The Real Estate Investment Strategy You Need to Know About

By Shawn Manderscheid

As a licensed Real Estate Professional for 25+ years, consistently performing in the Top 1% of Houston Realtors, Shawn is truly a treasure in the real estate field.

Investing in real estate has been a passion of mine for many years, and today, I want to share the incredible financial opportunities it offers, especially when it comes to your homestead. Whether you’re buying a home for yourself or looking to invest in additional properties, real estate presents a unique chance to make tax-free profits.

The key lies in understanding the federal income tax guidelines that exempt you from paying capital gains taxes on your primary residence. If you’ve occupied it as your main dwelling for two out of the last five years, any profit made upon selling becomes tax-free. This tax advantage makes real estate one of the most lucrative and tax-efficient investments available.

In the vast landscape of investments, few opportunities allow you to generate tax-free income. Houston, where I’m based and actively buying and selling homes, stands out as a stable and resilient real estate market. Regardless of media narratives about the national real estate scene, Houston’s values generally remain solid. It’s a place where investments don’t traditionally lose money, and wise decisions can lead to significant profits.

What does this mean for buyers? Our focus extends beyond the aesthetics of a property; we help buyers make informed decisions that align with their financial goals. When you make a strategic investment and decide to sell after a few years, you can potentially pocket substantial gains. Moreover, if you choose to convert your property into a rental or leverage its value in a growing Houston neighborhood, you can still benefit from tax exemptions by selling within three years after moving out.

Avoiding capital gains tax, which could eat into your profits significantly, is a game-changer. Imagine turning a $50,000 profit into $50,000 in your pocket rather than seeing a portion of it go to the federal government in taxes.

As someone who appreciates the business side of real estate, I find immense joy in helping buyers make wise decisions and regularly reaping the rewards of my own investments. Living in a property for at least two years before selling has become a common practice for me, aligning with the tax guidelines and ensuring maximum profitability.

By understanding and leveraging the tax exemptions available, you can turn your real estate ventures into a tax-free financial success story. So, the next time you consider a real estate investment, think not only about the property but also about the tax advantages that come with it. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out by phone or email.