Queens Real Estate For Sale

The tax benefits of owning both a first and second home can be significant, with the IRS allowing taxpayers to deduct interest and property taxes on both properties as itemized deductions on their tax returns, albeit with certain limitations. Interest deductions are limited to the amount of debt incurred to buy, build, or improve the first and/or second home, with a maximum cap of $750,000. Property taxes, falling under the limitation of state and local taxes as set forth in the TCJA of 2017, are capped at $10,000 per year. However, while second homes enjoy these benefits, they do not qualify for the Section 121 exclusion sale of principal residence rules. These rules only apply to a taxpayer's principal residence, allowing couples filing jointly to exclude up to $500,000 of capital gain from the sale of their primary home, and single filers up to $250,000 of gain, provided they have owned and used the property as their principal residence for two out of the five preced...

The gain on the sale of your home is determined by the price you sell the home, less selling expenses, less the price you paid for it, plus the capital improvements made during the time you owned the property. IRS and accounting use the term "basis" to describe your cost in the home.   It is a dynamic number that changes over time based on capital improvements that are made and capital losses that are incurred.   What is called the tax basis may better be referred to as cost basis.   It is the taxpayer's cost in the property used to determine the tax on the gain of the sale. The calculation begins with the purchase price of the property plus certain capitalized acquisition costs that were owed by the seller but were paid when purchased.   Examples would include real estate taxes owed through the day before the sale date, back interest owed by the seller, and charges for repairs that were the seller's responsibility.   Capital improvements ...

Owning a home has long been considered a fundamental part of the American dream. It represents far more than just having a place to live�it embodies values, aspirations, and a sense of security. Here's why homeownership is widely regarded as a key component of the American dream: Stability and Roots: Owning a home provides a sense of stability and roots in a community. It allows individuals and families to establish themselves, put down roots, and create a sense of belonging. Wealth Building: Homeownership is often seen as a pathway to wealth building. By building equity over time, homeowners have the potential to accumulate wealth, establish financial security, and pass down assets to future generations. Personalization and Pride: Homeownership grants the freedom to personalize and customize a space according to personal taste and style. It offers a sense of pride and accomplishment, as homeowners can create a place that truly reflects their identity and values. Co...

Are you in the market for a new home and wondering which mortgage option is right for you? While the world of home financing offers a surplus of choices, one option often overlooked is the Adjustable Rate Mortgage, or ARM. If you're in a market where interest rates are trending lower, an ARM could be the key to significant savings and financial flexibility. The problem is simple, while you're waiting for interest rates to come down, the price of homes are still going up.   Any savings from the lower interest rate could more than be offset by the increase in purchase price due to appreciation.   Buying at today's prices with an interim loan might be the answer. Picture this: You've found your dream home, and it's time to secure financing. An ARM often starts with a lower initial interest rate than a fixed-rate mortgage. This means your monthly payments will be more manageable from day one, allowing you to allocate your budget wisely. In a market wher...

Downsizing can be a significant life transition for any age person, but especially for seniors who may have lived in this last home for some time. Follow these suggestions to make the downsizing process smoother and less stressful. Start Early: Begin the downsizing process well in advance of your planned move. Give yourself plenty of time to make decisions and avoid feeling rushed. Assess Your Needs: Evaluate your current and future needs in terms of space, accessibility, and location. Consider factors like health, mobility, and proximity to family and healthcare facilities. Create a Plan: Develop a comprehensive downsizing plan that outlines your goals, priorities, and a timeline for each task. Having a plan will keep you organized and focused. Declutter: Go through your belongings room by room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. Be realistic about what you truly need and use regularly. Seek Professional Help: Consider hiring a professional organizer, downsizing...

Who wouldn't want to reside in a beautiful neighborhood adorned with meticulously manicured lawns? While some homeowners relish the thought of working on their yards, others may not share the same enthusiasm. If you've ever contemplated the idea of installing artificial turf, also known as fake grass, as a part of your landscape, it's essential to consider both its advantages and drawbacks. Let's Begin with the Advantages: Modern advancements in artificial turf technology have rendered it nearly indistinguishable from real grass, offering an evergreen and perpetually lush appearance to your landscape. One of the most significant perks of artificial turf is the elimination of the need for regular mowing and trimming. This translates to potential cost savings by reducing monthly expenses associated with professional yard maintenance. Artificial lawns are highly durable and can endure for up to two decades with minimal upkeep. Many manufacturers incorporate...

Imagine looking around your home and wondering how you can make it shine during those crucial showings. The answer is simple: staging! It's a powerful tool that can transform your property and raise its appeal. Your online listing photos serve as the initial showcase for potential buyers. Staging plays a crucial role in enhancing these images, making them more captivating and inviting. It sets the stage, quite literally, for a positive first impression. When buyers scroll through your listing, professionally staged rooms catch their eye, drawing them into the story your home tells. Staging isn't just about creating a visually pleasing environment; it's about sparking an emotional connection. A well-staged home exudes warmth and welcome, making it easier for buyers to picture themselves living there. It's a canvas upon which they can paint their own future, creating an emotional bond with the space that lingers long after the showing ends. The numbers don...