England v. Commissioner

FINDINGS OF FACT.

The taxpayer is a resident of Pittsfield, Mass. In May, 1921, he purchased' as an investment a lot 160 by 260 feet, upon which was located a dwelling house, a servants’ cottage, and a stable, for which he paid $18,000. For 1921 and for several years prior thereto this property was assessed for local taxation as follows:

Land-$12,406

Dwelling-- 9, 000

Cottage and stable- 3, 000

The taxpayer had lived on a lot adjoining this property for about 16 years. The buildings on the property were in such a dilapidated condition that they could not be rented without extensive repairs and improvements. The dwelling house was uninhabitable by reason of neglect covering a period of several years. It had not been occupied for two years, and it was estimated that it would be necessary to expend $12,000 to make it suitable for occupancy. In August, 1921, the taxpayer sold the dwelling to a building contractor for $1,000, who agreed to remove it from the land. At the date of purchase the value of the land, without the dwelling, was greater than it was with the building upon it.

The deficiency is redetermined to be $7,^65.59. Order will be entered accordingly.