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Updated almost 7 years ago on . Most recent reply

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13
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Sam Alex
  • Redmond, WA
0
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13
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how to calculate long term capital gains

Sam Alex
  • Redmond, WA
Posted

hi, 

i'm evaluating whether to sell or continue renting my previous primary residence - i'm approaching the 5 year limit after which i will have to pay long term capital gains. I'm trying to figure how much the tax might be  - is this the correct way to go about calculating capital gains? I will be taxed at the rate of 15%. 

capital gains rate = 15 %

capital gains = rate * profit

profit = sales_price - (cost_price + fees + taxes)

cost_price = original_amount_paid + cost_of_improvements

e.g:

if i originally bought a house for $100,000 and spent $25,000 over time on repairs and improvements , my cost price would be $125,000

assume i sell for $200,000

realtor fees + excise tax approx 8% of sales price = 8 % of 200,000 which is $16,000

profit = sales_price - (cost_price + fees + taxes)

profit = 200000 - (125000 + 16000)

profit = 200000 - 141000

profit = 59000

capital gains tax = 15 % of 59 000 = $8850

Is this the correct way to go about calculating long term capital gains? Given, these numbers if the house appreciates more that $8850 over the next few years, does it make sense to keep it?

Also, i had read somewhere that there is a possible Obamacare surcharge of around 2%, does this apply to everyone or only certain tax brackets / profit.

- thanks

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