IRS building outside

2025 IRS Gift and Estate Tax Limits Reach Historic Highs: $13,990,000 Lifetime Exclusion and $19,000 Annual Gift Exclusion – Changes Loom in 2026

  • January 12, 2025
  • devinlucas

2025 IRS Gift and Estate Tax Limits Reach Historic Highs

The IRS has raised the lifetime gift and estate tax exclusion to a record-breaking $13,990,000 per person for 2025, with the annual gift exclusion increasing to $19,000 per recipient. These high thresholds offer a unique opportunity for substantial tax-free gifting and estate planning, but they are set to revert to much lower levels in 2026 unless Congress acts. Learn how to maximize these benefits while they last, especially if you own high-value real estate in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, or the surrounding areas.

2025 Capital Gains Tax Guide: Key Insights for Real Estate Sellers in Coastal Orange County

  • January 8, 2025
  • devinlucas

Capital Gains Tax Rates for 2025: What Home Sellers Need to Know

Planning to sell your home in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, or other high-value areas in 2025? Stay informed about the updated capital gains tax rates. For 2025, single filers can enjoy a 0% rate for gains up to $48,350, with higher rates applying to gains above this threshold. Married couples filing jointly benefit from a 0% rate up to $96,700. Learn how the IRS Section 121 Exclusion can save you $250,000 to $500,000 in taxable gains. Don’t overlook additional taxes like California’s income tax, which can push your total tax rate to 37.1%. Contact Lucas Real Estate for expert guidance on real estate sales and tax implications.

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What Is Title Insurance and Why Is It Important?

  • January 6, 2025
  • devinlucas

Discover the importance of title insurance for your Newport Beach or Costa Mesa real estate transactions. Learn how it protects your property rights, prevents legal disputes, and ensures a smooth home-buying process. Trust Lucas Real Estate for expert guidance and peace of mind.

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When Are Sellers Exempt From Certain Disclosures in California Real Estate?

  • November 19, 2024
  • devinlucas

California law requires real estate sellers to disclose known material facts about their property, even when certain exemptions apply. While some sellers—like trustees, fiduciaries, or those involved in court-ordered sales—may be exempt from completing forms such as the Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS), they are still obligated to disclose any defects that could impact the property’s value. Learn how exemptions work, when they apply, and why tools like the Exempt Seller Disclosure Form are essential for compliance. For trustees, explore our detailed guide to their specific disclosure requirements. Whether you’re selling in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, or other coastal Orange County communities, Lucas Real Estate ensures your transaction is smooth, compliant, and stress-free.

exterior of home with fall decor including pumkins!

Low-Cost Ways to Boost Your Fall Curb Appeal in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa

  • October 27, 2024
  • devinlucas

Boost your Newport Beach or Costa Mesa home’s curb appeal this fall with budget-friendly tips! From festive pumpkin displays to vibrant autumn flowers and cozy lighting ideas, make your home stand out this season. Perfect for sellers or homeowners looking to enjoy a seasonal refresh. Discover easy, affordable ways to enhance your curb appeal in our latest blog!

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6 Reasons to List Your Home During the Holidays

  • October 27, 2024
  • devinlucas

Thinking about selling your home this holiday season? The holidays offer a unique opportunity to attract motivated buyers, face less competition, and potentially close faster. From serious, end-of-year buyers to cozy holiday vibes, listing now could be your ticket to a successful sale. Discover why the holiday season might be the best time to make your move – and learn how Lucas Real Estate can help you make the most of it.

Renting Out Rooms in Your Home? You Could Still Qualify for the IRS Section 121 Deduction When You Sell

  • October 6, 2024
  • devinlucas

If you rent out rooms in your primary residence, you can still qualify for the IRS Section 121 deduction when you sell, allowing you to exclude up to $250,000 (or $500,000 for married couples) in capital gains. However, be aware of depreciation recapture rules and how renting affects your taxes. Learn more about how renting out rooms or separate units impacts your tax benefits.

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Fed Rate Cut: What It Means for Buyers in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa and Orange County

  • September 18, 2024
  • devinlucas

Fed Rate Cut: What It Means for Newport Beach and Orange County Homebuyers
The Federal Reserve’s recent 0.5% rate cut could lead to lower mortgage rates, presenting an opportunity for homebuyers in Newport Beach and Orange County to secure more favorable loans. However, with increased competition and potential delays, acting quickly may be key. Learn how this rate cut impacts mortgage rates and your buying power in today’s real estate market.

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When Are Trustees Exempt From Certain Disclosures in California Real Estate?

  • September 18, 2024
  • devinlucas

Exemptions from Seller Disclosures: Are Trustees Really Exempt?

In California, trustees often believe they are exempt from disclosure requirements when selling property. However, if the trustee has lived in or owned the property within the past year, they must still disclose known defects. This exemption is truly meant for trustees who have no personal knowledge of the property’s condition, such as out-of-state heirs. At Lucas Real Estate, we specialize in guiding trustees through these complex transactions in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa, leveraging our legal and accounting expertise. Let us help you navigate the process smoothly.

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How Offering Buyer’s Agent Compensation Can Benefit Sellers

  • August 12, 2024
  • devinlucas

Discover why offering buyer’s agent compensation can benefit sellers in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, and coastal Orange County. Learn how this strategy attracts more buyers, ensures smoother transactions, and maximizes your property’s value. Stay ahead of real estate changes with Lucas Real Estate’s expert guidance. Read more to find out how to leverage these benefits in your next sale.