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What is a “1031 exchange”?
A “1031 exchange” refers to a method of deferring tax on the sale of an interest in real property allowed under section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code. In brief, it allows a seller to defer tax on a gain that would otherwise be realized on a sale of property if the proceeds from the sale were reinvested in like-kind property. It’s quite common for a 1031 exchange to be involved in some manner in a commercial real estate transaction.
A seller must contractually arrange to convey his or her interest in the property being sold in exchange for receiving an interest in another piece of commercial property. The rules for a 1031 exchange can be quite complex and it is easy for a seller to run afoul of them. It’s always advisable to have an experienced CPA and legal counsel involved in the transaction.
