Reference no: EM131679954

Question -

Chris and Jennifer purchased their home in California on January 15, Year 1, for $160,000. During their ownership they made no capital improvements. On August 1, Year 4, the couple moved to Virginia from California and rented out that home. On June 30, Year 6; the couple contracted to sell the California rental home for $437,500. For the calendar Year 6, the couple will file a joint tax return. Disregarding any depreciation recapture rules, how should they treat the sale of the home for tax purposes?

Answer: Realized gain of $277,500; not taxable due to the home exclusion.

Disregarding any depreciation recapture, Chris and Jennifer have a realized gain of $277,500. For tax purposes, this gain will not be recognized on their Year 6 tax return as it is excludable under the Homeowner's Exclusion. To qualify for the full exclusion of $500,000 for a joint return, the taxpayers must own and use the home as the principal residence for two years out of the five- year period ending on the date of the sale or exchange (and may not have any unqualified use after 2008).

I don't understand this answer. Textbook says that when there is non qualified use, such as rent, the gain recognized will be prorated to the portion of non-qualified use period. but this answer says the total 277500 is non-taxable.