Build Better
Places

Real estate investing is rewarding in multiple ways beyond the obvious. Yes, there is the appreciating value of land and real property. But in addition, investors in new developments are helping build better places to live, work, and play.

These tax savings are a product of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. They come from a category of special real estate investment called Opportunity Zones. An Opportunity Zone is a disadvantaged community or neighborhood where, under specific conditions, property investments may be eligible for tax incentives. This can apply to investments by individuals, private equity firms, real estate investment companies and real estate investment trusts.
The goal of this program is to encourage long-term private sector real estate investment in low-income neighborhoods. This encouragement comes in the form of providing a way to invest unrealized capital gains. Now developers and investors have the chance to spur economic development in areas considered to be 'distressed communities'.

The Ultimate Investing Experience

Transforming
Neighborhoods

For the state of Texas, this means real estate investors transforming neighborhoods. These communities are enjoying a renaissance as a result. Best of all, there are considerable tax advantages to certain high-impact, high-reward investments that also benefit our community.

Since its implementation, the program has sought to foster job creation and economic stimulus in less capitalized areas. Twelve percent of America's census tracts are opportunity zones, so there is a lot of choice.

Where are these Opportunity Zones in Austin located? They are both urban and rural, industrial and residential, across the city.

Get Started

1. Temporary deferral of taxes on previously earned capital gains. Investors can place existing assets with accumulated capital gains into Opportunity Zone Funds. Those existing capital gains are not taxed until the end of 2026 or when the asset is disposed of.

2. Basis step-up of previously earned capital gains invested. For capital gains placed in Opportunity Funds for at least 5 years, investors' basis on the original investment increases by 10 percent. If invested for at least 7 years, investors' basis on the original investment increases by 15 percent.

3. Permanent exclusion of taxable income on new gains. If an investor holds for at least 10 years, they pay no taxes on capital gains from their Opportunity Fund investments. The Opportunity Fund being the investment vehicle that invests in Opportunity Zones.

Decide if Opportunity Zone Investments are Right for You

While various initiative types qualify for Opportunity Zone benefits, most investments are focused on housing, infrastructure, commercial and industrial real estate. Given the nature and needs of Opportunity Zone communities, meeting the required “substantial improvements” threshold is perfectly straightforward.

For Ballard's real estate investment initiatives in Texas, there is one caveat to Opportunity Zones that must be considered. Gains made on the sale of a Qualified Opportunity Zone investment may be subject to federal income tax. This applies when all or part of an Opportunity Zone investment is sold without being held for at least ten years.

Most Ballard real estate investments will reach their full potential and maximum yield in a shorter time frame. This means Opportunity Zone benefits may not be applicable to current Ballard offerings as other benefits will likely apply.

Get Started

Long-Term — Premiere Wealth building

Proven Track Record Since 1997.

Investors have historically received a positive return that met or exceeded expectations in every investment led by Ballard. We harness real estate's famed potential for stable returns and diversification—taking this premier asset class and introducing our simple, highly-profitable and conservative method to our select investors, helping them build wealth. At Ballard Built we take the time to connect and know each investor, matching them with the right wealth opportunity within real estate-crafting the ultimate investment experience.

Apply Now

Texas Opportunity
Zone Investments
Guide

Help Build a Better Texas While
Enjoying Tax Savings