What Is Cost Recovery (Depreciation Deduction)?
In a tax context, cost recovery is the process of deducting a rental property's cost over its IRS-defined useful life (27.5 years for residential rental property, 39 for commercial) as an annual depreciation expense — distinct from renovation cost recovery, which measures how much of a remodel's cost comes back as added resale value.
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This definition is provided for general educational purposes and is not financial, legal, tax, or real estate advice. Verify important decisions with appropriately qualified professionals.
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