8 most commonly asked questions about Capital Gains tax on buy-to-let property 

Do you own a property and need clarification about Capital Gains? Remember, if you own a buy-to-let property, you will likely have to pay capital gains Tax when you sell it. This tax is levied on the profit you make from the sale and is payable to HMRC. Several questions can arise in your mind regarding capital gains tax on buy-to-let property. In this blog post, we will explore some of these main points and answer common questions about capital gains tax on buying to let property. Let’s move toward the article. 

1. What Is Capital Gain? 

What kind of tax are capital gains? The answer to this question is that when you sell an asset for more than you paid for it, you have made a capital gain. The tax rules on capital gains can be complex, but if the investment is your primary home (called your ‘principal private residence’), you don’t have to pay any capital gains tax. 

There are specific inclusions and exclusions regarding Capital Gains tax on buy-to-let property. If the property is not your main home, you may have to pay capital gains Tax if you make a profit when you sell. 

 The amount of tax you pay will depend on several factors, including whether the property is residential or commercial and how long you have owned it. Moreover, You can also claim certain reliefs and allowances, which can reduce the amount of tax you have to pay. 

Capital gains tax is not usually payable on gifts of property between spouses or civil partners who live together. There are also special rules for properties left to charity in your will. 

2. What Is Buy-To-Let Property? 

When you buy a property to let out, you become a landlord. You’ll need to consider whether you want to be an accidental landlord – someone who has inherited a property or can’t sell – or a professional one. There are different rules and regulations for each. 

Buy-to-let mortgages are available from high-street banks, building societies, and specialist lenders. The minimum deposit is usually 25% of the property value, although this can vary. Buy-to-let mortgage rates are also higher than standard residential rates, so comparing deals is essential before applying. Clear? 

3. Is It Possible To Deduct A Loss From Capital Gains Tax On Buy To Let Property? 

Losses are admissible for Capital Gains Tax purposes. If you sold a buy-to-let property (or properties) for a capital gain on one (or more) but a loss on others, you can counterbalance the gain on the other buy-to-let property (or properties) with the permitted loss. 

Losses are subtracted from profits made in the same tax year when they occur. If your total taxable gain exceeds the tax-free allowance, you may deduct any unused losses from prior tax years. Isn’t it great? 

4. How Do I Know When To Pay Capital Gains Tax On A Buy-To-Let Property? 

You must pay the tax due on UK property sales on or after within 60 days of the sale’s conclusion. You won’t automatically get a Capital Gains Tax charge. A bonus tip! It would be best if you didn’t put off reporting and paying capital gains tax until you have to file a tax return. 

5. How Can I Avoid Capital Gains Tax On The Buy-To-Let Property? 

Now, here comes the exciting answer for almost every landlord that how to avoid capital gains tax on buy-to-let property. There are a few legal ways in which landlords may be able to avoid paying capital gains tax. But it is imperative to seek professional guidance when using these strategies.  

• Please keep track of all allowed costs when purchasing an investment property, as you may be able to use them to lower your capital gains tax obligation upon sale in the future. 
• Plan when to sell your buy-to-let homes. You could pay fewer capital gains tax by selling your buy-to-let property right now. 
• Buy property jointly with your spouse, or give it to them as a gift. By doing this, you’ll be able to utilize both of your CGT allowances. 
• If you have lived in your buy-to-let at any point during the time you have owned it, you may be eligible for Private Residence Relief. 

6. If I Sell My House, Do I Get a Break? 

The fact of the matter is that capital gains from the sale of your property are subject to a sizable tax break. In reality, a single filer’s profits of up to $250,000 and a married couple filing earnings of up to $500,000 jointly are tax-free. Anything exceeding those limits must be declared a capital gain on your income tax return. If you own the property and used it as your primary residence for at least two of the five years before the sale, you are generally eligible for the exclusion and can spend the revenues however you see fit. 

7. What Is The Rate Of Capital Gains Tax On A Buy-To-Let Property? 

Residential real estate is subject to a higher capital gains tax rate than other types of assets. Property is currently subject to capital gains tax on the amount of the chargeable gain at a rate of 28% for higher speed and extra rate taxpayers or 18% for basic rate taxpayers. You can learn more about how much is capital gains tax on property. 

The income tax rates and bands (excluding Scotland) for the tax year 2022–2023 are: 

Minimum Rate: £12,571 to £50,270 

More Expensive £50,271-£150,000 

Rate Surcharged Over £150,000 

8. Is There Any Tax Relief On Capital Gains Tax On Buy-To-Let Property? 

You can subtract specific expenditures and expenses from your gain when calculating your final capital gains tax bill after selling your buy-to-let property to reduce the tax you will owe. These costs could be Estate agency fees, Attorney fees, and any renovations done between buying and selling, such as additions, conversions, or changes to increase energy efficiency, which are subject to stamp duty from the original purchase. 

Moreover, to determine your total cost, you need additionally subtract any residual capital gains tax credit. 

Final Words 

You have read all the common questions regarding Capital Gains Tax on buy-to-let property. You can now avail reliefs of Capital Gains Tax on buy-to-let property. Tax filing is a complex area that needs to be done with the aid of a professional tax accountant. If you are stuck with your tax filing, you must contact Legend Financial to get your tax problems sorted in no time!