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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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Gina Donnelly
THE DONNELLY GROUP REAL ESTATE SERVICES
1256 W. Chandler Blvd. #19
Chandler, AZ 85224
Phone 1: 480-792-9700
Fax: 480-603-3603
ginadonnelly@NUMBER1EXPERT.com

Gina Donnelly is the Designated Broker for The Donnelly Group Real Estate Services and is one of the East Valley's top selling agents. She has sold dozens of homes in the area and knows the local amenities, schools and services. She is outgoing and energetic and champions her clients by defending and maintaining their best interests while pursuing their most ardent desires. This she does with a personal enthusiasm that comes from a real enjoyment of the real estate business. Her personal style though dynamic and outgoing is based on a foundation of trust. "We're dealing with a big financial and emotional investment," she says, "and I want my clients to have complete assurance regarding my character and abilities." "My experience allows you to focus on your move while I manage your home sale and everything it entails." From initial consultation to closing the deal, Gina represents your best interests. Her plan is for her clients to “ Come home in Style”