Construction & Real Estate
Showing 929–944 of 1263 results
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3 ways to get more from mobile technology
September / October 2011
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 436
Abstract: Contractors who juggle projects at multiple sites know it can be tricky to accurately track job data and employee activities. The good news is that there are now a wide variety of apps available for smartphones, tablet computers, laptops and construction vehicles that allow contractors to store and view data regarding labor hours, vehicle and equipment use, and daily job-site production. This article examines three of these: wireless time cards, geo-fencing technology, and global positioning systems.
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Year end tax planning – Explore current incentives to boost your cash flow
September / October 2011
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 935
Abstract: Many current tax incentives are set to expire at the end of this year (though Congress might extend them), so now is a good time for contractors to start exploring ways to lock in those breaks and lower their 2011 tax bill. This article looks at some of these breaks, such as those applying to hiring workers from certain disadvantaged groups; constructing energy-efficient buildings; conducting research and development; and purchasing certain assets. A sidebar shows how cost segregation studies offer bigger tax savings than ever.
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Ask the Advisor – How can lease options help me in this slow economy?
July / August 2011
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 403
Abstract: Property owners who’ve had trouble locking down sales are offering potential buyers a gradual approach to purchasing their property — lease options. Although a lease option may not be the ideal structure for a sales transaction, it offers some attractive benefits, especially in today’s down market. This article explains how lease options work and their potential benefits and drawbacks.
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Before surrendering property, consider the tax consequences
July / August 2011
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 611
Abstract: With the real estate market still sluggish, some property owners are wondering: Would they be better off surrendering their property, rather than continuing to struggle with the loan obligations? Although the answer may seem obvious, discharging debt in this way can have significant tax consequences that should be considered. This article looks at the tax consequences of defaulting on recourse vs. nonrecourse loans.
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Foreclosure investing: It’s not for the fainthearted
July / August 2011
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 540
Abstract: Flipping foreclosures may seem like a tempting investment opportunity, but it isn’t for the fainthearted. It often requires a lot of work, research and money — it may take thousands of dollars to repair perhaps years of neglect and to make the property salable. And the property may come with hidden surprises, such as federal tax liens, partial interests, leased land, and other liabilities. This article describes some of the considerations involved and the options available, including bank-owned foreclosed properties and preforeclosures.
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Determining material participation – Tax Court addresses property owner’s “on-call” hours
July / August 2011
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1059
Abstract: Real estate professionals enjoy some tax benefits that aren’t available to other taxpayers, but the professional must meet strict rules to qualify as one. For example, it’s necessary to perform more than 750 hours of real estate–related services. But does being “on-call” qualify for hours worked? This article looks at one case in which the Tax Court disallowed the claims of a couple that they met the requirement because the husband had been on-call to perform activities related to the rental properties. A sidebar explains why they additionally had to pay a penalty. James F. Moss v. Commissioner, 135 T.C. No. 18 (2010).
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The Contractor’s Corner – How can we tighten up our insurance claims process?
Summer 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 441
Abstract: This issue’s “Contractor’s Corner” examines the plight of a construction company that, following a series of natural disasters, felt that they’d lost money on soft costs that their adjuster had successfully disputed. This article offers suggestions on how to tighten up the claims process.
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Paperless projects harbor both perks and pitfalls
Summer 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 440
Abstract: Most contractors would probably be more interested in a paperless job site than an all-digital office — because that’s where they spend most of their time. Indeed, paperless projects are possible, but they harbor both perks and pitfalls. This article shows how a Web-based project management system can tie together documents from the project owner, the architect and any subcontractors, enabling the contractor to improve organization and efficiency. But the transition involves time, expense, and buy-in from the parties involved.
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Confronting the specter of an IRS audit
Summer 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 651
Abstract: An IRS audit, though not entirely preventable, is more manageable than one might think. Construction companies are document-oriented businesses. So if they manage those documents properly, they’ll likely be well on their way to defending whatever tax breaks they’ve claimed. This article discusses topics such as the types of records to keep and the importance of properly classifying employees and independent contractors.
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Don’t give up on going green – Sustainable building remains a viable force in construction
Summer 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 891
Abstract: Although it has certainly been affected by the economy and slower construction markets in many areas, green building is still right here and doing just fine. So it’s important for contractors to stay familiar with the topic and be cognizant of its benefits and risks. This article discusses requirements a project must meet to be qualified as sustainable, and the financial and reputational benefits that can follow. A sidebar discusses current events in green building.
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Construction Success Story – Contractor looks to turn around turnover
July / August 2011
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 442
Abstract: This issue’s “Construction Success Story” features a medical facilities contractor who suspected that high turnover was contributing to the company’s suddenly slumping profits. His financial advisor showed him a way to measure his turnover cost, and then address the root cause of the problem.
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What should you expect from your surety?
July / August 2011
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 663
Abstract: The surety market remains tight in most areas of the country, so strict standards remain the norm. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible for contractors to navigate the situation and get the bonding they need. This article describes the business criteria that sureties are scrutinizing, and offers suggestions as to how contractors can meet them.
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Seize the moment when it comes to gift taxes
July / August 2011
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 446
Abstract: Giving away money in an economy that remains challenging for many contractors may seem a hard-to-swallow concept. But current estate and gift tax rules allow one to give a substantial amount without incurring taxes — and they lower the tax rate for gifts beyond that dollar limit. This article briefly describes the rules — which, in their existing form, expire at the end of 2012 — and suggests how they can affect construction businesses and contractors’ personal estates.
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Crossing the border – A guide to multistate licensing
July / August 2011
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 899
Abstract: Performing an out-of-state job is more complicated than just crossing the border with a crane and crew in tow. Most states require contractors to obtain licenses — even if they hold licenses in their home states. Those who skirt the licensing process can get slapped with civil or criminal penalties, such as significant fines. This article shows the necessity of advance preparation and research, along with some of the specific steps involved in the application process. A sidebar explains why submitting a bid without a license can have serious consequences.
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Contractor’s Toolbox – The “no damages for delay” clause: Handle with care
Summer 2011
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 414
Abstract: Because delays can be costly, contractors often seek damages for delays caused by the owner or, in the case of a subcontractor, by the general contractor. But a “no damages for delay” clause can help mitigate the financial ramifications of such delays. Essentially, it denies a contractor’s right to recover monetary damages for some or all delays, limiting its remedies to an extension of time to complete the work. This article explains what the clause can and cannot do and lists some exceptions to the clause.
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5 tips for showing you’re “bond worthy”
Summer 2011
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 578
Abstract: In today’s economy, risk-averse project owners are more likely to require bonds. At the same time, cautious sureties have become more rigorous in their evaluation and approval of bond requests. So, it’s critical for contractors to show that they’re “bond worthy.” This article offers five tips for doing just that.