How to Choose a Property Tax Accountant (And What to Expect)

A good property tax accountant doesn't just fill in your self-assessment — they actively save you money. A bad one (or a generalist who doesn't understand property) can cost you thousands in missed deductions and poor structuring advice. Here's how to find the right one.

When you need a specialist

A general accountant is fine for 1-2 simple buy-to-lets. You probably need a property specialist when:

• You have 3+ properties
• You're a higher-rate taxpayer
• You're considering buying through a limited company
• You have HMOs (more complex income/expense tracking)
• You're selling a property and need CGT planning
• MTD applies to you

What to look for

• Property portfolio experience: Ask how many landlord clients they have. You want someone who deals with SA105, Section 24, and company rental structures routinely
• Proactive advice: A good accountant contacts you before tax year-end with planning suggestions — not just after the deadline
• Qualifications: ACCA, ACA, or CIMA qualified, or a member of the Association of Taxation Technicians (ATT) or Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT)
• MTD capability: They should be using MTD-compatible software and be comfortable with quarterly submissions
• Clear fee structure: Fixed fees per tax return/service, not hourly billing that leaves you afraid to ask questions

Typical fees

• Self-assessment with SA105: £250-500 per year for straightforward portfolios
• Company accounts + Corporation Tax: £500-1,200 per year for a simple SPV
• Tax planning consultation: £150-300 per hour for ad hoc advice (incorporation, CGT planning)
• MTD quarterly submissions: Some accountants charge £50-100 per submission, others include it in annual fees

Getting the most from your accountant

• Keep good records: Better records can reduce year-end reconciliation. In your workspace, use Tendmere's Accountant role to grant finance-scoped access.
• Ask questions: A good accountant educates you. Ask why they've categorised expenses a certain way, what reliefs you're claiming, and what you could do differently
• Meet annually: A pre-year-end planning meeting (October/November) is worth more than a post-deadline scramble in January
• Be honest: Tell them about your plans — buying, selling, refurbishing, incorporating. They can only plan around what they know

Red flags

• They don't know what Section 24 is
• They advise you to claim mortgage interest as a full deduction (it's been a tax credit since 2020)
• They can't explain the difference between repairs and improvements
• They charge by the hour and are slow to respond to emails
• They don't ask about your future plans