If you’re planning to sell your home, you may have heard about capital gains taxes—but what does that mean for you? The good news is, many homeowners can reduce or even avoid paying taxes on their profits if they meet certain requirements.
Here’s a simple breakdown of how capital gains taxes work when selling your home and how you can potentially keep more money in your pocket.
What Are Capital Gains Taxes?
When you sell your home for more than you originally paid, that profit is called a capital gain. Depending on your situation, the IRS may require you to pay taxes on a portion of that profit. However, many homeowners qualify for exclusions that can significantly reduce or eliminate what they owe.
How Much Can You Exclude From Taxes?
Many homeowners can exclude a portion of their profits from capital gains taxes if they meet the following criteria:
- If you're single, you can exclude up to $250,000 in capital gains.
- If you're married and filing jointly, you can exclude up to $500,000 in capital gains.
To qualify, you must have lived in and owned the home for at least two of the last five years before selling.
Ways to Reduce Capital Gains Taxes on Your Home Sale
Even if you don’t qualify for the full exclusion, there are ways to reduce your tax burden when selling:
1. Keep Track of Home Improvements
Did you renovate your kitchen, replace the roof, or upgrade your HVAC? Home improvement costs can be added to your home's original purchase price, reducing your taxable profit. Keep records of any major upgrades to maximize your deductions.
2. Factor in Selling Costs
Expenses like real estate commissions, title fees, and staging costs can all be deducted from your home sale profit, lowering the taxable amount.
3. Consider a 1031 Exchange (For Investment Properties)
If you’re selling an investment property and reinvesting in another, a 1031 Exchange allows you to defer capital gains taxes by rolling your profits into a new property purchase.
Why This Matters
With home values rising, many sellers are making significant profits on their sales. Understanding how capital gains taxes work—and how to reduce them—can make a huge difference in how much money you keep.
But here’s the most important part:
Always consult a tax professional or CPA to ensure you’re making the best financial decisions based on your unique situation.
Thinking About Selling? Let’s Talk!
If you’re considering selling your home, now is a great time to explore your options. Let’s chat about how you can make the most of your home sale and maximize your savings!
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