Construction & Real Estate
Showing 945–960 of 1263 results
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Do you have a financial health plan? If not, it’s time to establish one
Summer 2011
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 651
Abstract: Having a financial health plan is critical for any construction business, but it’s especially helpful during a lackluster economy. By taking the company’s “pulse” on a regular basis, a contractor can ward off a number of financial maladies before the bottom line develops a serious ailment. This article describes some of the most important financial indicators, along with some of the ratios and other key measures used to assess them.
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Manufacturers’ deduction offers contractors valuable tax savings
Summer 2011
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 689
Abstract: Many contractors overlook the manufacturers’ deduction because it sounds like it applies only to manufacturing companies. Not so — many construction businesses, as well as architectural and engineering firms, can avail themselves of the deduction’s valuable tax savings. This article shows which activities qualify and how the deduction is calculated. A sidebar cites a court case explaining that, for purposes of claiming the deduction, the distinction between “substantial renovation” and “maintenance” is critical.
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Ask the Advisor – Should I use an FLP to transfer real estate to my heirs?
May / June 2011
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 431
Abstract: Recent tax law changes have prompted many owners to reassess their plans for transferring real estate and other assets to their heirs. One vehicle worth considering is the family limited partnership (FLP). It can help owners limit gift and estate taxes related to asset transfers, while still retaining some control over the property. This article examines the advantages and pitfalls of an FLP.
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Tax Court finds street lights qualify for 7-year depreciation
May / June 2011
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 587
Abstract: The U.S. Tax Court recently ruled against the IRS in a dispute over the proper period of depreciation for street lights. The IRS had claimed that the lights were subject to a 20-year period, but the court held that they’re subject to a period of only seven years. This article shows that, as a result of this ruling, owners of property with a significant number of street lights could recover the costs of the lights much more quickly. But, as the IRS continues its initiative against faster property depreciation rates, this case underscores the importance of applying common sense and revisiting the plain language of the law when battling the IRS.
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Noncorporate business structures can provide ease and flexibility
May / June 2011
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 692
Abstract: Choosing the right business structure for a real estate venture requires serious thought. A corporation is one possible structure that can provide many benefits, but this article takes a closer look at noncorporate options, which generally are subject to fewer rules and regulations and may offer more flexibility. Specifically, it discusses general partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and limited liability partnerships (LLPs).
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Maintenance vs. capital improvement – The difference can mean more money in your pocket
May / June 2011
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 828
Abstract: Property owners often wrestle with how to classify their repair and upkeep costs — are they routine maintenance costs, which are immediately deductible against current income? Or are they capital expenditures that must be recovered over time through depreciation? This article discusses proposed IRS regulations that would help clarify how such costs should be treated for tax purposes. As a sidebar explains, the regulations also provide that “inherently facilitative” transaction costs must be capitalized.
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Construction Success Story – Contractor divides company into multiple entities
May / June 2011
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 444
Abstract: This issue’s “Construction Success Story” looks at a general contractor who was interested in taking on some state and federal projects. But he knew such jobs could be tricky and worried about his company’s lack of experience. His financial advisor showed him how multiple business entities could provide one way to safeguard his established company’s reputation while offering potential legal and tax benefits as well.
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Track your tools – Technology can help you stop the nickel-and-diming
May / June 2011
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 642
Abstract: Losses of small tools, whether to carelessness or outright theft, can slowly but surely nickel-and-dime a contractor into a disadvantageous financial position. Fortunately, technology offers a variety of tools for coping with this problem. This article explains how bar-code systems can not only track tools, but in the process improve management efficiency and lower liability risks. And integrating a tool-tracking system into the accounting system can boost the value of tool-related data and streamline procurement of these assets.
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Preparation is key for contractors seeking credit
May / June 2011
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 418
Abstract: Although the financing market remains tight, it’s still possible to prevail in a search for credit. By building their case beforehand and knowing all of the available options, contractors will have a better shot at getting the dollars they need. This article shows how to choose the right lender and how to analyze projected balance sheets and projected future earnings in advance of visiting the lender. It also looks at alternatives for those shut out of traditional lending altogether.
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Keeping Uncle Sam at bay – 4 ways to minimize your chances of an IRS audit
May / June 2011
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 891
Abstract: Thanks to a variety of industry quirks, construction companies are especially vulnerable to IRS audits. But this article offers four ways to avoid some common audit triggers: using the accrual method of accounting, correctly classifying workers as employees or independent contractors, timely paying taxes on long-term contracts, and operating as an S corporation. A sidebar discusses steps that those already contemplating an audit can take.
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The Contractor’s Corner – How can I keep debt from sneaking up on me?
Spring 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 423
Abstract: This issue’s “Contractor’s Corner” looks at the dilemma of a contractor who worries about encroaching debt even when work is plentiful. Construction businesses are particularly sensitive to cash flow fluctuations, so giving up too much flexibility to debt could really hurt. This article explains how contractors need to prioritize debt, paying particular attention to their debt-to-equity ratio. It also discusses options to bankruptcy when debt becomes overwhelming.
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The state of your construction company – Benchmarking can help you determine where you stand
Spring 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 648
Abstract: To get and stay ahead, contractors must continually focus on getting better. One way to do so is to regularly undertake the process of benchmarking their company’s performance against either its previous results or those of other contractors who provide comparable services. This article examines the differences between internal and external benchmarking and how to choose the specific benchmarks that have the most effect on the company. It’s then a matter of assembling the right data to be measured.
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Manage subcontractor risk with the right software
Spring 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 416
Abstract: Subcontractors are a calculated risk, so it’s imperative to gather and track data pertinent to ensuring effective subcontractor management. The good news is that there is software available to help automate the process. This article discusses the tasks that specialized software can perform, with the result that contractors can improve cash flow and the timing of payments, and ensure they’re not paying subs who haven’t fulfilled a job’s administrative requirements.
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2011 tax planning – Keeping your eye on the ball as the season heats up
Spring 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1037
Abstract: Whatever contractors do in the coming year will have a big effect on their 2011 tax bill. So it’s important that they keep their eye on the ball as the months progress — particularly in light of tax law changes that were passed last year. This article discusses these changes as they affect bonus depreciation, the Section 179 expensing deduction, and which of these options might provide a bigger benefit in a particular situation. Several other tax breaks are mentioned, while a sidebar shows that it might still be possible to qualify for a retention credit even though the HIRE Act of 2010 hasn’t been extended.
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Contractor’s Toolbox – Use these simple tools to combat check fraud
Spring 2011
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 415
Abstract: One of the most common fraud schemes today is also one of the simplest: check fraud. It’s relatively easy to create a forged or counterfeit check with nothing more than a computer, scanner and printer. But this article discusses a couple of simple solutions to this problem: positive pay and going paperless.
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Get a handle on multistate sales and use tax issues
Spring 2011
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 612
Abstract: Over the last few years, the recession has caused many construction companies to expand into other states or even explore international options. It’s critical that contractors doing business in several states understand how each state’s sales and use tax laws will affect their business. This article explains how laws and regulations can vary widely from state to state, including how they differ in their treatment of contracts with tax-exempt entities.