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How long do you need to stay in a house before selling it?

How long do I need to stay in a house before selling it? Is it a waste financially if I don't stay in it for a certain length of time? Thanks.

Asked by Bernard R | Charlotte, NC| 01-09-2023| 1,712 views|Buying|Updated 3 years ago

Answers (12)

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Lisa And Greg Harris

eXp Realty, LLC · Columbia, SC

(42 reviews)
In order to not pay capital Gains if you are making a profit in that time, it is 2 years. However, this depends on what you are hoping to accomplish. If you need to sell for a job relocation or family circumstances, I would recommend talking to an expert listing agent in your area and looking at a net sheet to determine your ultimate goal. If it is to make money for a flip, just expect to pay taxes on that.... if it is to get out even, than that depends on your market and situation.
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01-11-2023 (3 years ago)··
Scott CarlsonRising Star11 Answers
Scott Carlson

BRIX Real Estate · Maple Grove, MN

(3 reviews)
Hi Bernard, typically you want to own your home for a minimum of 2 years so when you sell it your not taxed at a higher capital gains tax rate. There are times (not often) when it makes sense to sell it before the 2 years is up, depending on what your plan is with any equity from the home. I would speak with a local realtor to get an idea on how much equity and also your tax accountant.
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01-09-2023 (3 years ago)··
Edward DavisNovice6 Answers
Edward Davis

Fathom Realty, LLC · Schertz, TX

At a minimum of 2 years is the consensus, due to potential higher tax rate or the opportunity to where you will lose money and not profit from the sale especially if you had to finance to purchase the property. May not have enough equity built in to make it worth your while. Best bet is to seek the guidance form a tax accountant or CPA for more details.
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01-09-2023 (3 years ago)··
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Mandee SearsNovice3 Answers
Mandee Sears

Keller Williams · Indianapolis, IN

(5 reviews)
Yes, 2 years is typically the minimum to avoid Capital Gains taxes though your account can advise you best! Good luck!
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01-09-2023 (3 years ago)··
Jen CavanaughNovice1 Answer
Jen Cavanaugh

Coldwell Banker Realty · Westchester, IL

(62 reviews)
You will need to stay in your home a minimum of 2 years because any financial gains you make will be taxed at a higher rate. Please check with your tax accountant for the details.
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01-09-2023 (3 years ago)··
Amanda Courtney

REP Realty Group · Fort Myers, FL

(13 reviews)
There’s no legal minimum, but staying at least two years can help avoid capital gains tax on a primary residence and offset transaction costs.
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01-09-2026 (3 months ago)··
Glenda X BozettSemi-Pro47 Answers
Glenda X Bozett

Michael Alexander Properties · Port Jefferson, NY

(4 reviews)
You will need to stay in your home a minimum of 2 years because any financial gains you make will be taxed at a higher rate. Please check with your tax accountant for the details.
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02-05-2023 (3 years ago)··
Gloria MitchellSemi-Pro42 Answers
Gloria Mitchell

Wilkinson Triad Realty · Whitsett, NC

(52 reviews)
No specific amount of time is required to stay in a house before selling it. You may be able to list and sell your home right away if you so choose. However, it can be beneficial to live in a house before selling it, as this gives you a chance to spruce it up and make necessary improvements.
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02-15-2023 (3 years ago)··
Mike SmalleganRising Star13 Answers
Mike Smallegan

Smallegan Real Estate · Grand Rapids, MI

(913 reviews)
The amount of time you should stay in your home before selling it really depends on a variety of factors, such as the current housing market conditions, your personal financial situation, and how long you have owned the property. Generally speaking, though, if you’ve only owned the house for an extremely short period of time (e.g., less than 1 year), then it may not be financially wise to sell it immediately because many buyers consider this a sign that something is wrong with the property or neighborhood. Moreover, when trying to maximize profits from selling a home quickly upon purchase (commonly known as “flipping”), waiting too long can also decrease potential returns. There is no set timeline on how long one must wait before being able to effectively flip a house; however, keeping abreast of real estate trends and changes are key for success.
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01-18-2023 (3 years ago)··
Carol SylerRising Star12 Answers
Carol Syler

Premier South · Fort Mill, SC

(28 reviews)
Hi Bernard, I am a Charlotte Realtor and would be happy to help. Everyone is correct on the 2 years to avoid capital gains on any profit you would make on the sell of your house. Calculating capital gains can be complex, and your tax advisor can answer those questions for you.
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01-24-2023 (3 years ago)··
Michael HudsonRising Star11 Answers
Michael Hudson

eXp Realty · Lake Mary, FL

Excise tax is cheaper if you reside in your home for a minimum of 2 years. However, I strongly recommend consulting with your accountant for a better understanding of the potential financial risk.
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03-15-2023 (3 years ago)··
Jake & Yuliana BondRising Star10 Answers
Jake & Yuliana Bond

RSVP Real Estate · Bellevue, WA

(13 reviews)
2 years is the consensus but really you need to do the math. Normally capital gains and the normal costs of selling the home wipe away the ability to be profitable. In the last five years in good real estate markets, we have found that rapid growth has justified selling within a year and any taxes or costs involved in the sale have been more than covered due to the sheer amount of equity gained. AGAIN THIS IS A MATH PROBLEM. So do the math for your specific situation and then make a viable decision. There is not a specific timeframe that can be adhered to everytime.
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01-15-2023 (3 years ago)··
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