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Understanding CRIM and Other Taxes When Selling Your Property in Puerto Rico

22 Feb, 2025

Selling property in Puerto Rico? Understand the taxes involved! Learn about CRIM, capital gains, and closing costs with expert guidance from Puerto Rico Real Estate, PSC, ensuring a smooth and profitable sale.
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Understanding CRIM and Other Taxes When Selling Your Property in Puerto Rico

Understanding CRIM and Other Taxes When Selling Your Property in Puerto Rico

Selling a property in Puerto Rico involves more than just finding a buyer—it requires an understanding of the taxes and costs associated with the transaction. From CRIM property taxes to capital gains and closing costs, sellers must navigate these financial obligations to avoid unexpected expenses and ensure a smooth sale.

Puerto Rico Real Estate, PSC is here to help you understand these tax implications, guiding you every step of the way so that you maximize your profit while staying compliant with local tax laws.

1. What is CRIM and Why It Matters When Selling a Property?

CRIM (Centro de Recaudación de Ingresos Municipales) is Puerto Rico’s property tax authority, responsible for collecting annual real estate taxes. When selling a property, sellers must ensure that all CRIM payments are up to date.

Key CRIM Responsibilities for Sellers:

  • Annual Property Taxes: CRIM assesses property taxes based on the property's registered value.

  • Debt Clearance: Before selling, sellers must obtain a Certificación de Deuda CRIM, proving that all taxes are paid.

  • Tax Exemptions: Some properties qualify for exemptions (e.g., primary residences, agricultural land), but these must be verified before the sale.

How Puerto Rico Real Estate, PSC Helps:

  • CRIM Verification: We ensure your property’s CRIM status is clear before listing.

  • Debt Resolution: We assist in resolving outstanding CRIM payments to avoid closing delays.

  • Tax Assessment Review: We help verify if the registered value is correct to prevent over-taxation.

2. Capital Gains Tax in Puerto Rico

Capital gains tax applies when selling a property at a profit. It is calculated based on the difference between the purchase price and the selling price, adjusted for improvements and allowable deductions.

Capital Gains Tax Rates:

  • Individuals: 15% on net capital gains.

  • Corporations: 20% on net capital gains.

  • Non-Residents: Subject to federal and Puerto Rico tax obligations.

Deductions and Exemptions:

  • Cost of home improvements (must have receipts for proof).

  • Selling expenses, including real estate agent fees.

  • Exemption for primary residences if lived in for at least two years.

How Puerto Rico Real Estate, PSC Helps:

  • Tax Calculation Assistance: We help estimate your capital gains liability.

  • Deductions Review: We ensure you claim all allowable deductions to reduce taxable gains.

  • Tax Filing Guidance: We connect you with tax professionals for accurate reporting.

3. Other Taxes and Costs Associated with Selling a Property

Beyond CRIM and capital gains, sellers in Puerto Rico should be aware of additional taxes and closing costs that impact their net proceeds.

Notary and Legal Fees

  • In Puerto Rico, a notary-public attorney is required to draft the deed of sale.

  • Notary fees typically range between 0.5% and 1% of the sale price.

Property Transfer Tax

  • A 0.5% transfer tax applies when selling a property.

  • Properties inherited or transferred between family members may qualify for exemptions.

Municipal Sales Tax (Patente Municipal)

  • Some municipalities may require a local business license tax if the property was rented before the sale.

How Puerto Rico Real Estate, PSC Helps:

  • Closing Cost Estimation: We help calculate your total expected expenses.

  • Legal & Notary Coordination: We assist with finding experienced professionals.

  • Municipal Compliance: We verify local tax obligations to avoid last-minute surprises.

4. Withholding Tax for Non-Resident Sellers

If you are a non-resident selling property in Puerto Rico, you may be subject to a 15% withholding tax on the gross sale amount. This tax ensures compliance with Puerto Rico’s tax regulations.

How to Reduce Withholding Tax:

  • File for a Withholding Exemption Request if you qualify for deductions.

  • Work with a tax professional to ensure compliance and avoid overpayment.

How Puerto Rico Real Estate, PSC Helps:

  • Withholding Tax Evaluation: We assess whether you qualify for reduced tax liability.

  • Exemption Filing Assistance: We connect you with experts to handle the necessary paperwork.

  • International Seller Support: We guide non-resident sellers through the taxation process.

5. How to Minimize Taxes When Selling Your Property

While taxes are unavoidable, strategic planning can help reduce your tax liability and maximize your net profit.

Tips to Reduce Taxes:

  1. Verify CRIM Records: Ensure your property’s tax status is accurate to avoid unnecessary fees.

  2. Time Your Sale Strategically: Selling a primary residence after two years of occupancy may qualify for capital gains exemptions.

  3. Keep Detailed Records: Maintain receipts for renovations, property taxes, and selling costs to claim deductions.

  4. Work with a Tax Professional: Tax laws change, and expert advice ensures compliance and savings.

How Puerto Rico Real Estate, PSC Helps:

  • Tax Strategy Planning: We advise on the best time and method to sell for optimal financial results.

  • Documentation Support: We help compile necessary records for tax deductions.

  • Financial Consultation: We connect you with local tax professionals to ensure compliance.

6. Why Choose Puerto Rico Real Estate, PSC?

Navigating property taxes in Puerto Rico can be overwhelming. Choosing Puerto Rico Real Estate, PSC ensures a seamless, stress-free experience with expert guidance at every step.

Why Sellers Trust Us:

  • In-Depth Tax Knowledge: We simplify CRIM, capital gains, and other tax processes.

  • Accurate Cost Estimates: We provide upfront estimates of taxes and closing costs.

  • Full-Service Real Estate Support: From tax guidance to buyer negotiations, we handle everything.

  • Proven Success: Our expertise in Puerto Rico’s real estate market ensures maximum seller profits.

Conclusion

Selling a property in Puerto Rico requires a clear understanding of CRIM property taxes, capital gains, and closing costs. Failing to plan for these expenses can result in delays, legal issues, or unexpected financial burdens. Puerto Rico Real Estate, PSC is your trusted partner, providing expert guidance to ensure a profitable and stress-free home sale.

Ready to sell? Contact us today: 📞 787.244.6364
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.ThePuertoRicoRealEstate.com


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