Tax Return Depressing? Owning a Home Could Help

Many Americans got some depressing news this week; either their tax return was not as large as they had hoped or, in some cases, they were told they owed additional money to either the Federal or State government or both. One way to save on taxes is to own your own home.

According to the Tax Policy Center’s Briefing Book -“A citizen’s guide to the fascinating (though often complex) elements of the federal Tax System” – there are several tax advantages to homeownership.

Here are four items, and a quote on each, from the Briefing Book:

1. Mortgage Interest Deduction

“Homeowners who itemize deductions may reduce their taxable income by deducting any interest paid on a home mortgage. The deduction is limited to interest paid on up to $1 million of debt incurred to purchase or substantially rehabilitate a home. Homeowners also may deduct interest paid on up to $100,000 of home equity debt, regardless of how they use the borrowed funds. Taxpayers who do not own their home have no comparable ability to deduct interest paid on debt incurred to purchase goods and services.”

2. Property Tax Deduction

“Homeowners who itemize deductions may also reduce their taxable income by deducting property taxes they pay on their homes.”

3. Imputed Rent

“Buying a home is an investment, part of the returns from which is the opportunity to live in the home rent-free. Unlike returns from other investments, the return on homeownership—what economists call “imputed rent”—is excluded from taxable income. In contrast, landlords must count as income the rent they receive, and renters may not deduct the rent they pay. A homeowner is effectively both landlord and renter, but the tax code treats homeowners the same as renters while ignoring their simultaneous role as their own landlords.”

4. Profits from Home Sales

“Taxpayers who sell assets must generally pay capital gains tax on any profits made on the sale. But homeowners may exclude from taxable income up to $250,000 ($500,000 for joint filers) of capital gains on the sale of their home if they satisfy certain criteria: they must have maintained the home as their principal residence in two out of the preceding five years, and they generally may not have claimed the capital gains exclusion for the sale of another home during the previous two years.”

Bottom Line

We are not suggesting that you purchase a house just to save on your taxes. However, if you have been on the fence as to whether 2017 is the year you should become a homeowner, this information might help with that decision.

Disclaimer: Always check with your accountant to find out what tax advantages apply to you in your area. 

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21278 W Glen Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$675,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,868 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747942

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the serene Main Street District of Verrado! This beautifully crafted 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence offers a perfect blend of luxury and comfort, capturing the essence of desert living. This home boasts exceptional curb appeal with its charming front porch, elegant courtyard entry, brick-paved driveway leading to the front door, and a freshly painted exterior (2024). The open-concept design is ideal for entertaining, featuring a separate formal dining area and a versatile flex space that seamlessly flows into the great room and kitchen area. The kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, including a double oven, quartz countertops, 42' espresso cabinets, a large walk-in pantry, and a butler's pantry. The spacious primary suite is a true retreat with... gorgeous mountain views and a large bath that includes a separate tub and benched shower, dual vanities, a private water closet, and a large walk-in closet. The home also offers an office space/teen room and two additional bedrooms each with walk-in closets, along with upper and lower cabinets in the laundry room for added storage. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets from your own backyard, perfect for indoor/outdoor Arizona living, with extended pavers off the patio, citrus trees, grass, and easy-maintenance gravel throughout the oversized 10,258 sq. ft. lot. Additional features include 10-ft ceilings, 8-ft doors, tile flooring in all the right areas, ceiling fans and 2 wood blinds throughout, new AC unit (2022), and a new water heater (2024). Original Homeowners. The home is prewired for outdoor speakers on the back patio. The 3-car tandem garage comes with a 1-year-old AC unit for your comfort while working on hobbies. Built by Meritage, this house is highly energy-efficient, featuring tinted UV-protected windows, climate-sealed foam insulation, and 2x6 construction. Stroll down to Main Street and enjoy all the small-town charm it has to offer with easy access to grocery shopping, restaurants, golf courses, schools, and a recreation facility. Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to make this luxurious home yours!

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22812 N Dusty Trail Boulevard Sun City West, AZ 85375

$675,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,976 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779388

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Backing to the 17th green with views of the 18th tee box and multiple fairways, this 3 bed/3 bath/PLUS a den, Sun City West masterpiece is a SHOW STOPPER!! Exterior boasts an extended patio with pergolas, planters, remote controlled screens, cool decked concrete, and huge entertaining space. Walk through the double door entry, experience the soaring ceilings, and cast your gaze through the multiple bay windows to capture the sunset views with the golf course backdrop. The downstairs master suite has two walk-in closets, jetted tub for two, separate shower, and dual sinks. SECOND MASTER SUITE is a cozy upstairs apartment with a walk-in closet and bathroom. Chef's kitchen has been updated with stunning cabinetry and GE CAFE & BOSCH appliances. The 3-way gas fireplace gives just the right ambience for any occasion. Updates include new floors, fresh paint, tankless gas water heater, water softener, garage cabinets, and RO.

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14042 N 44th Street Phoenix, AZ 85032

$675,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,937 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744174

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this 4-bedroom gem just 2 minuets from PV Reimagined, Costco, Target, and more. Step inside to find tile flooring throughout and a soothing color palette that creates a tranquil ambiance. Spacious living room flows seamlessly into the great room, highlighted by a stone-accented fireplace, perfect for cozy evenings. Kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with stainless steel appliances, white cabinets, granite counters, and a peninsula with a breakfast bar. Retreat to the main bedroom, offering direct backyard access and a private bathroom with dual sinks and unique glass block shower walls. The expansive backyard is an oasis with a covered patio, play area, and a fenced-in pool, ideal for entertaining and relaxation. Make this stunning home yours today List of 44th st home updates or improvements: 2019 - Dishwasher and Hot water heater replaced 3/10/21 - Installed new American standard HVAC July 2023 - Installed new luxury vinyl flooring in all bedrooms 3/29/24 - Full roof and vent replacement 6/2/24 - Exterior painted

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2976 E Clifton Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85295

$675,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,436 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748122

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This must be the place . . . perfect location, pristine pool, paid-off solar, and plenty of potential. This four bedroom paradise is for anyone who wants a property that has been thoughtfully maintained, while providing an opportunity to personalize. Brand new A/C, freshly painted exterior, and recent pool resurfacing are just a few of the reasons this is your next home sweet home.

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2015 E Gaffney Road New River, AZ 85087

$675,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,368 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744574

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

What a GEM! Nestled on a 2-acre corner lot, this beautiful home will impress you. Offering a desert landscape, 2-car garage, & RV parking. Discover a welcoming living room, formal dining room, and an inviting family room w/stove fireplace! Natural light filled the spaces, complemented by designer paint & wood-look flooring t/out. The exposed wooden beams give a rustic charm! The kitchen boasts tile counters & backsplash, recessed lighting, ample wood cabinetry, a breakfast bar, a walk-in pantry, and SS appliances such as a double oven. Main bedroom boasts a private bathroom & a walk-in closet. The fantastic backyard beckons with a covered patio, an exterior fireplace, & a fenced sparkling pool. The mountain views serve as a backdrop to your outdoor paradise! Don't miss it!

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21362 S 213th Place Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$675,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,921 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753111

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

YOUR QUEEN CREEK GETAWAY AWAITS! This is more than a home—it's your new happy place, perfectly situated in the heart of Queen Creek, just minutes from the QC Village Center and QC Marketplace. This home is all about style and convenience. Inside, the towering ceilings create an airy, welcoming vibe. It's a perfect place for entertainers, or anyone who loves a little extra space. The chef's kitchen is the stuff of culinary dreams, featuring chic white cabinets, granite countertops, a gas cooktop, and dual islands that make cooking and entertaining a breeze. And let's not forget the backyard—at over a quarter a quarter acre, it's big enough for a pool, a playground, a garden, and whatever else your heart desires. This home is ready for you. Are you ready for it?

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6601 N 79th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$675,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,472 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758837

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Wood Beam Vaulted Ceilings, Plantation Shutters and 2 Way Fireplace. Porcelain Wood Plank Flooring and tile throughout. Kitchen w/Stainless Steel Appliances. Granite Countertops, French Doors and Natural Bamboo Shades. Spacious Primary Bedroom with Double Door Entry and French Doors exit to Covered Patio. Walk in Closet. Custom Vanity Cabinets in Master and Guest Bath with Quartz Countertops. 2 Car Garage with loads of Storage Cabinets. Front Courtyard and low maintenance yard with hardscape. Complex has Heated Pool & Spa, Tennis Court and Next to Silverado Golf Course. Close to Old Town Scottsdale. New Water Heater 2/2020 & Roof Coated 1/2020.

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1326 N Central Avenue Unit 404 Phoenix, AZ 85004

$675,000

1 Bed

2 Baths

1,491 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748645

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Step into the heart of downtown Phoenix and discover this sleek and sophisticated loft! With its open layout and soaring ceilings, this modern architectural gem is the epitome of urban chic. Enjoy surrounding views of the city skyline and mountain ranges from your private rooftop terrace! This is the perfect opportunity to own a piece of downtown Phoenix's vibrant energy! Amenities include Secured entrance with personalized access. Gated Parking, Community Pool/Gym. Private Rooftop. Open Floor Plan. Move in ready or upgrade to your dream loft!

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219 E Palomino Court Gilbert, AZ 85296

$675,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,287 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6749829

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Luxurious Remodel in Gilbert! Discover this beautifully updated single-level home in Gilbert, offering a perfect blend of comfort and style. Recent renovations include: Master Suite: Indulge in a spa-like retreat with a separate shower, freestanding tub, & dual sinks. Modern Secondary Bathroom remodel with new fixtures & finishes including Shower/tub. Enjoy a clean & inviting home with Gourmet kitchen, granite countertops & stainless-steel appliances with lots of cabinets & pull outs. Beautiful Gas Fireplace. Beautiful New 24x48 Tile Flooring & New Carpet. Fresh Interior and Exterior paint throughout. Energy Efficiency new HVAC condenser & water heater Aug 2024. Outdoor Oasis backyard features a newly resurfaced Pool & tile. Synthetic grass for low-maintenance enjoyment. Read additional Additional Highlights Spacious 4-bedroom Split Floor plan layout, 3-car garage, Cul-de-sac, Corner lot, N/S Exposure, new ceiling fans in all rooms, covered patio. All new 4in Baseboards throughout home. Convenient location near Downtown Gilbert & Lifetime Fitness, restaurants & shopping. Don't miss this opportunity to own a stunning, move-in-ready home in a desirable neighborhood.

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36076 N Vidlak Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$675,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,939 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750864

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**Seller will consider paying some concessions for buyer to buy down their interest rate, etc. ** Wow! Almost 4000 livable square feet. This home features 4 Bedrooms plus A Den, A Loft and An Entertainment/Game Room, 3.5 Baths and a Split 3 Car Garage. Very Nice Home that is Ready for you. Granite Countertops in Kitchen. White Staggered Shaker Cabinets with Pull Handles. Gas Cooktop. Mosaic Backsplash. Big Walk In Pantry. Center Island with Breakfast Bar. Stainless Steel Appliances. Refrigerator, Washer & Dryer are All Included. Tall Baseboards Throughout. Wood Like Flooring along with Beautiful Carpeting. Inviting and Manicured Backyard with Views.

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1702 E Libra Drive Tempe, AZ 85283

$675,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,890 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754260

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This spacious 4 bedrooms, 1.75 bathrooms home is nestled on a large, corner lot at the end of a cul-de-sac with No HOA. Home has a 2 car garage, additional 2 car slab parking AND RV gate with lots of space to park an RV or recreational toys. Home features formal living and dining rooms plus a family room with wood-burning fireplace. The kitchen overlooks the family room and has granite countertops, breakfast bar and stainless steel appliances. The primary bedroom has en suite bathroom and French doors that lead to the backyard. The backyard is built for entertaining with built-in grill and bar and expansive covered patio. There is a full-on workshop in the backyard with power and lights. Convenient Tempe location and short walk or ride to K-12 schools, city parks, bus stop or Tempe's Orbit transit stop. Within a pedestrian & bike friendly community, home is a short distance the Western Canal path & Tempe Kiwanis Park. Just minutes from major shopping, dining, East Valley freeways, ASU Research Park approximately 20 minute commute to Sky Harbor Airport and so much more!

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7279 E Sunset Sky Circle Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$675,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,986 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763919

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Be amazed by this 2-bed townhome in the Winfield Resort Community! This community offers fantastic amenities like pool, clubhouse, workout facility, & many more. First time on the market. Original Owner so very well maintained North/South exposure. Living/dining room has a bay window, while a media niche & fireplace in the family area. Large kitchen with lots of cabinets. This home is being sold through sellers trust so please give 24 hours for response on any offers. Easy to show.

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