Friday, January 29, 2016

Major Tax Issues Every Seller of Real Estate Needs to Know




  • Increase in the exclusion from capital gains tax on the sale of principle residence from $125,000 in capital gains to $500,000 for filing joint taxpayers ($250,000 exclusion of profit for single taxpayer). This exclusion can occur every 2 years.  The repetitive ability is a great opportunity to buy and sell a principle residence and either move up or buy down.  There is no age restriction on who is eligible for this exemption.

  • First-time and repeat home buyer incentives:
  • Save income in a tax-deferred IRA account with the purpose of saving for a down payment and a withdraw down payment at any time without penalties for early withdrawal.
  • Parents can save money in a tax-exempt savings account for the purpose of assisting children with a down payment for housing.

  • Investments in real estate.
  • Reduction in capital gains tax rate from 28% to 20%.  This will increase the profitability of a real estate holding.
  • For these or any other tax law issues be sure to contact your accountant or tax adviser for further information and details.