Mort is the sole owner of rental real estate that produces a net loss of $18,000 in 2015 and $20,000 in 2016 and income of $6,000 in 2017. His adjusted gross income, before considering the rental property for the years 2015 through 2017, is $120,000, $140,000, and $90,000, respectively.
a. What is Mort's adjusted gross income for 2015, 2016, and 2017 if he qualifies as a real estate professional?
b. What is Mort's adjusted gross income for 2015, 2016, and 2017 if he actively participates in the rental activity?