There’s a reason many see homeownership as a vital part of the American Dream, especially when examining the way our country gathers revenue. In general, the U.S. tax code is structured in favor of those who own real estate property, through provisions such as the mortgage-interest deduction for home owners and the ability to depreciate qualified leasehold improvements for commercial buildings, as just two examples. Other measures supporting real estate investment include the like-kind exchange rule that allows investors to defer capital gains taxes on the sale of real estate property. The National Association of REALTORS® works vigilantly to protect property owners and the real estate industry whenever changes to the tax code are proposed.