Summer is a common time to put a home on the market. If you’re among those who are following this trend, it’s important to be aware of the tax consequences of a home sale.
If you’re selling your principal residence, you can exclude up to $250,000 ($500,000 for joint filers) of gain — as long as you meet certain tests. Gain that qualifies for exclusion also is excluded from the Affordable Care Act’s 3.8% net investment income tax.
A loss on the sale of your principal residence generally isn’t deductible. But if part of your home is rented out or used exclusively for your business, the loss attributable to that portion may be deductible.
If you’re selling a second home, be aware that it won’t be eligible for the gain exclusion. But if it qualifies as a rental property, it can be considered a business asset, and you may be able to defer tax on any gains through an installment sale or a Section 1031 exchange. Or you may be able to deduct a loss.
If you have a home on the market, please contact us to learn more about the potential tax consequences of a sale.
