Most capital gains are taxed between 0% and 20%, but certain alternative investments are taxed at higher rates. Section 1250 depreciable real estate (usually office or commercial buildings) is taxed up to 25%, while collectibles and section 1202 qualified small business stock are taxed at 28%.
Gains from the sale of residential real estate — as long as you own and lived in the property for two of the last five years — are partially exempt from taxation. Up to $250,000 in profits for single filers and $500,000 in profits for married joint filers is not subject to capital gains tax.