As the school year draws to a close and the days lengthen, you may be one of the many homeowners who are getting ready to put their home on the market. After all, in many locales, summer is the best time of year to sell a home. However, it is important to think not only about the potential profit (or loss) from a sale, but also about the tax consequences.

Gains

If you are 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 3.8 percent net investment income tax.

To support an accurate tax basis, be sure to maintain thorough records, including information on your original cost and subsequent improvements, reduced by any casualty losses and depreciation claimed based on business use. Keep in mind that gain that is allocable to a period of ‘non-qualified’ use generally is not excludable.

Losses

A loss on the sale of your principal residence generally is not deductible. However, if part of your home is rented out or used exclusively for your business, the loss attributable to that portion may be deductible.

Second homes

If you are selling a second home, be aware that it will not be eligible for the gain exclusion. However, 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.

Learn more

If you are considering putting your home on the market, please contact us to learn more about the potential tax consequences of a sale.