Principal Residence Series (Part 2) – Converting a Principal Residence into a Rental Property

When selling a property, it is generally known that capital gains tax needs to be calculated based on the property's use, and the corresponding tax must be paid. If the property is a principal residence, the Principal Residence Exemption (PRE) can be used to exempt some or all of the capital gains tax. However, many people are unaware of the provisions of Section 45(1) of the Income Tax Act, which states that when there is a change in the use of a property, it is deemed to be disposed of at fair market value. A change in use refers to converting a property used for personal purposes into one used for income-generating purposes, or vice versa. In simple terms, this means that if you previously owned a principal residence or a vacation home that you used solely for personal enjoyment (e.g., living or vacationing), and then decided to use that property to generate income, whether through long-term rental or running a Airbnb, the property is deemed to have been sold at its fair market value at the time of the change in use. The same rule applies if you convert a rental property into one for personal use. The Income Tax Act also provides two sister provisions, Sections 45(2) and 45(3), which allow taxpayers to make elections that, if used correctly, can effectively avoid capital gains tax.

Understanding the Enhanced CPP: Key Changes and Impacts in 2024

The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is a monthly tax benefit designed to provide partial income replacement for retirees. The purpose of the CPP is to help Canadians maintain a certain standard of living after retirement. The income for the CPP comes from contributions made by employers and employees, as well as investment earnings. Both the contribution amounts and benefits of the CPP are adjusted according to the average wage and price levels in Canada.
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