Tax Benefits of Buying Real Estate Before Year-End

Mortgage Interest Deduction

As the calendar year draws to a close, the real estate market often presents unique financial opportunities for buyers. Beyond securing a new home or investment property, purchasing real estate before year-end can offer significant tax advantages. Mortgage interest deduction is one of the most notable tax benefits of homeownership. If you close on a property before December 31, you can deduct the interest paid on your mortgage for the portion of the year you owned the home. According to the IRS, this deduction applies to primary residences and second homes, with limits up to $750,000 of mortgage debt for loans issued after December 15, 2017. Closing in December allows you to claim a portion of the year's interest, reducing your taxable income.

Property Tax Deduction

Purchasing a property by year-end enables you to deduct property taxes paid at closing. This deduction is particularly advantageous for buyers in high-tax states. The current tax law caps the combined deduction for state and local taxes, including property taxes, at $10,000 annually. Buyers in high-tax areas should consider this deduction to maximize their tax savings. Additionally, if you pay points to secure a lower interest rate on your mortgage, these costs can be deductible in the year of purchase. The IRS considers points as prepaid interest, making them eligible for deduction under certain conditions. It is advisable to consult with your lender and tax advisor to ensure points paid at closing qualify for immediate deduction.

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Depreciation Benefits for Investment Properties

For those purchasing investment properties, depreciation is a significant tax advantage. Depreciation allows you to deduct a portion of the property’s cost over its useful life, typically 27.5 years for residential properties. Acquiring an investment property before year-end enables you to start claiming depreciation for the current tax year. Investment property buyers can leverage depreciation to offset rental income and reduce overall tax liability. Furthermore, if the property you purchase includes energy-efficient upgrades or meets specific environmental standards, you may qualify for federal tax credits. The Residential Clean Energy Credit, for instance, offers incentives for homes with solar panels, wind turbines, or geothermal systems. Energy-efficient properties provide long-term savings and immediate tax benefits.

First-Time Homebuyer Tax Advantages

First-time homebuyers may be eligible for additional tax benefits, including penalty-free withdrawals from retirement accounts to fund a down payment. The IRS allows up to $10,000 in penalty-free withdrawals from IRAs for first-time home purchases. First-time buyers can combine multiple tax benefits for substantial savings. Purchasing a new property by year-end can also help with capital gains tax planning. If you’re selling an existing property, reinvesting the proceeds into a new home or investment property may qualify you for a 1031 exchange, deferring capital gains taxes. Coordinating property sales and purchases to optimize tax outcomes can be highly beneficial.

Planning Your Purchase

To maximize these tax benefits, it’s essential to consult a tax advisor, as each buyer’s situation is unique, and a professional can provide tailored guidance. Working with a real estate agent ensures a timely closing to capture year-end tax advantages. Staying informed about current and upcoming tax regulations is also vital, as these can impact the benefits available to you.

Conclusion

Purchasing real estate before year-end offers a range of tax benefits that can significantly enhance your financial position. From mortgage interest deductions to energy-efficient property credits, these incentives make the holiday season an opportune time to invest in real estate. By acting strategically and consulting with professionals, you can close the year with valuable savings.

Millennials Drive Housing Market.

References

1. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - www.irs.gov

2. National Association of Realtors (NAR) - www.nar.realtor

3. U.S. Department of Energy – Energy Tax Credits - www.energy.gov

4. Freddie Mac – Mortgage Rates Overview - www.freddiemac.com

5. Zillow First-Time Homebuyer Guide - www.zillow.com

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