Do you need cash from it?
If yes, a sale is probably right. If not, a donation may be simpler.
Who donates real estate to charity, and why
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Who Donates Real Estate to Charity?
Real estate donors are rarely wealthy philanthropists writing checks. They are heirs holding a house in another state, retirees tired of managing a rental, farm families with no one to take over, business owners with an empty building, and people who bought land decades ago and never used it. What they share is property that costs more to keep than it is worth to them, and a wish for it to do some good.
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The situations we see most
Most calls fall into a handful of situations, each with its own page.
Heirs and executors
An inherited house or farm nobody wants to move to. Inherited houses.
Landlords
A rental with tenants, depreciation and a low basis. Rentals with tenants.
Landowners
A lot or acreage that only sends a tax bill. Unwanted land.
Business owners
A building left empty after a closure or move. Former business buildings.
Why they choose a donation
For most, it is simpler than selling: no listing, no showings, no repairs and no closing. For owners of appreciated property, it can avoid capital gains tax and may produce a deduction. For older owners, a charitable gift annuity can turn property into fixed income.
And for many, it matters that the property’s value goes on to help families rather than simply ending up in a sale.
Is a donation right for you?
Three questions settle most of it.
Is there real equity?
A property owned free and clear, or with debt well below its value, is the strongest candidate.
Does the tax picture help?
Long-held, appreciated property is where a donation’s tax treatment differs most from a sale.
Who donates real estate: questions, answered
Do I have to be wealthy to donate real estate? +
No. Many donors own one modest property they no longer want. What matters is the property, not the donor’s net worth.
Do I have to itemize to benefit? +
For the tax deduction, yes. Many donors give simply to be done with the property, whether or not they itemize.
Can an estate or trust donate property? +
Yes, within the authority the will or trust gives the executor or trustee.
Can a business donate its building? +
Yes. The entity that holds title makes the gift, and the deduction follows the entity’s tax treatment.
I am not sure a donation is right. Can I still call? +
Yes. We will tell you honestly if a sale or another route fits better.
We do not provide tax or legal advice. See IRS Publication 526, Publication 561 and the Form 8283 instructions, and consult your own advisor.
Related guides
Tell us about the property and we will review it
We will tell you plainly whether a donation fits your situation.