Sebastian purchases two pieces of equipment for $100,000. Appraisals of the equipment indicate that the fair market value of the first piece of equipment is $72,000 and that of the second piece of equipment is $108,000. What is Sebastian's basis in these two assets?

$100,000

Explanation:

According to the internal revenue service ''In most situations, the basis of an asset is its cost to you. The cost is the amount you pay for it in cash, debt obligations, and other property or services. Cost includes sales tax and other expenses connected with the purchase.''

Therefore Sebastian's basis in these two assets is unconnected with the fair market value of the assets but with the cost.

Purchased Equipment is always recorded at its acquisition cost or its net book value, that is after deducting the accumulated depreciation . In the scenario we have no depreciation figures, hence the basis is the cost of $100,000