The favorable rule allowing debt forgiveness on a principal residence mortgage up to $2 million expired at the end of 2013. It could be extended, but given the resurgence in the housing market, it may not be included in a package of extenders this year. Stay tuned!
The difference between amount realized and adjusted basis on the sale or exchange of capital assets. Long-term capital gains are taxed favorably. Capital losses are deducted first against capital gains, and then again up to $3,000 of other income.