2026 Tax Guide for Real Estate Agents

Tax Deductions for Real Estate Agents

Tax deductions every realtor should claim. Vehicle mileage, marketing, MLS fees, staging costs, client entertainment, and more.

Average Deductions

$17,500.00

Estimated Tax Savings

$5,250.00

Commonly Missed

6+ deductions

Top Deductions for Real Estate Agents

Vehicle / Mileage

~$7,000.00/yr

Driving to showings · Open house travel · Client property tours · Office commute (if multiple offices)

Marketing & Advertising

~$4,000.00/yr

Zillow/Realtor.com ads · Social media advertising · Business cards · Yard signs · Flyers and brochures

MLS & Association Fees

~$2,000.00/yr

MLS subscription · NAR dues · State/local board fees · Lockbox fees

Technology & Software

~$1,500.00/yr

CRM software · DocuSign · Transaction management tools · Virtual tour software

Client Meals & Entertainment

~$1,000.00/yr

Client lunches (50% deductible) · Closing gifts · Open house refreshments

Continuing Education

~$800.00/yr

License renewal courses · Real estate certifications · Industry conferences

Phone & Internet

~$1,200.00/yr

Smartphone plan · Home internet (business %) · Tablet for presentations

Commonly Missed Deductions for Real Estate Agents

  • Staging costs and furniture rental
  • Professional photography for listings
  • Drone photography/videography
  • Closing gifts for clients
  • E&O insurance premiums
  • Home office for administrative work

See Your Exact Tax Savings

Use our free tax calculator to estimate how much you could save with proper deduction tracking as a real estate agents.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can real estate agents deduct mileage?

Yes. All driving for property showings, client meetings, open houses, and property inspections is deductible at $0.70/mile (2026). This is typically the largest deduction for realtors.

Are MLS and association fees deductible?

Yes. MLS subscription fees, NAR dues, state and local board fees, and lockbox rental fees are all 100% deductible business expenses.

Can I deduct staging costs?

Yes. Home staging costs, furniture rental, and professional staging services are deductible business expenses when you pay them as the listing agent.

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