06/12/2026
Some lawmakers are exploring changes to capital gains taxes on home sales to address the ongoing housing shortage.
Currently, homeowners can exclude up to $250,000 in profits for single filers and $500,000 for married couples filing jointly when selling a primary residence. These limits have remained unchanged since 1997.
However, rising home values mean more sellers may now exceed those thresholds. Estimates suggest that about 8 million households—roughly 10 percent—could exceed the $500,000 exemption for married couples.
Supporters of potential changes argue that adjusting the rules could encourage long-time homeowners with significant equity to sell, potentially increasing housing supply. Others question whether tax adjustments alone would meaningfully address affordability challenges.
As housing policy discussions continue, proposals like these highlight the complex relationship between tax policy, housing supply, and market dynamics.
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Some lawmakers want to reduce or eliminate capital gains on home sales. Here's how that could impact housing affordability.