My tax professional is stating that I would need an appraisal to show the lot/structure are valued at $400k if I try to claim $200k as a donation.

It may be worth having an experienced professional helping you and you could always try to get the seller to pay your agent’s fees.

These are professionals with additional training and a stricter code of ethics.

Focus on tax-saving strategies such as cost segregation studies and bonus depreciation to accelerate deductions.By qualifying as a Real Estate Professional (spending 750+ hours annually and materially participating), you can offset your wife’s S-Corp income with real estate losses, reducing your tax liability.

Readers should seek professional advice. 

.: I think you meant to type was… Thanks @Jeff S.for your free professional advice.

Readers should seek professional advice.

Here is an example of what it costs you to avoid professional advice.

I’ve developed a Comprehensive Investor Report (CIR) for a property in Palm Coast, FL, designed to be transformed into a luxury rental asset while serving as the foundation for a scalable asset management strategy.Here’s a quick snapshot of the deal:Property: Red Birch Lane, Palm Coast, FLCurrent Value: $350,000+Mortgage Balance: $165,000Current Equity: $185,000Investment Required: $177,500 (for luxury upgrades and optimization)Projected Monthly Rent: $4,500 with 2% annual increasesTarget ROI: Full 1.5x ROI for investors achieved in 9 yearsLuxury Features: Smart home automation, designer finishes, professional-grade kitchen appliances, and more.I’ve also structured a capital distribution plan with a waterfall approach:8% Preferred Return for investors.Full Return of Capital to investors before profit splits.Post-ROI, a 20/80 split (Investor/Management) ensures long-term alignment.

You can be sure they will continue to negotiate for, strategize and advise themselves.If the laws are similar where you are, you should consider if you want someone doing those things for you, and whether you are comfortable going toe-to-toe alone with a licensed professional on a $1.25 million purchase.