Munsch Hardt’s Opportunity Zone Team helps developers, investors, fund managers and Qualified Opportunity Zone Businesses realize the full benefits of the Opportunity Zone Program. As outlined in the 2017 federal tax overhaul, investors can postpone, decrease and all together eliminate capital gains taxes by making long-term, qualified investments in designated, low-income neighborhoods. Our attorneys have studied this program since its inception, and we have played an instrumental role in structuring and closing many of the first Opportunity Zone projects in Texas and across the country.
As one the largest real estate teams in the Southwest, our Opportunity Zone attorneys leverage their combined knowledge of real estate, finance, tax and corporate law to help clients determine the right approach and application for their future investment.
A few of our specific service offerings include:
- Forming Qualified Opportunity Funds and Qualified Opportunity Zone Businesses
- Analyzing Opportunity Zone investment opportunities
- Assisting clients with both debt and equity financing, including the establishment of public-private partnerships
- Representing clients in the acquisition, development, operation and sale of properties in Opportunity Zones, including all related real estate and construction matters
- Advising on clients’ investments in businesses and partnerships in Opportunity Zones or the divesture of those interests
- Providing tax planning and advice on matters related to these investments
Our team frequently uses the Opportunity Zone Program in tandem with other local, state and federal incentives for investments in distressed communities. These incentives include programs such as the Historic Tax Credit (HTC), Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) programs with which our attorneys have extensive experience.
Finally, as this is a relatively new and evolving program, our attorneys continue to closely monitor Opportunity Zone rules and regulations on behalf of our clients. For more information, please click here for the Treasury Department’s resources webpage, and click here for an interactive map of the designated Opportunity Zones in each state.