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Capital expenditures (CapEx) are long-term investments made by real estate owners or investors to improve or maintain a property's value. These investments typically involve large sums of money and have a long-term impact on a property's ability to generate income.
CapEx can also include purchasing or replacing major appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, washers, and dryers, and adding amenities to a property such as a pool or fitness center.
Capital expenditures are different from operating expenses, which are the day-to-day expenses of running a property, such as utilities, cleaning services, and repairs. While operating expenses are typically deducted from rental income to determine a property's net operating income (NOI), capital expenditures are not.
Instead, capital expenditures are depreciated over time and deducted as a non-cash expense on a property's tax return. This depreciation expense can be spread over several years and can help offset some of the tax liability involved in owning real estate.
Capital expenditures can significantly impact a property's value and income-generating potential. For example, if a property has an outdated HVAC system, it may be less desirable to renters or buyers, resulting in lower rental income or property value. By investing in a new HVAC system, the property owner can potentially increase rental income and the property's overall value.
However, it's important to note that not all capital expenditures will generate a positive return on investment (ROI). Some investments may have a minimal impact on a property's income or value, while others may require significant capital without providing a significant return. Therefore, property owners and investors evaluate potential CapEx projects and determine whether they will generate a positive ROI.
By making strategic long-term investments in a property's infrastructure and amenities, owners and investors can increase its value and income-generating potential.
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