A donation of real property (land or building) must be made in writing through a public instrument (Deed of Donation) and signed by both the donor and donee in the presence of at least two witnesses.
In general, a person can get title to land owned by someone else by using the land exclusively, out in the open, without permission by the owner, and continuously and without interruption for the time period contained in state law for 15 years.
Michigan Property Donation – The Process Contact Real Estate with Causes; either choose your property type and complete the online donation form or call (888)-228-7320 and a professional volunteer representative will help you donate.
A land trust is a legal entity that assumes control over property and other real estate assets at the behest of the property's owner. It's a living trust, which is generally revocable, meaning the terms of the trust can be changed or terminated at any time.
If you give property to a qualified organization, you can generally deduct the fair market value (FMV) of the property at the time of the contribution.
Real Estate Donation A landowner may be interested in gifting a property to a charity or land trust. When a charity or land trusts accepts a real estate donation, the landowner can deduct the fair market value of the land from his or her federal taxes.
A popular fundraising program is the sale of donated property. Charities may also use donated property in their tax-exempt programs.
Individuals may deduct qualified contributions of up to 100 percent of their adjusted gross income. A corporation may deduct qualified contributions of up to 25 percent of its taxable income. Contributions that exceed that amount can carry over to the next tax year.
Determining the value of donated property de- pends upon many factors. You should consider all the facts and circumstances connected with the property, including any recent transactions, in determining value. Value may also be based on desirability, use, condition, scarcity, and mar- ket demand for that property.
It involves drafting key legal paperwork, having your land appraised, finding an eligible land trust or nonprofit to enforce the easement, and consulting with a CPA to maximize your tax deduction. Fortunately, Giving Property specializes in working with donors to make the process as easy as possible.