Latest Center Research Addresses Estate Doctrine, Vacation Home Tax Issues

COLLEGE STATION (Real Estate Center) – Two new articles have been posted on the Center’s website — one for rural landowners, the other for rental vacation homeowners.

"Accommodation of the Estate Doctrine"
Surface owners without minerals face many perplexing situations when an oil company enters to explore and produce the minerals. Surface owners gain some relief and protection under the recently recognized accommodation of the estate doctrine. Written by Judon Fambrough.

"Vacation Home Rentals: Recent Tax Developments"
Vacation home rentals can decrease income taxes under certain circumstances. However, a 2014 court case demonstrates how the personal use of a rental vacation home can decrease tax benefits. A new 3.8 percent surtax on unearned income may increase taxes when vacation rental homes are sold. Written by Jerrold Stern.