Tax Help - Owner-occupied duplex in Philadelphia

[Joshua G.]

Hi BiggerPockets friends,

I purchased my first duplex in Philadelphia last June and am looking for tax guidance.  I live in one unit and rent out the other.  

Does anyone have any experience with which deductions/credits I have available?  I'm considering hiring a tax accountant for this first time around, but wanted to check on this site to see if anyone in the area has experience they can offer.

Thanks for the help,

Josh

[Jay Sechowicz]

Hey josh, 

I'm curious to see what people have to say. I'm in the same position as you, me and my girlfriend bought in March. Recently I was given a name of and accountant from a friend that has a couple of rental properties himself, but I do not know him personally yet. I want to know what qualities we should look for in him and if there is anything specific I should ask him or find out about him. 

Also we've done a decent amount of work to the property, what are some of the things that are advantageous to do as far as tax purposes? 

Jay