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"I'm in California..."
"Life circumstances caused me to make a huge move to California to be near my son and his family, but I was in a dilemma as to what to do with my house here in Great Valley. It used to be a bed and breakfast so it was a unique property to say the least. Larry and Louise found a buyer, we negotiated the price after several offers and counter offers. It was very stressful and emotional, but we got through it. I have to thank Larry and Louise for keeping me calm, up to date on all the details, and completing the deal!"
D. Hutton, California
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First Time Buyers >Your Principal Residence
The Federal Tax Code allows married taxpayers to exclude from capital gains taxes up to $500,000 in profits from selling a home (singles can exclude $250,000). In order to qualify for this exemption, you must prove that that the home has been your principal residence for at least two out of the last five years. The establishment of the home as a principal residence depends on the facts of each homeowner's circumstance. Here are two cases to consider.
Homeowner A has lived at 25 Pine Drive for 12 years. Although he stays at his vacation cottage in another town for up to three months out of each year (sometimes more), 25 Pine Drive is his principal residence, where he lives most of the time. When he sells the home, Homeowner A (filing as a single individual) can keep up to $250,000 in tax-free profit.
Homeowner B buys 108 Maple Street, intending to live there. He rents it out while waiting to sell his current home, where he has lived for six years. His principal residence sells at the end of two years. Homeowner B moves into his new house, lives there for three months, and then decides to travel. After a six-month trip, he regrets buying 108 Maple Street and sells it. Even though he has owned the house on Maple Street for over two years, it won't qualify as "owner-occupied", because he only lived in it for a few months. Thus Homeowner B is not eligible to claim the tax exemption when he sells the house on Maple Street.
Consult your tax advisor for advice about your particular circumstance.
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| Q |
What oceanfront area is currently the most popular choice among people searching for second homes and vacation homes?
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| A |
According to statistic published early in 2005, the Florida coast is the most sought-after vacation and retirement destination in the United States.
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