Book excerpt: Proven tax strategies any homeowner can use to maximize the benefits of owning a home "Robinson walks the reader through almost every conceivable scenario that could result in a lower tax bill." --Ilyce Glink, Tribune Media Services J.K. Lasser's Homeowner's Tax Breaks 2006 provides a straightforward and accessible look at the legitimate tax strategies any homeowner can use to save on their taxes. This comprehensive guide reveals a multitude of both well-known and little-known tax-saving ideas that will allow you to put substantial dollars back where they belong--in your pocket. Filled with in-depth insights and practical advice, J.K. Lasser's Homeowner's Tax Breaks 2006 will help you: * Legitimately take deductions for your household when you have a home office * Make your credit card and car loan interest deductible * Qualify to exclude up to $250,000 of gains on the sale of your home--$500,000 if you're married * Cope with a depressed housing market by getting deductions for renting your home before you sell it * Create tax-free income from renovating your home and selling it at a profit * Receive charitable deductions on your home while you're still living in it * Make your home a retirement nest egg that generates tax-free income by trading down or using it for a reverse mortgage * Eliminate estate tax on your principal residence by utilizing a personal residence trust J.K. Lasser--Practical Guides for All Your Financial Needs Please visit our Web site at www.jklasser.com