How long should I live in my home before selling?
Mar 29, 2021
The answer is short and sweet. Seriously, like two words short and sweet.
BUT...because I want you to know everything there is to know about real estate, I’m gonna give you more than just a two-word answer.
Answer: Two years
Here’s why: If you live in your home as your primary residence for at least two of the past five years, you don't have to pay capital gains taxes on up to $250,000 ($500,000 for married couples) on the profit of your sale.
Let’s put some numbers to that: Say you purchased your home in 2017 for $250,000. You sold it last month for $305,000.
Because it was your full-time residence for two of the past five years you don’t have to pay capital gains tax on your $55,000 profit. That equals $8,250 (since the capital gains tax rate is 15% for most taxpayers)!
I’m no tax expert so you’ll want to run the details of your situation by an accountant or tax lawyer but man, that’s almost 10K more in your pocket if you just stick it out for two years!
If you've lived in your home LESS THAN 2 years but it hasn't appreciated that much in the last 2 years, we are in good shape.
Regardless, if you are considering a move, lets connect! I can help you decide if now is a good game plan or not. Together, we can chat about your situation and goals.
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