Surviving Spouses Face Steep Capital Gains Penalties Without Quick Home Sales

By Dina Sartore-Bodo · Realtor.com · 2026-09-28

A recent analysis from Realtor.com highlights a looming tax crisis for widowers who delay selling their primary residences. While federal law allows a two-year window to claim a higher capital gains exclusion, failing to act quickly can result in a significant tax burden as homeo

A recent analysis from Realtor.com highlights a looming tax crisis for widowers who delay selling their primary residences. While federal law allows a two-year window to claim a higher capital gains exclusion, failing to act quickly can result in a significant tax burden as homeo