
When the IRS Comes Knocking: Why You Need a Real Estate Tax Attorney
Owning real estate can be a rewarding investment, but it also comes with its share of tax complexities. And when the IRS decides to take a closer look, it can quickly become overwhelming. That’s where a real estate tax attorney becomes your invaluable ally.
Understanding Your Rights
The IRS has specific procedures they must follow when interacting with taxpayers. It’s crucial to understand your rights to ensure fair treatment.
- The Right to Be Informed: You have the right to clear explanations of tax laws and IRS procedures. The IRS must provide this information in a way you can understand.
- The Right to Privacy: The IRS must conduct inquiries and actions legally and with minimal intrusion.
- The Right to Confidentiality: Your tax information is confidential, and the IRS cannot disclose it without your permission or legal authorization.
- The Right to Representation: You can hire an authorized representative, like a real estate tax attorney, to act on your behalf.
- The Right to a Fair and Just Tax System: You deserve fairness from the tax system. The IRS must consider your individual circumstances.
Navigating IRS Interactions
Dealing with the IRS can be daunting. Here are common scenarios where a real estate tax attorney can provide critical assistance:
- Audits: If the IRS notifies you of an audit, a real estate tax attorney can help you prepare, gather necessary documentation, and represent you during the process.
- Liens and Levies: If you owe back taxes, the IRS might place a lien on your property or levy your assets. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf to minimize the impact.
- IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service – This service can assist taxpayers experiencing financial difficulty.
- Appeals: If you disagree with the IRS’s findings, you have the right to appeal. A real estate tax attorney can guide you through the appeals process.
- IRS Office of Appeals – Learn about the IRS’s independent appeals process.
- Collection Due Process (CDP) Hearing: If the IRS is trying to collect taxes from you, you have the right to a CDP hearing. An attorney can represent you in this hearing.

Common Real Estate Tax Issues
- Tax Planning: Proactive strategies to minimize your tax liability.
- Holland & Knight Tax Practice – Learn about comprehensive tax planning advice.
- 1031 Exchanges: Deferring capital gains taxes when selling one investment property and buying another.
- IRS Like-Kind Exchanges – Understand the rules for like-kind exchanges.
- Property Tax Disputes: Challenging your property tax assessment.
- Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA): Tax implications for foreign investors in U.S. real estate.
- Estate Tax: Planning for the transfer of real estate upon death.
- IRS Estate Tax Information – Learn about estate tax regulations.

When to Seek Help from a Real Estate Tax Attorney
Don’t wait until the situation escalates. It’s wise to consult a real estate tax attorney in these situations:
- You receive any communication from the IRS regarding an audit or investigation.
- You have complex real estate transactions.
- You need help with tax planning for real estate investments.
- You are facing a tax dispute or need to appeal an IRS decision.
Conclusion
Navigating real estate tax laws and IRS procedures can be complex. A knowledgeable real estate tax attorney can protect your interests, ensure compliance, and provide peace of mind. They can guide you through audits, appeals, and other interactions with the IRS, helping you achieve the best possible outcome.