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Real Estate TaxationCapital GainsONEASY

A client sells their principal residence for $800,000 after purchasing it for $500,000. How much of the $300,000 capital gain is subject to tax?

Correct Answer

D) $0 - principal residence exemption applies

The principal residence exemption eliminates capital gains tax on the sale of a taxpayer's principal residence, provided it was designated as such for all years of ownership.

Answer Options
A
$300,000 - the full gain is taxable
B
$150,000 - half the gain is taxable
C
$75,000 - only 25% of the gain is taxable
D
$0 - principal residence exemption applies

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Under the Income Tax Act, the principal residence exemption completely eliminates capital gains tax on the sale of a taxpayer's principal residence. When a property qualifies as a principal residence for all years of ownership, the entire capital gain is exempt from taxation. In this case, the full $300,000 gain is protected by this exemption, resulting in zero taxable capital gain.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

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