue and profit. They also look closely at the assets that power operations — vehicles, tools, and specialized equipment. These tangible pieces often tell a story about how well a company is run and how ready it is for a seamless transition.
Planning Ahead: How the 2026 Tax Changes May Trigger AMT
As many of our clients know, several provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) are scheduled to sunset at the end of 2025. One area that deserves special attention is the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT).
The Silver Tsunami: A Wave of Retirements Reshaping Local Business
The Silver Tsunami:
A Wave of Retirements Reshaping Local Business
By Brian Cassidy
Every day, 10,000 baby boomers retire—many are business owners. What does this mean for Northern Nevada, and how can you prepare?
The Silver Tsunami:
A Wave of Retirements Reshaping Local Business
By Brian Cassidy
Every day, 10,000 baby boomers retire—many are business owners. What does this mean for Northern Nevada, and how can you prepare?
Across America
Across America—and right here in Northern Nevada—we are experiencing what many call the “Silver Tsunami.” Every day, 10,000 baby boomers reach retirement age, and many of them are business owners who built their companies from the ground up.
For our community, this wave of retirements brings both challenge and opportunity. On one hand, the departure of long-time owners can put jobs, customer relationships, and even entire industries at risk if succession plans aren’t in place. On the other, it creates a historic opportunity for the next generation of entrepreneurs to step in, invest, and carry these businesses forward.
At Keystone Business Brokers
At Keystone Business Brokers, we see this transition up close. Selling a business isn’t just a financial transaction—it’s about protecting a lifetime of work and ensuring that the legacy continues. For buyers, it’s a chance to acquire a company with strong roots and loyal customers. For sellers, it’s about peace of mind, knowing their employees and community will continue to thrive.
The question every business owner should be asking right now is: Am I prepared? Exit planning takes time, and the most successful transitions happen when owners think ahead rather than wait until circumstances force their hand.
The Silver Tsunami is here
The Silver Tsunami is here. If you’re a business owner nearing retirement—or even just beginning to think about what comes next—now is the time to start the conversation.
At Keystone, we’re committed to helping owners navigate this change with integrity, transparency, and respect for the legacies they’ve built.