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Section 1031 Exchange

August 22, 2026 · Aditya Gupta

Tax

A 1031 exchange (like-kind exchange) allows real estate investors to defer capital gains taxes by reinvesting sale proceeds into a similar property. Strict rules: 45 days to identify replacement property, 180 days to close. Both properties must be held for investment or business use (not personal residence). The deferred gain rolls into the new property's basis. The 2017 tax reform restricted 1031 exchanges to real estate only (previously included equipment, art). 1031 exchanges enable indefinite tax deferral — investors can pyramid real estate wealth and pass to heirs at stepped-up basis, never paying the deferred tax. Use a Qualified Intermediary; touching the cash voids the exchange.

Tax

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