Selling a home often triggers a capital gains event, but most homeowners can avoid paying this tax through specific IRS provisions. What is a real estate transfer tax, and who pays for it?

For the 2026 tax year, the primary tax consideration for residential real estate is the , which applies to the profit made from a sale. While federal law offers significant exclusions for primary residences, investment properties and quick "flips" are subject to different rules and higher rates. Tax Considerations for Sellers