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NORTON NEWSLETTER
THE REAL ESTATE TAX PRO ™
NortonAccountingServices.com 985-690-4498 Info@NortonAccountingServices.com APRIL 2025
EASE OF MIND • AVAILABILITY • FLEXIBILITY • INDIVIDUAL APPROACH • EXPERIENCE • TAX SAVINGS OPPORTUNITIES
For years, I’ve been in the business of helping clients work through major financial decisions. Whether it's purchasing real estate, structuring deals, or making investments, my job is to anticipate challenges, minimize risks, and ensure things are structured to maximize long-term financial success and to minimize taxes. But recently, I found myself on the other side of the table when I needed to find a new space for my own business. We’d been growing, and I knew we needed more room soon. An office upstairs from us had been available and seemed like a natural fit. But when I contacted our new landlord about leasing it, I found out someone had beat me to it. That told me it was time to make a long-term decision. I looked at offices around town, but the numbers weren’t making sense. A quick calculation told me I’d likely be shelling out more for rent than I would on a mortgage. If I would be paying that much money every month, why wouldn’t I buy and own the building? And that’s when I found the right place. A space a few miles up the road was available, and it had the room we needed to grow into. I made the move and bought it but encountered a few challenges I hadn’t anticipated. Permits, Delays, and Lessons Learned Once I bought the building, I started working with a contractor on minor renovations. Even though he thought we didn’t need a permit, my gut told me otherwise. Spending a few hundred bucks for a permit seemed much better than dealing with compliance issues later, especially with town hall just down the road. That decision proved to be the right one. When I applied for the permit, I found out I also needed fire marshal approval — something none of us had expected. Since the building had been a wedding venue and we were converting it into an office, we needed additional approvals. What I thought would be a quick renovation turned into weeks of permitting and compliance checks. Meanwhile, I was still paying rent at my old office while making mortgage payments on the new one, which was less than ideal. Looking back, I realize asking a few more questions upfront could have saved time. I also learned that buying commercial real estate always takes more time and money than expected. The sooner you can get ahead of regulatory requirements, the fewer headaches you’ll face. Taking the Smart Approach If you find yourself in my shoes and plan to buy commercial property, don’t underestimate the power of due diligence. Always research zoning laws, Lessons From Buying My Own Office On the Move
required approvals, and renovation challenges beforehand to avoid delays and wasted money.
Also, structure your financing wisely — traditional bank loans are not your only option. Creative financing can offer tax advantages and improve cash flow, such as owner financing and/or setting up a separate entity to own the property. I took this approach to maximize my deductions and create financial flexibility for the future. Finally, always focus on your long-term goals. A property that meets your needs today may not later. Are you expecting business growth? A little planning will ensure you don’t outgrow your space too quickly. Planning ahead also lets you turn your real estate investment into a valuable asset. Lessons From the Other Side Despite the setbacks, I have no regrets about purchasing a new building. I got exactly what we needed, and instead of paying rent to someone else, I’m investing in my own property. As a bonus, I structured the deal in a way that makes financial sense (and saves taxes!).
The experience also reinforced what I tell clients every day — big financial decisions require careful planning. If you’re weighing a major financial move, let’s talk about how to structure it in a way that makes the most sense for you.
–Bob Norton
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Protect Your Wallet and Your Pet’s Health Are You Missing Out on This Money- Saving Option? What kinds of strange things could be in your dog’s stomach? According to veterinarians, dogs find socks weirdly delicious, and at least one has swallowed an engagement ring! These stories sound funny — until it happens to you. All pet owners try to keep their dogs out of the holiday chocolate or their cats from nibbling on poisonous houseplants. Still, fewer than half have insurance to cushion the financial blow if an unexpected visit to the vet becomes necessary. Insurance is growing in popularity, with about 24% of U.S. pet owners opting for coverage, but that’s a small number given that nearly 70% of households have a pet. More people have pets than children these days! Like any family member, a pet’s medical needs should be part of the household budget. Average pet health insurance premiums are between $10 and $50 per month, with most people paying $354 annually. Additional options like dental coverage may make sense depending on your pet’s breed and habits. The cost is worthwhile compared to paying out of pocket for an unexpected surgery, up to $7,000.
Arbor Day, celebrated this year on April 25, is a chance to dig deep and nurture the environment while creating lasting memories with your kids. Rooted in the love of trees, Arbor Day is a perfect opportunity to teach your little ones the importance of caring for our planet while having fun outside. With wildfires destroying millions of acres of trees annually, the need for replanting has never been greater. Planting a tree is a hands-on way to make a difference; kids love getting their hands dirty. Plus, it’s more than just a lesson in environmental stewardship — it’s an activity that promotes exercise, teamwork, and pride in watching something grow. Start the adventure. Choose the perfect tree and location. Let your children take the lead in selecting a spot with the right amount of sunlight and plenty of room for growth. Once you’ve gathered your tools — a spade, mulch, soil, water bucket, and, of course, your tree — the real fun begins. Together, dig a hole just the right size for the root ball. While the adults may handle the more technical steps, like trimming roots that twist or grow in circles, kids can pitch in by scooping dirt and getting up close to nature. As you settle the tree into its new home, explain how the roots will anchor it and how its leaves will turn sunlight into energy. After planting, the work doesn’t stop! Teach your children how to water the tree properly — soaking the root ball without overwatering. Build a mulch ring together and explain its purpose in keeping the roots cool and moist. Then, it’s time to watch it grow! Chart the journey ahead. Planting a tree is just the beginning of a long-term adventure. Encourage your kids to measure the tree’s growth, sketch its leaves, and write about its progress in a journal. Snap photos together to document its transformation, and talk about trees’ vital role in providing oxygen, shade, and habitat for all of us. This Arbor Day, take a moment to plant more than a tree — plant a memory. Working together as a family teaches lessons in responsibility, environmental care, and the joy of nurturing life. Plus, the smiles and laughter along the way? Those are the real treasures. CREATE LASTING FAMILY MEMORIES THIS ARBOR DAY LEAF A LEGACY AND PLANT A TREE!
Pet insurance is just like many human health insurance plans. When you take your insured pet to the veterinarian, you pay the bill upfront and then file for reimbursement
with the insurer. Pet policies fall into three general areas — illness and wellness check-ups, only well check- ups, or accident-only coverage — but they can be combined.
You can save money by comparing the coverages of large insurance carriers against pet- specific carriers. You can also ask your current insurer about bundling coverage with your renter’s, auto, or
homeowner’s policies. They may even have a discount for enrolling multiple pets. To ensure you
get the right policy, find out what is excluded from coverage, like preexisting conditions. It can be helpful to confer with your vet first about your pet’s medical needs for a good fit. Medical care is essential for pets. Budgeting insurance coverage for them can save your sanity and wallet if an emergency arises. Without it, a simple accident can really blow a hole in your finances.
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Rescue, Comfort, and Reunion
HOW HARLEY BECAME A REAL-LIFE HERO
Everyone likes to believe their canine companions would jump into action if they noticed someone or something in danger. However, most dogs will never be in a position to save a life or avert a catastrophe. That’s probably a good thing, as watching one of your best friends risk their life for others would be incredibly stressful. In 2021, a Virginia family experienced precisely that as they witnessed their goldendoodle attempt a heroic rescue with a heartwarming aftermath. During an early summer evening, Ralph Dorn’s dog, Harley, was gone. He started surveying the lake behind his Culpepper, Virginia, home when he spotted the goldendoodle about 200 feet from shore. At first, he wondered what his dog was doing in the water, but he soon realized his trusty pup was not alone. Harley was swimming alongside a tiny baby deer.
deer’s mother, Dorn escorted his heroic canine indoors. The fawn and mother walked away, seemingly never to be seen again. That was, until the next morning.
Harley appeared restless that morning, running from window to window. Dorn opened the front door to see that the deer had returned, eager to thank its rescuer! The two ran toward each other, touching noses and sniffing one another. The brief reunion was enough to calm the fawn and Harley down, and Dorn has not seen either deer since that day. We can all hope our dogs would take the same actions as Harley if presented with a similar opportunity!
"Not sure how the fawn got out there, but Harley obviously didn't ask why. He just jumped into action," Dorn wrote in a Facebook post.
Harley helped the fawn to shore, where Dorn helped them climb back onto dry land. Once the deer was out of the water, Harley immediately started licking the fawn to comfort and calm it down. After spotting the
Low-Sugar, No-Bake Cheesecake
TAKE A BREAK
Inspired by AllRecipes.com
Ingredients
• 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs • 3 tbsp butter, melted • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cup milk • 1 (1 oz package) sugar-free cheesecake-flavored instant pudding mix • 2 pints fresh strawberries, sliced
1. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Press evenly into an 8-inch pie pan. Refrigerate until set. 2. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat cream cheese, then add milk and blend until smooth. 3. Add pudding mixture to cream mixture and blend on low speed until completely mixed. 4. Spoon half the filling over the crust, add a layer of strawberries, then spread the rest of the filling over them and top with remaining strawberries. 5. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Directions
ARBOR ARIES
CHOCOLATE DAISY DIAMOND FOOLS
GARDEN KITE RAINBOW SHOWERS
BASEBALL CHERRIES
985-690-4498 • 3
Norton Accounting Services, LLC
THE REAL ESTATE TAX PRO ™
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
NortonAccountingServices.com 985-690-4498 Info@NortonAccountingServices.com
1527 Gause Blvd. Ste. 132 Slidell, LA 70458
INSIDE 1 What My Office Move Taught Me 2 The Shocking (and Avoidable) Cost of Uninsured Veterinary Bills Planting Memories and Trees This Arbor Day 3 Heroic Goldendoodle Saves Baby Deer in Heartwarming Rescue Low-Sugar, No-Bake Cheesecake
4 Mastering the Art of Nature Photography
QUICK TIPS FOR BETTER OUTDOOR PHOTOS Capture Nature’s Beauty Like a Pro
Consider Composition In photography, composition is key. When taking nature photographs, apply compositional rules such as the rule of thirds (placing subjects off-center), leading lines (guiding the eye with pathways or rivers), and framing (using natural elements to highlight the subject). Experimenting with different perspectives and angles can also add depth to your photos. Be Respectful Whenever you’re out in the field, respect the environment by following local guidelines, maintaining a safe distance from wildlife, and minimizing your impact on natural habitats. Always stay on designated paths and never remove any natural objects. Following a few simple rules protects wildlife and the landscape and maintains the integrity of your photography. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to enjoy the outdoors while capturing images that reflect the beauty of the natural world.
Nature photography offers a great way to get outside and capture the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re new to this hobby or have been snapping photos for years, you can always enhance your skills with these four tips for producing compelling outdoor photos. Plan Ahead Before heading outside with your camera and other gear, research your chosen location and the subject you aim to photograph. Understanding the local wildlife, plant life, and weather conditions can inform your equipment selection. Timing is also key. Early morning and late afternoon, known as the “golden hours,” offer soft, diffused light that enhances natural scenes. Master Your Equipment Be sure to familiarize yourself with your camera’s settings. Some of the most important include aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, which control exposure and depth of field. For instance, a wide aperture (low f-stop) can help create a shallow
depth of field and isolate your subject from the background, which is particularly effective for wildlife photography. Conversely, a narrow aperture (high f-stop) is ideal for landscape shots because it increases the depth of field and helps keep more of the scene in focus.
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