Bigger Pockets is a great place to find a real estate tax accountant.A good real estate accountant can save you thousands of dollars by leveraging entity selection and formation, tax deductions, cost segregations, bonus depreciation and tax planning.I recommend finding an accountant who specializes in real estate taxation, business taxation, financial planning and tax planning.You may want to consider working with your accountant remotely to expand your options.I would also recommend looking for a accountant willing to work with you throughout the year.

You cannot deduct your rehab costs until the property is in service. 

This protects against potential claims and liabilities specific to the rental.For tax purposes, maintain clear records of rental-related income and expenses, allowing deductions for insurance, utilities, maintenance, and depreciation proportionate to the rental unit.

all materials, all labor costs to others, Not you, utilities, interest payments, permits, licenses, auto/truck expenses, tools needed are all deductable. 

My main account has all the rents deposited and all expenses deducted such as mortgages, some utilities and an electronic payment app connected to the account to pay contractors.

Windows are expensive to replace.4) Glue Residues - Lease is very specific for no double-side tape or adhesive (ie 3M pull tabs ok, but not double sided tape.)

It seems that investing in improvements while I still live in the home wouldn't be tax deductible.

CPAs often advise against pursuing this designation unless the time commitment and documentation are robust, as failing to qualify can result in IRS audits or penalties.The 500-hour rule pertains to material participation in specific real estate activities or businesses.

Requirements:✔ Experience in international taxation: Understanding of the Germany-USA Tax Treaty and cross-border income taxation✔ Specialization in real estate: Tax treatment of rental income, depreciation, tax benefits, and investment deductions✔ Tax optimization strategies: Maximizing deductions (e.g., business travel, home office), optimizing mixed-income structures✔ Long-term tax planning: Strategies to reduce tax liabilities and avoid unexpected tax payments✔ Proactive advisory & clear communication: Ability to explain complex tax matters in simple terms and provide proactive tax-saving solutionsAdditional Considerations:Expertise in tax treatment of travel to Germany (e.g., for real estate management)Experience with compliance in both countriesIf you meet these qualifications and are interested in working together, or know someone who meets our requests, please send a message. 

As both an investor and a mortgage broker who has personally used both options, I can say there are benefits to each.It ultimately comes down to comparing the two side by side based on your specific situation.