Getting Married Soon : Should I Buy a Property Now?

This question was asked by my 25 year old friend who is planning to wed next year. I have been involved in properties for the last 5 years and making some small passive income from it, I naturally said yes. But I have to remind her that if she is planning to buy for her own stay, then it won't be considered as an asset. I think I have no problem saying your own home is not an asset to her generation. Imagine if I have that kind of thinking 10 years ago! I would have started investing with my first salary money! But first, she needs to answer a couple of questions:

1. What is the lifestyle that she envision for herself 10 years from now, kids (if any) and all. Still working or wanted to start a business?
2. What is her long-term goal with this property? Own stay or for rental or sell for profit?

Allowable Expenses for Rental Income in Malaysia

So, if you are filing your tax in Malaysia under individual (Borang BE) and you happen to have rental income, here are the allowable expenses that you can deduct from your rental income:

1. Interest portion of your loan
2. Cukai taksiran/pintu (i.e. MBPJ, DBKL)
3. Property tax
4. Insurance
5. Maintenance fee
6. Stamping fee for agreements.
7. Agent fee (doesn't apply to first time you rent out your property)
8. Other cost/fee directly related to getting the rental income.

What you can't deduct:

1. Administration fee.
2. Improvement cost (i.e. paint, furniture, water heater, air-con, etc).
3. Renovation cost.
4. Any cost/fee that is not related to getting the rental income.

However, if this is rental income from your business and qualified to become a business income (i.e. at least 4 residential properties, etc) the first 3 of the above are allowable expenses. Other cost/fee connected to any aspect of your rental business are also allowed. Consult your tax consultant (I am not!) for more information. Hope this helps someone!