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Writer's pictureDenver McClure

How to Use a 1031 Exchange to Grow Your Real Estate Portfolio

A 1031 exchange can be a powerful tool to build wealth in real estate by deferring taxes and reinvesting the full proceeds into higher-value or better-performing assets. Here’s how you can leverage it:


1. Upgrade to Higher-Value Properties

  • Sell a smaller property and use the proceeds to buy a larger or more expensive property.

  • Example: Sell a single-family rental property and reinvest into a multi-family building, increasing your rental income and asset value.


2. Diversify Your Portfolio

  • Use the proceeds to acquire properties in different markets or asset classes (e.g., residential, commercial, or industrial) to reduce risk and improve cash flow.

  • Example: Exchange a property in a declining market for one in a growing metropolitan area with strong job growth.


3. Consolidate Properties

  • Sell multiple smaller properties and use a 1031 exchange to acquire a larger, more manageable investment.

  • Example: Trade three single-family homes for a single apartment complex, simplifying property management.


4. Swap for Higher Cash Flow Opportunities

  • Sell a property with minimal rental yield and purchase one with better income potential.

  • Example: Exchange a property in an expensive market with low rental returns for one in a more affordable market with higher cap rates.


5. Transition to Passive Investments

  • Use a 1031 exchange to move from active property management into more passive investments, such as a Delaware Statutory Trust (DST), which qualifies for 1031 exchanges and offers fractional ownership of income-producing properties.

  • Example: Exchange your actively managed duplex for a DST ownership in a professionally managed self storage facility.


6. Build Long-Term Wealth

  • Repeatedly use 1031 exchanges to defer taxes and grow your portfolio over time. By continually reinvesting the proceeds into larger or higher-performing properties, you can exponentially increase the value of your holdings.

  • Bonus: When you pass away, your heirs may receive a step-up in basis, effectively eliminating deferred taxes on the properties.


Key Considerations

  • Tax Deferral, Not Elimination: Taxes are deferred, not forgiven. You’ll owe capital gains taxes if you sell a property without reinvesting through a 1031 exchange.

  • Strict Rules and Deadlines: Missing the 45-day identification or 180-day closing deadlines can disqualify the exchange.

  • Like-Kind Requirements: Both the relinquished and replacement properties must qualify as investment or business-use properties.

  • Professional Guidance: Work with experienced tax advisors, attorneys, and qualified intermediaries to ensure compliance and optimize your strategy.


Is a 1031 Exchange Right for You?

A 1031 exchange is ideal for real estate investors looking to scale their portfolios, improve property performance, or diversify holdings while minimizing tax liabilities. However, it requires careful planning and execution. Understanding your financial goals and working with a knowledgeable team can help you maximize the benefits of this powerful tax strategy.


Please reach out to our team at Nashional Investments for more information on investing in DSTs, and Above & Below 1031 to see if you qualify for an exchange.

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