When this book was released I thought – in fact I hoped – it would be good, simply because the tax system relating to the rental market is now so complicated. Virtually no week goes by without some form of comment on the viability of renting post the tax grab from landlords, and there is an almost never-ending stream of articles about whether to sell up, transfer to a limited company or continue as is.
It used to be so simple. Now this book is 470 pages long, excluding a 20-plus index, which shows exactly how involved it has become. The book is drawn together under the editorship of Mark McLaughlin – readers will be no doubt be familiar with him from his articles in this magazine and countless other tax books and journals. Numerous authors have written for this book, just look at the list: Satwaki Chanda, James Darmon, Malcolm Finney, Peter Klim, Robert Maas, Lee Sharpe, David Smith, Liz Syms, Martin Wilson and Ken Wright. The quality is there for all to see.
But it’s not just about tax. There is an essential checklist for new landlords (Appendix B) which I can see appearing in letters to prospective clients, providing added value to the prospect.
The book is split into two sections, tax issues and legal issues. There are 15 chapters in the tax issues section covering all the possible taxes from income tax, corporate tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, stamp duty land tax and land and buildings transaction tax, as well as a section on incorporation of a buy-to-let property business. I especially liked the chapter on furnished holiday lets. The legal issues section covers dealing with tenants and agents and buy-to-let mortgages, as well as landlord obligations.
It’s a comprehensive book by respected and noted tax writers, covering everything that I think an accountant with clients in the rental market will need to know.
When I first read the book I said: “In my opinion this will become the go-to reference for accountants with clients in this sector – get a copy and see why for yourself.” I see Bloomsbury is quoting this on its website all I can say is that I have most certainly not changed my tune. If you think I’m being too effusive about a book about tax then get a copy, have a read and I’m sure you will agree with me.
I have to admit that I’m really liking the way Bloomsbury Professional is going about their business these days.
• Tony Margaritelli Chair, ICPA
This article is taken from “Accounting Practice” the ICPA quarterly magazine. Dedicated to supporting and promoting the needs of the general practitioner. You can find us at www.icpa.org.uk or email [email protected] or by phone on 0800-074-2896.
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