What is meant by the term 'Recapture' in real estate?

The term 'Recapture' in real estate specifically refers to the repayment of capital return of the investment. In the context of real estate investments, recapture typically addresses the tax implications when an investor sells property that has depreciated for tax purposes. When the property is sold, the amount of depreciation taken can be “recaptured,” which means that the investor is required to pay taxes on that portion of the profits that were previously sheltered by depreciation deductions.

This concept is crucial for investors to understand as it influences their overall tax liability when they exit an investment. Understanding recapture helps real estate investors in their financial planning and in making informed decisions regarding the timing of property sales and potential reinvestment strategies.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the meaning of recapture. Appreciation of property over time pertains to the increase in the property's value, an increase in rental income reflects cash flow performance, and the assessment of property taxes relates to the determination of how much tax is owed based on property value, none of which pertain to the repayment of capital return specifically associated with past depreciation deductions.