What taxes do you pay if you inherit a house?
Sarah Garza
Updated on March 12, 2026
The bottom line is that if you inherit property and later sell it, you pay capital gains tax based only on the value of the property as of the date of death. Example: Jean inherits a house from her father George. He paid $100,000 for it over 20 years ago.
What to do with a house you inherited?
If you inherited the home with siblings or other heirs, you may need to buy them out of their shares, which could mean an even larger mortgage going forward. On the upside, federal rules require mortgage lenders to work with you if a relative has passed away and you’ve inherited the house.
Can I live in an inherited house?
When you inherit a property, you’ll have to decide if you’re going to sell it, rent it out, or live in it. You may also have to pay tax on the property. If you inherit part of a property you’ll need to take joint decisions with the other owner(s).
What do you need to know about inheritance in Massachusetts?
In this detailed guide of Massachusetts inheritance laws, we break down intestate succession, probate, taxes, what makes a will valid and more. Loading Home Buying Calculators How Much House Can I Afford? Mortgage Calculator Rent vs Buy Closing Costs Calculator Helpful Guides Home Buying Guide Veteran Home Buying Guide Compare Rates
Can a non US citizen inherit an estate in Massachusetts?
If an individual you want to make an heir to your estate is not a U.S. citizen, Massachusetts law will not impair him or her from inheriting. Even illegal residents in the U.S. are granted these rights. In addition, let’s say you have a brother that you only share a father with, making him your half-brother.
Who is entitled to full intestate estate in Massachusetts?
Spouses in Massachusetts Inheritance Law. Your surviving spouse is entitled to receive your full intestate estate under two distinctly different sets of circumstances under Massachusetts inheritance laws: if you have no surviving children and parents, or if all of you and your spouse’s children are the product of your relationship.
When do you have to file a Massachusetts estate tax return?
Any Massachusetts resident who has an estate valued at more than $1 million between property and adjusted taxable gifts is required to file a Massachusetts estate tax return. The same rule applies to nonresidents who owned property in the state. Massachusetts gives executors and caretakers of the estate nine months to file this.