A seller’s net proceeds sheet is a document that estimates the amount of money a seller will receive after all closing costs have been paid. The amount of the net proceeds will vary depending on the purchase price of the property, the seller’s existing mortgage balance, the amount of real estate taxes due, and other closing costs.
The following factors affect the net proceeds of a sale:
- Purchase price: The higher the purchase price, the higher the net proceeds.
- Mortgage balance: The lower the mortgage balance, the higher the net proceeds.
- Closing costs: Closing costs can vary depending on the state and the type of transaction.
- Other expenses: Other expenses, such as real estate taxes and home warranty fees, can also reduce the net proceeds.
The net proceeds of a sale are important to capital gains tax exposure because they determine the amount of profit that is subject to tax. The seller’s taxable gain is calculated by subtracting the adjusted basis of the property from the net proceeds. The adjusted basis is the original purchase price of the property plus the cost of any improvements that have been made.
For example, if a seller sells a property for $500,000 and has an adjusted basis of $300,000, then the seller’s taxable gain is $200,000. The seller will owe capital gains tax on this amount.
The amount of capital gains tax that a seller owes will depend on the seller’s income tax bracket and the length of time that the property was held. For example, a seller in the 22% income tax bracket who held the property for less than one year will owe a capital gains tax of 22% on the $200,000 gain.
Selling a property can be a profitable transaction, but it is important to understand the factors that affect the net proceeds and how this can impact your capital gains tax exposure. By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions about when to sell your property and how to minimize your tax liability.
Here are some tips for sellers to minimize their capital gains tax exposure:
- Hold the property for at least one year: If you hold the property for at least one year, you will be taxed at the long-term capital gains rate, which is typically lower than the short-term capital gains rate.
- Make improvements to the property: Any improvements that you make to the property can increase the adjusted basis, which will reduce your taxable gain.
- Donate the property to charity: If you donate the property to charity, you may be able to claim a charitable deduction, which can offset your taxable gain.
By following these tips, you can minimize your capital gains tax exposure and keep more of the money you earn from selling your property.
Randolph is a Multifamily Investment Sales Broker with eXp Commercial servicing Multifamily Buyers and Sellers in the Greater Chicago Area.