Why childcare centers reclassify well in California

California is the largest U.S. real estate market by basis, but high state income tax rates make federal cost segregation deductions especially valuable. California decouples from federal bonus depreciation, so studies model both federal and California books separately.

Childcare Center properties have a particular profile that makes cost segregation especially valuable: playground, fencing, dedicated kitchen and laundry, casework. The shell sits on a 39-year recovery period under MACRS — but every childcare center is hundreds of components, many of which qualify for 5-, 7-, or 15-year recovery and accelerated bonus depreciation.

Typical reclassification ratio

For a childcare center in California, TDA studies typically reclassify 25–32% of depreciable basis. Combined with 100% OBBBA bonus depreciation on property acquired and placed in service after January 19, 2025, that translates the entire reclassified amount into a year-one deduction.

California markets we serve

We deliver childcare center cost segregation studies across California, including Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Sacramento. Engineering-based methodology and RSMeans cost data on every engagement.