Can you buy multiple properties in a 1031 exchange?

Question

Is it possible to acquire multiple replacement properties in a single 1031 exchange transaction, and if so, what are the considerations and requirements for ensuring that the exchange qualifies for tax deferral under Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code?

ARTE's Answer

Yes, you can buy multiple properties in a 1031 exchange. The key requirement is that the total value of the replacement properties must be equal to or greater than the value of the relinquished property to fully defer capital gains taxes. This strategy is often used by investors looking to diversify their real estate portfolio or to acquire properties in different locations.

When engaging in a 1031 exchange, you must adhere to the IRS guidelines, which include:

  • Identifying the replacement properties within 45 days of selling the relinquished property
  • Completing the acquisition of these properties within 180 days

You can identify up to three properties regardless of their total value, or more than three properties as long as their combined value does not exceed 200% of the value of the relinquished property.

Example:

Suppose you own a commercial property valued at $1,000,000, which you decide to sell. You want to use a 1031 exchange to defer the capital gains tax and reinvest in multiple properties. You identify three residential properties:

  • Property A valued at $400,000
  • Property B valued at $350,000
  • Property C valued at $300,000

The total value of these properties is $1,050,000, which is greater than the value of your relinquished property.

At Deferred.com, we can act as your qualified intermediary to facilitate this exchange. We will hold the proceeds from the sale of your commercial property and ensure that the funds are used to acquire the identified replacement properties within the required timeframe. By doing so, you can successfully complete the 1031 exchange, deferring your capital gains tax while diversifying your investment into multiple properties.

This approach allows you to leverage the benefits of a 1031 exchange to expand your real estate holdings and potentially increase your investment returns. If you have any further questions or need assistance with your exchange, feel free to reach out to us at Deferred.com.

Have more questions? Call us at 866-442-1031 or send an email to support@deferred.com to talk with an exchange officer at Deferred.

Deferred's AI Real Estate Tax Expert (ARTE) is a free research tool. Trained on 8,000+ pages of US tax law, regulations and rulings, ARTE outperforms human test takers on the CPA exam. This is page has ARTE's response to a common 1031 Exchange question and should not be considered personalized tax advice.

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