Tax Benefits of Owning a Home

The tax benefits of owning a home are vital for millions of Americans across the country — including creating a sense of community, building wealth and providing financial security.

Home owners should be aware of changes to the tax code that went into effect in 2018 with The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which passed in December 2017. Despite the changes, it's important to remember that home owners can still take advantage of many tax deductions and incentives.

Understanding Tax Advantages of Homeownership

Home owners with itemized deductions on their federal income taxes can deduct 100% of their mortgage interest payments on a first and second home for up to a maximum mortgage amount of $750,000 for loan balances taken after Dec. 16, 2017. The mortgage interest deduction limit remains $1 million for mortgages that were established prior to this date, as well as for home owners who were under contract before Dec. 15, 2017, subject to certain rules.

The Mortgage Interest Statement Form 1098, which home owners receive from their lenders, shows the total amount of home mortgage interest paid during the year.

Additional Property Tax Deductions and Exemptions for Homeowners

Home owners can also take a tax deduction on a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC) if the loan is used for substantial home improvements, such as remodeling. Home owners can review the Internal Revenue Service Publication 936, which helps explain the rules for deducting home mortgage interest.

Mortgage Insurance Deduction

Mortgage insurance premiums offer another potential deduction for home owners. Generally, people who purchase a home without putting 20 percent down must buy mortgage insurance, and those premiums can also be deducted from taxable income.

Real Estate Tax Deduction

Home owners are able to deduct up to $10,000 of state and local taxes, including property taxes and the choice of income or sales taxes.

Capital Gains Exclusion

When it is time to sell a home, in many cases home owners can take advantage of tax savings opportunities when they don't have to pay capital gains tax on the profit from the sale. Under present law, married couples who have owned and occupied their principal residence for at least two of the past five years do not have to pay any taxes on the first $500,000 in profits from the sale of their home. Single filers earn up to $250,000 tax free.

It's important to keep in mind that the tax law did create important changes that could impact individuals and small businesses. You should always consult a qualified professional adviser for questions about filing your tax returns, especially when it comes to itemized deductions, property tax deductions and all other topics regarding property taxes.

Note: NAHB is providing this information for general guidance only. This information does not constitute the provision of legal advice, tax advice, accounting services, investment advice, or professional consulting of any kind nor should it be construed as such. The information provided herein should not be used as a substitute for consultation with professional tax, accounting, legal, or other competent advisers.