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Updated on
March 16, 2024

Capital Gains

Written by: 
Landa

Capital gains refer to the profit made from the sale of an asset, such as real estate. In the context of real estate investing, capital gains are one of the primary ways investors generate returns on their investments.

Expenses undertaken to add value to a real estate property. Capital expenditures can include renovation and upgrade projects, as well as equipment costs needed to make the improvements.

When an investor purchases a property, they do so with the expectation that the property will increase in value over time. This increase in value is known as appreciation. If the investor decides to sell the property for a higher price than they paid, the difference between the sale price and the purchase price is considered a capital gain.

Capital gains can be short-term or long-term, depending on how long the investor held the property before selling it. Short-term capital gains are generated on assets held for less than a year and taxed at the investor's ordinary income tax rate. Long-term capital gains, on the other hand, are generated on assets held for more than a year and are taxed at a lower, more favorable rate.

Real estate investors can use several strategies to generate capital gains. One of the most common is to purchase properties in areas with strong potential for appreciation, such as up-and-coming neighborhoods experiencing rapid growth. Investors may also improve the property to increase its value, then sell it for a profit.

Another way investors generate capital gains is through a 1031 exchange. This tax-deferred exchange allows investors to sell a property and use the proceeds to purchase a like-kind property, deferring the capital gains tax until the new property sells. This can be a powerful tool for investors looking to continually roll over their investments and maximize their returns.

It's important to note that capital gains are subject to taxes. As mentioned earlier, short-term capital gains are taxed at an investor's ordinary income tax rate, while long-term capital gains are taxed at a lower rate. Additionally, some states may have their capital gains tax, which investors will need to be aware of.

Overall, capital gains are an important part of real estate investing, as they represent a significant source of potential returns for investors. By strategically selecting properties and using various investment strategies, investors can generate significant capital gains and build wealth over time.

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