AmyC
Expert Alumni

Deductions & credits

A business with income would trigger the SE tax. This is not a business in your opinion, it was just a flip. The IRS may disagree with you. See Earning side income: Is it a hobby or a business? 

 

Here are the options if not a business:

  • Mortgage interest is deductible on Sch A for your main home and a second home. If used as a second home.
  • Mortgage interest is deductible as interest paid on a business return.
  • Investment interest, see What Are Deductible Investment Interest Expenses

 

The property was held over a year, long term gain.

As for the basis, the cost to purchase plus improvements plus cost of sale all add together.

 

The IRS does not allow a deduction for mortgage interest paid in the basis. 

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