Chapter 10
Property: Dispositions

SOLUTIONS MANUAL

Discussion Questions:

1. [LO 1] Compare and contrast different ways in which a taxpayer triggers a realization event by disposing of an asset.

A realization event for tax purposes is created in many ways. Virtually any disposal will result in a sale or other disposition. These include a sale, trade, gift to charity, disposal to the landfill, or destruction in a natural disaster. In a sale or trade (exchange), the taxpayer receives something of value in return for the asset. In contrast, a charitable contribution, disposal, or destruction from a natural disaster generally results in a loss of any remaining basis in the asset without compensation (unless reimbursed by insurance).

2. [LO 1] Potomac Corporation wants to sell a warehouse that it has used in its business for 10 years. Potomac is asking $450,000 for the property. The warehouse is subject to a mortgage of $125,000. If Potomac accepts Wyden Inc.’s offer to give Potomac $325,000 in cash and assume full responsibility for the mortgage on the property, what amount does Potomac realize on the sale?

When the property disposed of is subject to a liability and the buyer assumes the liability, the relief of debt increases the amount realized. Thus, Potomac’s amount realized consists of $450,000, which is cash of $325,000 plus $125,000 relief of debt. This assumes that the buyer hypothetically transfers cash to the seller in order to pay off the mortgage.

3. [LO 1] Montana Max sells a 2,500-acre ranch for $1,000,000 in cash, a note receivable of $1,000,000, and debt relief of $2,400,000. He also pays selling commissions of $60,000. In addition, Max agrees to build a new barn on the property (cost $250,000) and spend $100,000 upgrading the fence on the property before the sale. What is Max’s amount realized on the sale?