Real Estate | Washington National Cathedral

Owning real estate can be rewarding, particularly when a property has appreciated over time. Yet long-term ownership also brings ongoing responsibilities—maintenance, management, insurance, and property taxes. Selling is always an option, but for vacation homes or investment properties, a sale can trigger significant capital gains taxes, reducing the amount you ultimately retain.

An often-overlooked alternative is donating real estate to Washington National Cathedral, which may provide meaningful tax advantages while supporting your philanthropic goals.

Why Taxes Matter

Highly appreciated property often carries a low-cost basis. When sold, much of the gain may be subject to capital gains tax. By donating real estate instead of selling it, you may avoid capital gains tax on the appreciation and receive a charitable income tax deduction for the property’s fair market value.

Depending on your goals, a gift of real estate may also create income or provide estate planning benefits.

Ways to Give Real Estate

Give It Now.
You may transfer real estate directly to Washington National Cathedral through an outright gift. After reviewing and approving the property, the transfer is typically completed by deed. You may receive a charitable deduction and avoid capital gains tax on the appreciation.

Give It Later.
If you prefer to retain ownership during your lifetime, you can include real estate as a gift in your will or revocable living trust. This approach allows you to revise your plans if circumstances change while ensuring the property ultimately benefits the Cathedral.

Give It for Income.
Real estate may be transferred to a charitable remainder trust that benefits the Cathedral. The trust can sell the property without incurring capital gains tax and invest the proceeds. You receive an income stream for life (or for a term of years) and a charitable deduction. When the trust ends, the remaining assets support the Cathedral.

Give a Portion.
You may donate a percentage interest in your property while retaining the remainder. This can generate an immediate deduction and allow both you and the Cathedral to share in sale proceeds. In some cases, the deduction may help offset capital gains tax on your retained interest.

A gift of real estate can simplify your financial life, reduce taxes, and transform a valuable asset into lasting support for Washington National Cathedral.