1031 Tax Exchange – Frequently Asked Questions
A 1031 Tax Exchange , often referred to as a like-kind exchange , is one of the most powerful tax-deferral strategies available to real estate investors in the United States. While widely discussed, it is also frequently misunderstood. Executives, business owners, and sophisticated investors often hear about 1031 exchanges as a way to defer capital gains taxes—but questions remain around eligibility, timelines, risks, and compliance requirements. This Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) guide is designed to provide clear, accurate, and executive-level explanations of the 1031 tax exchange. The goal is to support informed decision-making, not aggressive tax avoidance, by explaining how the strategy works and when it may—or may not—be appropriate. What Is a 1031 Tax Exchange? A 1031 Tax Exchange is a transaction allowed under Section 1031 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code that enables an investor to defer capital gains taxes when selling an investment property, provided the pr...