Are you among the large crowd of people who don't like math?
Lots of people love running their own businesses, but staying on top of the financial side of things can be tricky. This is especially true for rental property businesses.
What should landlords know about rental property accounting? Read on for our accounting guide that can help protect your rental property business.
Separate Personal and Business Finances
First, keep your personal and rental property finances separate. This simple step prevents confusion.
Open a dedicated bank account for property management accounting. This makes tracking and managing finances easier and clearer.
Use Reliable Accounting Software for Landlords
Investing in good accounting software for landlords can save time and reduce errors. Software like QuickBooks, Buildium, or Stessa is designed for property management accounting. These tools help do the following:
- Automate tasks
- Track income and expenses
- Generate financial reports
Track Rental Income and Expenses on a Regular Basis
Consistent rental income tracking is crucial. Record every payment you receive from tenants promptly. Also, log every expense related to your property. This includes the following:
- Repairs
- Maintenance
- Property management fees
Regular tracking helps in accurate financial reporting and tax preparation.
Understand and Categorize Expenses
Properly categorize your expenses to understand your cash flow better. Common categories include the following:
- Repairs
- Maintenance
- Utilities
- Property management fees
- Insurance
Categorizing helps identify areas for cost savings and improved profitability. It's a key part of any real estate accounting guide.
Maintain Digital and Physical Records
Keep both digital and physical records of all rental property transactions. Digital records are easier to organize and retrieve. Physical copies are also vital in case of technical issues.
- Receipts
- Invoices
- Contracts
This practice ensures you have all the necessary documents for tax purposes and audits.
Reconcile Bank Statements Each Month
Reconcile your bank statements every month. This process involves matching your bank records with your accounting records.
Reconciliation helps in identifying discrepancies and ensuring accuracy. It also helps in detecting any unauthorized transactions early.
Plan for Taxes
Taxes are a significant part of rental property accounting. Set aside money each month to avoid last-minute stress. Understand the tax deductions available for rental properties, such as the following:
- Mortgage interest
- Property taxes
- Depreciation
Monitor Cash Flow
Keep an eye on your cash flow. Positive cash flow means more income than expenses, which is essential for profitability. If you notice negative cash flow, identify the reasons and take corrective actions right away.
Budget for Future Expenses
Create a budget for future expenses. Anticipate the following costs:
- Major repairs
- Renovations
- Upgrades
Budgeting helps in planning your finances and ensures you have funds available when needed. It also prevents overspending and helps in maintaining a healthy cash reserve.
Do You Need Help with Rental Property Accounting?
Rental property accounting isn't fun, but it's vital for a healthy rental property business. Using these landlord accounting tips will always keep you on the right path.
Has running your Boise rental property business been tricky? Contact Next Step Realty Management to learn how we can help. Our property management services have been uplifting investors like you since 1999.