What are the rules and requirements for a successful 1031 Exchange?

All 1031 Exchanges, regardless of the type, have a 45-day identification period and a 180-day exchange period. For a 1031 Exchange to be in accordance with IRC § 1031, within 45-days of the close of the sale of the Relinquished Property the taxpayer must identify their potential replacement property(ies) in writing to the qualified intermediary. The replacement property(ies) description must be unambiguous and specific, using a physical address or legal description.

In relation to the 45-day identification period, there are rules that a taxpayer must follow when identifying their potential replacement property(ies). There are three distinct identification rules that the taxpayer can use, and they can choose the appropriate rule for their specific exchange situation. The three rules are as follows:

1. 3-Property Rule: A taxpayer can identify up to three properties without regard to the fair market value of the properties, and they must close on at least one of the identified properties for the exchange to be valid.
2. 200% Rule: A taxpayer can identify more than three properties, but the fair market value of all properties combined cannot exceed 200% of the fair market value of the Relinquished property(ies).
3. 95% Rule: A taxpayer can identify infinite properties, the combined value of which exceeds 200% of the value of what they sold, but they must acquire at least 95% of the fair market value of the properties they identify.

All 1031 Exchanges have a 180-day time limit starting from the day of the close on the sale of the Relinquished Property. The only exception is for federally declared disaster areas. If the taxpayer has not completed the purchase of the Replacement Property before or on day 180, then the exchange is closed, and the taxpayer must recognize and pay taxes on the proceeds from their Relinquished Property sale. 

If you’d like to read more about 1031 rules, you can do so here. If you need a 1031 third party servicer you can reach out to 1031 Prime here.

*the above does not constitute tax or legal advice. Please reach out directly to your advisors for guidance on your specific situation.