What's a 1031 Exchange?

1031 Exchanges Explained

A 1031 exchange, also known as a like-kind exchange, is a powerful tax-deferral strategy that allows real estate investors to postpone paying capital gains taxes. By selling one investment property and reinvesting the proceeds into another of equal or greater value, investors can utilize this strategy under Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code to defer capital gains and depreciation recapture taxes.

Tax-deferred real estate exchanges have been a cornerstone of the U.S. tax code for over 100 years, with annual 1031 transaction volume currently between $80 and $100 billion. Moreover, if investors continue deferring gains through successive exchanges, they may eventually benefit from a basis step-up, which can effectively eliminate the deferred taxes altogether, making this strategy not just a deferral, but potentially a permanent tax-saving tool.

Estimated Tax Liability – Example

In the following example, if an investor opts for a 1031 exchange, they would defer the $315,000 in taxes that would otherwise be paid to the US Federal and State governments. Consequently, they would incur no tax liability today, as opposed to paying $315,000.

An example tax calculation

1031 Exchange Rules

For a successful 1031 exchange, it’s crucial to adhere to certain key regulations. This section highlights a few of the essential rules and requirements that real estate investors must follow to defer capital gains taxes under Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code.

"Like-Kind" Property

Like Kind Property Icons
  • IRS term for real estate in the USA
  • No equipment, art, etc.

Business or
Investment Use

  • Business or investment uses
  • Personals residences don’t qualify

1031 Exchange Timeline

  • Identify replacement properties in 45 days
  • Close on replacement property in 180 days

Equal or Greater Value

For full tax deferral

  • Must buy more property
  • AND use all your sales equity

Same Taxpayer on Title

  • Same taxpayer on title (sale & buy)
  • Except DST property

No Funds to Exchanger

  • Exchanger can’t receive sales equity
  • Hire Qualified Intermediary (QI)

1031 Exchange Timeline

The 1031 exchange timeline is a critical component, requiring investors to identify a replacement property within 45 days and complete the purchase within 180 days of selling their original asset. This stringent timeline can pose challenges, as investors must quickly find suitable properties and finalize transactions, which can be particularly demanding in competitive or fluctuating real estate markets.

Who's Involved in a 1031 Exchange

1031 Exchanger
  • Real estate investor performing a 1031 exchange – sells & buys investment real estate
RE Broker to Sell
  • Markets & sells currently owned property
Qualified Intermediary
  • Holds & wires funds for you, required per 1031 IRS rules
RE Broker to Buy (where we come in)
  • Helps you hunt, find, negotiate & buy investment real estate – syndicated or traditional
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Evaluates your tax position and reports your 1031 exchange
Real estate transaction with a happy couple
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