Tax Manager, Real Estate

Overview

This Tax Manager – Real Estate role leads tax compliance, planning, and consulting engagements for clients in the real estate sector. Responsibilities include advising on complex real estate tax matters, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and optimizing tax positions. The position also involves mentoring staff, strengthening internal processes, and contributing to firm-wide initiatives.

Location

United States

While this role is open to candidates across the U.S., there is a strong preference for individuals located in the Pacific Northwest or broader West Coast region.

Compensation

$113,400 - $169,400 / year

Salary ranges for U.S.-based positions are determined by geographic location and fall into one of three pay zones. Anticipated salary ranges for this position are outlined above and are subject to change. Final offer amounts may vary and may be adjusted over time.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive tax strategies for real estate transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, entity structuring, and 1031 exchanges.
• Advise on depreciation strategies (MACRS, bonus depreciation, Section 179) and conduct or review cost segregation studies to maximize deductions.
• Prepare and review accounting method change filings (Form 3115) related to depreciation, cost segregation, and accrual-to-cash transitions.
• Analyze and advise on passive activity loss rules, material participation tests, and real estate professional status determinations.
• Evaluate capitalization vs. expense treatment of development and operating costs under IRC §263A, ensuring accurate classification of deductible and capitalizable expenses.
• Review and manage preparation of complex tax returns for partnerships, corporations, individuals, and trusts, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency.
• Oversee partnership tax compliance, including special allocations, capital accounts, basis tracking, Section 754 elections, and K-2/K-3 reporting.
• Advise on tax treatment of leasehold improvements, tenant allowances, and business interest expense limitations under Section 163(j).
• Identify and apply federal and state tax credits and incentives, including energy-related deductions such as Section 179D.
• Conduct tax research to support client positions and ensure compliance with current regulations.
• Lead and manage client engagements by implementing high-quality standards, identifying inefficiencies, and enhancing service delivery.
• Mentor junior staff through training, performance feedback, and career development initiatives.
• Build strong client relationships and collaborate with leadership on strategic projects and initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field is required.
• Minimum of 5-8+ years of experience in public accounting preparing and reviewing tax returns.
• CPA or EA license required.
• Proficiency in tax preparation software and financial analysis tools.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Adobe, and accounting software (CCH products; ProSystems and FX Engagement).
• In-depth expertise in real estate taxation, including passive activity rules, real estate professional status, and developer/investor-specific tax rules.
• Strong knowledge of depreciation methods (MACRS, bonus depreciation, Section 179, QIP) and cost segregation applications.
• Familiarity with accounting method changes (Form 3115), capitalization vs. expense rules (IRC §263A), and leasehold improvement treatment.
• Proficiency in partnership taxation, including complex allocations, capital accounts, basis tracking, debt-financed distributions, Section 754 elections, and K-2/K-3 reporting.
• Knowledge of business interest expense limitations under Section 163(j) and energy-related incentives such as Section 179D.
• Ability to analyze complex tax issues and develop creative, compliant solutions.
• Strong research skills to interpret evolving tax laws and apply them to client-specific situations.
• Ability to mentor, train, and support the professional growth of junior staff.
• Skilled at building and maintaining strong client relationships, fostering trust and identifying opportunities for growth.
• Collaborative mindset with experience partnering with senior leaders on strategic tax initiatives.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to explain complex tax matters clearly.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple engagements, deadlines, and deliverables simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in accounting, tax, or related field is preferred.

Compensation & Benefits

This role includes a competitive base salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Comprehensive health coverage (medical, dental, and vision)
• Retirement & financial planning support (401(k) with match, financial wellness programs)
• Generous paid time off (vacation, sick time, holidays, parental leave, volunteer days)
• Flexible work arrangements (hybrid or remote options, flexible hours)
• Performance-based bonus (discretionary bonuses)
• Professional development opportunities (tuition reimbursement, certifications, mentorship)
• Career growth & internal mobility
• Inclusive and supportive culture (DEI initiatives, employee resource groups, wellness programs)