Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – April 29, 2009
NOT AT ARM’S LENGTH
A sale of a house is just a sale, right? Not necessarily. If you are selling your house to your children or transferring title outside the open market, then the transaction may be characterized as “not at arm’s length”. Since such a transfer may have tax consequences, you should discuss it with a tax attorney or accountant before taking action.
The transfer of title to a son or daughter may cause the parents to lose favorable property tax treatment, require the payment of state gift taxes, or have other unexpected consequences. From a capital gains point of view, it may be more prudent for children to inherit property than to receive it as a gift. The disposition of any real estate should be considered within the entire framework of your tax and estate planning.
For answers to all your real estate questions, come to someone who has experience in the business and familiarity with this area.
