The Basics

Start here. Understand how 1031 exchanges work, the key rules, and common mistakes to avoid.

Essential reading

What Is a 1031 Exchange? The Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about 1031 exchanges: how they work, who qualifies, the step-by-step process, common mistakes, costs, and whether one makes sense for your situation.

18 min readRead article

How to Do a 1031 Exchange: Step by Step

A practical step-by-step walkthrough of a 1031 exchange from preparation through closing and tax filing, including what to do at each stage and the mistakes to avoid.

16 min readRead article

1031 Exchange Rules: The 7 Requirements You Must Follow

The seven IRS rules that govern every 1031 exchange. Break any one of them and the exchange fails — here's how to follow all of them.

14 min readRead article

1031 Exchange Timeline: Every Deadline That Matters

A day-by-day timeline of the 1031 exchange process. What happens before, during, and after the 45-day identification and 180-day closing windows.

14 min readRead article

All articles

1031 Exchange Boot Explained: Cash Boot, Mortgage Boot, and Hidden Boot

Boot is any money or lesser-value property you receive in a 1031 exchange. Learn cash boot, mortgage boot, and sneaky hidden boot that triggers capital gains tax.

16 min read

Vacation Homes and Second Homes: When a Dwelling Unit Qualifies for 1031

Can you 1031 exchange a vacation home? Only if it meets IRS safe harbor rules on rental days and personal use. Learn the two-year test and common scenarios.

15 min read

Can You 1031 Exchange a Primary Residence? (And What to Do Instead)

Your primary residence doesn't qualify for a 1031 exchange under IRC Section 1031, but there are legitimate strategies to unlock tax savings if you're willing to plan ahead.

14 min read

"Held for Investment" and Holding Period: How Long Do You Need to Hold?

The IRS doesn't mandate a specific holding period for 1031 exchanges, but they scrutinize properties held too briefly. Learn what patterns trigger audits and what safer holding times look like.

13 min read

Dealer Status and Flips: When a 1031 Exchange Is NOT Allowed

BRRRR investors and house flippers beware: if the IRS classifies you as a dealer, you lose 1031 benefits entirely. Learn the warning signs and how to keep your status as an investor.

14 min read

Simultaneous 1031 Exchange: Is It Still Done?

A simultaneous 1031 exchange happens when you buy and sell on the same day. Here's why it's rare today and what investors need to know about timing.

9 min read

Related Party 1031 Exchanges: Rules, Restrictions, and Safe Structures

Trading property with family members or entities you control? Related party 1031 exchanges have strict rules that catch many investors off guard. Learn the 2-year hold requirement and how to structure deals safely.

9 min read

1031 Exchange and Inheritance: Step-Up in Basis and Estate Planning

The most powerful wealth-building combo for real estate investors: successive 1031 exchanges during life, followed by a step-up in basis at death. Your heirs could inherit millions tax-free. Here's how to plan for it.

10 min read

1031 Exchange and Divorce: What Investors Need to Know

Divorce proceedings and 1031 exchanges don't mix well without careful planning. Learn how property ownership rules, timing, and settlement options affect your exchange eligibility and tax liability.

9 min read

"Like-Kind" in 2026: What Counts as Real Property After TCJA

After the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, 1031 like-kind exchanges are limited to real property only. But what exactly counts? Parking lots, solar installations, and fixtures: here's what qualifies and what doesn't.

8 min read

1031 Exchange Requirements: Who Qualifies and What It Takes

Not everyone can do a 1031 exchange, and not all property qualifies. Learn exactly who can participate and what conditions must be met.

12 min read

Improvement / Construction (Build-to-Suit) 1031 Exchange

A build-to-suit 1031 exchange lets you use your exchange funds to improve or construct on replacement property. Learn the 180-day rule, execution risks, and how improvements affect your exchange value.

14 min read

Reverse 1031 Exchange: How It Works, When to Use It, and the Safe Harbor

A reverse 1031 exchange lets you buy the replacement property before selling your current one, solving timing problems in competitive markets. Learn how parking works, the 180-day safe harbor, and what it costs.

15 min read