Bookkeeping For Landlords: What You Need to Know
Whether you manage or own one or multiple properties, you must always keep accurate records.
First of all, it is highly recommended that you keep separate records for every single property, especially those with more extensive portfolios. By doing that, you can be ready anytime you are asked about a particular property. This can also help you reduce your accounting fees and helps make calculating easier.
Having updated and accurate records allows you, as a landlord, to have a clearer understanding of how your business is going.
In this post, trusted accountants from 1 to 1 Accountants are sharing what bookkeeping is like for landlords:
How Can You Do Bookkeeping for Rental Properties?
As a landlord, keeping accurate records of your rental income and expenses is essential. This will not only help you stay organised, but it will also be beneficial come tax time. Here are a few tips on how to do bookkeeping for rental properties:
1. Keep track of all income and expenses. This includes rent payments, repair and maintenance costs, advertising expenses, etc.
2. Use a separate bank account for each of your rental property. This will make it easier to track expenses and income.
3. Use a software program or spreadsheet to keep track of your finances. This will make it easier to generate reports and track your progress over time.
4. Stay organized! This will make it much easier to do your bookkeeping and will save you time in the long run.
How Can You Track Your Rental Income?
There are several different ways that you can track your rental income. The most important thing is to make sure that you are keeping accurate records so that you can see how much money you are making each month.
One way to track your rental income is to use a spreadsheet. This can be a simple Excel spreadsheet where you track the date, the amount of rent collected, and any expenses you incur. This will give you a good overview of your monthly income and expenses.
Another way to track your rental income is using a software program specifically designed to track rental property. Many different programs are available, and they can be quite helpful in keeping track of your income and expenses.
Whichever method you choose, make sure that you are consistent in your record keeping. This will make it much easier to track your rental income and see how your business is doing.
What Accounting Fees Should You Know About?
While you can do some of the bookkeeping for your properties, there will come a time when you'll need a professional accountant's services. When that happens, here are some of the fees you need to prepare for:
Bookkeeping Fees
Bookkeeping fees can vary depending on the complexity of the business and the number of transactions that need to be processed.
Tax Preparation Fees
Businesses will need to budget for tax preparation fees each year. The amount will vary depending on the size and complexity of the company.
Audit Fees
Audit fees can be significant, and businesses should budget a considerable amount for an audit. Note that the frequency of audits will depend on the size and nature of the business.
Conclusion
If you are a landlord, keeping accurate and up-to-date records of your rental income and expenses is important. This will help you stay organised and on top of your finances and help you come tax time. There are many different ways to keep track of your bookkeeping, but finding the system that works best for you is vital. Whether you use a simple spreadsheet, specialised software, or hire a professional bookkeeper from an accountancy practice, ensure that your records are accurate and up to date.
1 to 1 Accountants is a reputable firm offering accountancy services in the UK. Get in touch with us to find out what we can do for you!
