Building wealth through buying real estate

An Introduction to Capital Gains Tax | 1 of 4

May 28, 20243 min read

In this 4 part series, we are going to explore the potential of using real estate investments to build wealth, while shedding light on the important topic of capital gains taxes.

By understanding the strategies and benefits outlined here, you will be equipped to embark on the easiest way to become a successful real estate investor without the headaches or heartaches of “full-time” real estate investors.

Here's how this is going to shake out. Because I want to get clear on Capital Gains tax but also need to set the backdrop for an easy to follow plan, I'm going to address this in 4 parts.

  • Part 1. This post. This post i'm just going to tease out how to navigate capital gains taxes.

  • Part 2: We'll go over your first real estate investment: buying your primary residence.

  • Part 3: Working the Plan: setting you up for long-term success in real estate investment.

  • Part 4: Maximizing Profit and Minimizing Taxes: Advanced Simple Real Estate Strategies and circle back to more info on Capital Gains Taxes.

    Let's jump in.

Capital Gains Tax is inevitable, almost…

Look. There aren’t any shortcuts, no cheat codes, no real ways to skirt paying your taxes. Accept 3.

  • 2-in-5 Rule (IRS Section 121 Exclusion). This surprises a lot of small investors and accidental landlords.

  • Don’t Sell - Refinance. (you’ll still pay capital gains when you sell though, and this doesn’t adjust your cost basis…)

  • (Your cost basis is the price you paid for the property. Capital gains are calculated by subtracting this cost from the selling price to determine the net gain.)

  • 1031 Exchange - which is a tax deferment strategy, not a get-out-of-jail-free card.

We’ll dive into all that in the coming posts.

Just know, to make any strategy work, you have to start. It's good to have a plan, but taking action is better. If you already own the roof over your head, you are well on your way. Own your own home and a rental, even better.

Understanding capital gains taxes and the basic strategies to manage them is crucial for any real estate investor.

Here's what happens next: Stay tuned for the next post where we'll dive into your first real estate investment: buying your primary residence.


If you're making a move, reach out, and lets chat. Happy to brainstorm and come up with a solution that gets you a tangible and actionable plan that fits your unique situation.

Best,

Justin H Gazabat
Broker | PNW, Seattle, Ballard, East Side
Your Friendly Seattle Neighborhood Real Estate Professional.

www.JustinGazabat.com

P.S. I sincerely appreciate your continued trust and generous support of me and my business. It truly means the world to me when you think to connect me to your friends, family, and co-workers. 

P.P.S. If anyone in your social or work circles is considering a move, just send an intro text or email with their best contact info, make sure everyone is CC’d and I’ll take care of the rest!   I promise to take great care of them, serve them well, make you look really good in the process. Plus help them get great results! Referrals are crucial to our business, and we genuinely value the opportunity to serve you and your network.

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