The Realized Team’s Picks

Are Capital Gains Considered Earned Income?

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When you ponder the world of investing and tax planning, the distinction between various types of income becomes crucial. For investment property owners navigating their portfolio's tax implications, the question often arises: Are capital gains considered earned income?

Feb 5, 2026

How Much Unearned Income Is Taxable?

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Navigating the taxation of unearned income can be a nuanced journey, especially for investment property owners who often rely on passive income streams for financial growth and security. Unearned income, by definition, originates from sources where the recipient isn't actively participating, unlike wages or salaries. This type of income includes dividends, interest, rental income, and capital gains, among others. Given its distinct nature, unearned income is typically subject to different tax treatment compared to earned income.

Feb 5, 2026

How To Avoid Kiddie Tax

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For investment property owners, planning for your children’s financial future can be a lucrative endeavor, but there are tax implications to consider, such as the kiddie tax. The kiddie tax laws aim to prevent parents from shifting income to their children to take advantage of lower tax brackets. Understanding and strategically managing this tax can help savvy investors preserve more of their wealth.

Feb 4, 2026

What Is the Tax on Investment Income?

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Investing in rental properties and other assets can be a rewarding endeavor not just for the potential passive income, but also for the capital appreciation over time. However, with the benefits come certain tax obligations that investors must navigate. One such tax is the Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT), which is particularly relevant for high-income earners with significant investment income.

Feb 4, 2026

How Am I Taxed When I Sell My Business?

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Selling a business can be a pivotal moment for any business owner, offering an opportunity to reap the rewards of years of hard work. However, it's also a moment that comes laden with complex tax implications, which need careful consideration to ensure the financial benefits are maximized. Here's what you need to know about the taxation process when you sell your business.

Feb 3, 2026

How To Calculate Capital Gains Tax On Property

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For investment property owners, understanding how to calculate capital gains tax is crucial for maximizing profits when selling real estate. Capital gains tax is levied on the profit derived from the sale of property or an investment. Often, this concept is discussed in hushed tones resembling a complex Wall Street strategy, but it doesn’t need to be overly complicated.

Feb 3, 2026

What Are The Tax Consequences Of Selling A Second Home?

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Selling a second home can be a rewarding venture, providing the potential to benefit from an appreciated real estate market. However, it also comes with specific tax consequences that savvy investors should understand. Whether you're considering selling a vacation home or a rental property, it's crucial to grasp the implications to manage your financial strategy effectively.

Feb 2, 2026

How Much Tax Do I Pay If I Sell Land?

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For investment property owners, selling land is often a significant financial decision that involves critical tax implications. Here's a comprehensive look at what you need to know about taxes when selling land.

Feb 2, 2026

Delaware Statutory Trusts vs. Non-Traded REITs: Structural Differences Explained

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Many passive real estate investment options exist nowadays, providing investors with a wide range of choices based on their needs and investment goals. Two popular avenues are Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) and non-traded real estate investment trusts (REITs). Both offer benefits like passive income and enhanced diversification, but they have fundamental structural differences that affect 1031 Exchange eligibility, liquidity, cash flow, and lots of other critical considerations.

How DSTs Fit Into a Broader Passive Real Estate Portfolio

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For many investors, building a passive real estate portfolio is an end goal. It’s how you keep earning income after retirement while also securing your wealth for future generations. There are many types of real estate assets that can help you create a passive portfolio, and Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) are one of the most strategic additions.

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