Having been audited twice in my commission only lifetime, for better or worse, I don't even consider anything marginal. I only use what I have in black and white, no grey areas of any kind. 

Best to check with your accountant.  They'll be better able to advise on tax laws than a realtor could.

sure, take as many deductions as you feel comfortable with.  Rral Estate agents are the most highly audited bunch out there.  Just be smart.

As with all things tax related the answer is maybe. Everyone's tax situation is different.

Celia,

Our accountant is up on the latest and greatest, that is why we use a pro, and we have a peace of mind to go out and earn our living. A

Hi Celia, we have used the simplified home office deduction for years and I don't have to keep records of utility and insurance bills, property taxes,  and figure depreciation, etc.  There is no recapture tax on depreciation when selling the home with the simplified deduction. 

As a self-employed real estate professional all I need is a tape measurer to measure my dedicated office space in our home  to calculate square footage and multiply by $5.   The maximum space allowed is 300 sq. ft.  Is this a great country or what?????

Have you set up an actual office in your home?  There are many govt and other publications out there that detail what is required.

I'll pass on that deduction ... thank you.  I have worked from home for 18 years and never took a home office deduction.  I follow the guidance of my CPA ... who I trust. 

Very few people on this forum (if any) are qualified to give tax advice.  Perhaps you would get better answers on a CPA forum or talking to your personal tax advisor.

Sure, if that office is used 100% for business. The IRS defination of 100% does not align with common sense, so it may be best to use the standard.
My suggestion is to stay below the thresholds. Be aware the IRS has only one tool, so don't be the nail that gets hammered. YOU CAN NOT WIN, even if you win.

Definitely consult with a tax pro but I will add that I attended a class on tax deductions yesterday and there is a LOT of misinformation out there re: the home office.  I'm not a tax pro but my understanding is that you can definitely claim it -- but as with anything, there are stipulations.  Good luck! 

A seasoned, local tax accountant can advise!

Would always recommend talking to your CPA about this. There are definite downsides to this, esp if you own your home. I believe it conflicts w/ other deduction. check w/ your CPA.  I am not deducting and have worked from home for years.  My CPA advised against this. Always talk to the pros.

Last tax year I did take the home office deductiion.  Suppose I will again this year.  I don't try to pad my expenses at all, keeping it simple. 

 Talk to a CPA.   You may find out that the risk is not worth the small amount of money saved.   (See the many answers on this page from people who have been targeted by the IRS).

We consult of CPA before we take any deductions.  She up on the latest rules and info.

Celia ~ You should really speak with your tax advisor on this, but the IRS does have a "safe harbor" deduction for this.  That deduction has limitations on the amount, but it has a $1,500 max deduction calculated at $5 per sq ft (300 sq ft max).  On the upside, there is no recapture with taking this deduction.

https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/simplified-option-for-home-office-deduction

Sure, just get yourself an audit. 

Talk with your CPA about your personal tax situation.

I would suggest that you consult with your CPA

I know it changed in the last 2-3 years ?

Yes, you have always been able to claim a home office.

For details, talk to a tax expert...which none of us are.

Yes, but check with your accountant as to how much you can claim. Usually, percentage of home that you actually use, e.g. specific room, not the whole house. That goes for internet use, electricity and so on.