The profit realized from the sale of a non-inventory asset, such as land or buildings used for business purposes, at a price higher than its original purchase price, less any allowable deductions, is a key financial concept in real estate. For example, if a company purchases an office building for $1 million and later sells it for $1.5 million after deducting allowable expenses like depreciation, the $500,000 difference represents this profit.
This profit potential serves as a primary incentive for investment in the commercial real estate sector. It can provide substantial returns, contributing to portfolio diversification and wealth accumulation. Historically, real estate has often been viewed as a hedge against inflation, with the potential for value appreciation over time. The possibility of generating substantial profit through property sales plays a crucial role in driving economic activity, stimulating development, and fostering job creation within the real estate industry.