What You Need to Know for a 1031 Exchange in California - AB Capital (2024)

If you’re currently an owner of an investment property, a 1031 exchange might be the ideal real estate transaction for you if you want to purchase another property while selling off your current one. A 1031 exchange is a tax-deferred exchange that allows you to defer capital gains taxes as long as you are purchasing another “like-kind” property. This exchange mechanism is used by some of the most successful real estate investors and can be beneficial in a variety of situations. The following is a general guide to a 1031 exchange in California. It includes details about what the 1031 exchange is, how to perform the exchange, and why the exchange could be beneficial for you. Understanding the intricate details of a 1031 exchange should be accomplished using a “Qualified Intermediary” which is a professional third-party company that accommodates the exchange process and helps you avoid making any critical mistakes that could jeopardize your tax-advantaged sale.

What Is a 1031 Exchange?

What You Need to Know for a 1031 Exchange in California - AB Capital (1)

A 1031 exchange is an exchange that occurs when you sell one investment property in order to purchase another. When swapping your current investment property for another, you would typically be required to pay a significant amount of capital gain taxes. However, if this transaction qualifies as a 1031 exchange, you can defer these taxes indefinitely. This allows investors the opportunity to move into a different class of real estate and/or shift their focus into a new area without getting hit with a large tax burden.

The main requirements for a 1031 exchange are: (1) must purchase another “like-kind” investment property; (2) replacement property must be of equal or greater value; (3) must invest all of the proceeds from the sale (cannot receive any “boot”); (4) must be the same title holder and taxpayer; (5) must identify new property within 45 days; and (6) must purchase new property within 180 days.

To understand how beneficial a 1031 exchange can be, you should know what the capital gains tax is. In most real estate transactions where you own investment property for more than one year, you will be required to pay a capital gains tax. This directly levies a tax on the difference between the adjusted purchase price (initial price plus improvement costs, other related costs, and factoring out depreciation) and the sales price of the property. The percentage that’s taxed on your capital gains depends on the tax bracket that you’re in. The 1031 exchange is defined under section 1031 of the IRS code, which is where it gets its name.

4 Types of Real Estate Exchanges

What You Need to Know for a 1031 Exchange in California - AB Capital (2)

There are four types of real estate exchanges that you can consider when you wish to participate in a 1031 exchange, which includes:

  • Simultaneous exchange
  • Delayed exchange
  • Reverse exchange
  • Construction or improvement exchange

1. Simultaneous Exchange

One type of 1031 exchange is a simultaneous exchange, which takes place when the property that you’re selling and the property that you’re acquiring close the same day as one another. Keep in mind that this exchange must be simultaneous in order for you to receive the benefits. If the closing of either property is delayed for a short period of time, the exchange could be disqualified, which means that you would need to pay full capital gains taxes.

A simultaneous exchange can occur in three separate ways. The first type of simultaneous exchange is one where you swap deeds with the owner of the other investment property. The second type is a three-party exchange where the transaction between you and the owner of the other investment property is facilitated by a third party called a Qualified Intermediary. Qualified Intermediaries will structure the entire transaction and have training and experience in handling such transactions. Without the help of a Qualified Intermediary, you run the risk of nullifying the 1031 exchange and incurring a large tax burden.

2. Delayed Exchange

A delayed exchange is easily the most common 1031 exchange that you can make. When you conduct a delayed exchange, you will be able to relinquish or sell your investment property before you purchase another investment property. This allows you to use the funds from one sale to acquire another property. This type of exchange can’t occur until you’ve marketed your property, secured a buyer, and have executed the sale and final purchase agreement. A Qualified Intermediary will then need to be engaged to retain the proceeds of the sale until a like-kind property is acquired by the seller.

You will have 45 days to identify a new property and 180 days to close. During this period, the profits from the sale of your previous investment property will be held in a binding trust. Again, while the sale of your new property must be completed in 180 days, you will only have 45 days to find the investment property that you wish to buy. This time-frame gives you some leeway when compared to a simultaneous exchange.

3. Reverse Exchange

A reverse exchange is unique in that you find and purchase an investment property before selling your current investment property. Your current property will then be traded away. By purchasing a new property beforehand, you can wait to sell your current property until the market value of the property increases.

The main issue with this type of exchange is that the transaction typically occurs with 100 percent cash. It’s also important to understand that the majority of banks don’t provide reverse exchange loans. Keep in mind that the purchase of another property with this exchange means that you will have 45 days to determine which one of your current investment properties are going to be relinquished. You will then have another 135 days to complete the sale.

4. Construction or Improvement Exchange

A construction or improvement exchange is a type of exchange that allows you to make improvements to the property before the actual exchange takes place. The property will be placed with a qualified intermediary for 180 days, during which you can use the exchange equity to make the necessary improvements. However, there are three separate requirements that you must meet if you want all gains to be free from taxes.

First, all exchange equity will need to be spent as a down payment or by making improvements to the property within 180 days. The taxpayer will need to receive the same property that was identified on the 45th day, which means that it can’t change significantly. Once the property is given back to the taxpayer, it will need to be at an equal or greater value. These improvements need to be made within 180 days.

Basic 1031 Exchange Definitions

What You Need to Know for a 1031 Exchange in California - AB Capital (3)

1. What is Like-Kind Property?

The property that you obtain must be a “like-kind property” in order for the transaction to be considered a 1031 exchange. However, this is a broad term, which means that the property you obtain doesn’t need to be exactly the same as the one that you relinquished. Almost any type of real estate can qualify for this exchange. For instance, you could exchange a duplex for an apartment building. Both properties will need to be in the U.S.

2. What qualifies as Investment Property?

The property must be a business or investment property, which means that it can’t be personal property. Your home won’t qualify for a 1031 exchange. However, a single-family rental property that you own could be exchanged for commercial rental property.

3. How do you determine Equal or Greater Value in an exchange?

The equity and market value of the investment property that you purchase will need to be equal to or greater than what you sold your current property for. If your property has a $300,000 mortgage on a $1 million home, the property that you want to purchase must be worth at least $1 million and you must have the same ratio (or higher) debt on the property.

4. What is “Boot”?

The term“boot”refers to non-like-kindproperty received in anexchange. Typicallybootis in the form of cash, mortgage debt or personal property received in an exchange. If you want your exchange to be wholly tax-free, you can’t receive boot on the sale of the property. Any boot that you do receive will be taxed.

5. What does the same Title Holder / Tax Payer mean?

The name and tax return that appears on the property title for the property that you sell will need to be the same as the name and tax return that you provide when purchasing a new property. An exception is allowed if you’re the sole member of a limited-liability company wherein the property is passed from your company to you.

6. The 45-Day Identification Window

No matter which type of 1031 exchange you take part in, you will have 45 days from the close of the sale to find as many as three like-kind properties. If you identify two or three properties, their total value must equal or surpass the value of the property that’s being sold.

7. The 180-Day Purchase Window

Once you sell your current property, you will have 180 days to purchase a replacement investment property and complete the 1031 exchange.

Getting Started With a Section 1031 Transaction

What You Need to Know for a 1031 Exchange in California - AB Capital (4)

If you feel like a 1031 exchange is right for you, it’s essential that you know what you’re doing and follow all of the rules. The first step is always to contact a Qualified Intermediary to help handle your exchange. Whether you’re conducting a simultaneous exchange or a delayed exchange, the investment property that you choose to buy must be similar to the property that you’re relinquishing. It’s also important that you don’t attempt to use any personal property in this exchange. Keep in mind that you will have 45 days to find a property and 180 days to complete the exchange. Any delay on these time limits could cause you to pay capital gains taxes.

As an investor, these exchanges can be useful in a variety of ways. If you want to diversify your assets with a different property or would like to purchase a property that has better-estimated returns, a 1031 exchange is a great tool. It could also be helpful if you currently manage the investment property that you own but would rather purchase one that’s already managed. While you should now understand how to get started with a section 1031 transaction, this is an incredibly complicated process that comes with many obstacles that need to be navigated. Please contact AB Capital for our list of trusted Qualified Intermediaries.

*Disclaimer: The statements and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of AB Capital. AB Capital makes no representations, warranties or guaranties as to the accuracy or completeness of any information contained in this article. AB Capital is licensed by the Financial Division of the California Department of Business Oversight as a California finance lender and broker (DBO Lic. No. 60DBO-69427). AB Capital makes money from providing bridge loans. Nothing stated in this article should be interpreted, construed or used as legal, financial, investment or tax planning advice, or a substitute for thorough due diligence and the exercise of sound independent judgment. If you are considering obtaining a bridge loan, it is recommended that you consult with persons that you trust including but not limited to real estate brokers, attorneys, accountants or financial advisors.

What You Need to Know for a 1031 Exchange in California - AB Capital (2024)

FAQs

What You Need to Know for a 1031 Exchange in California - AB Capital? ›

The main requirements for a 1031 exchange are: (1) must purchase another “like-kind” investment property; (2) replacement property must be of equal or greater value; (3) must invest all of the proceeds from the sale (cannot receive any “boot”); (4) must be the same title holder and taxpayer; (5) must identify new ...

Does California recognize 1031 exchanges? ›

California recognizes 1031 Exchanges which allows an investor to defer capital gains taxes as long as you are purchasing another “like-kind” property to replace the one you are selling. California does recognize it if you purchase your upleg in another state, but beware of the above “Clawback” rule.

What would disqualify a property from being used in a 1031 exchange? ›

Under IRC §1031, the following properties do not qualify for tax-deferred exchange treatment: Stock in trade or other property held primarily for sale (i.e. property held by a developer, “flipper” or other dealer) Securities or other evidences of indebtedness or interest. Stocks, bonds, or notes.

What is not allowed in a 1031 exchange? ›

Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Section 1031 now applies only to exchanges of real property and not to exchanges of personal or intangible property. An exchange of real property held primarily for sale still does not qualify as a like-kind exchange.

How do I prepare for a 1031 exchange? ›

How to do a 1031 exchange
  1. Step 1: Identify the property you want to sell. ...
  2. Step 2: Identify the property you want to buy. ...
  3. Step 3: Choose a qualified intermediary. ...
  4. Step 4: Decide how much of the sale proceeds will go toward the new property. ...
  5. Step 5: Keep an eye on the calendar. ...
  6. Step 6: Be careful about where the money is.
Feb 2, 2023

What is the California clawback rule? ›

California regulations employ a “Claw back” provision that requires any gain in property value accrued in California at be subject to California state taxes, regardless of whether or not that property was exchanged for one in another state.

How long do you have to hold a 1031 exchange property in California? ›

The only minimum required hold period in section 1031 is a “related party” exchange where the required hold is a minimum of two years.

When should you not do a 1031 exchange? ›

The two most common situations we encounter that are ineligible for exchange are the sale of a primary residence and “flippers.” Both are excluded for the same reason: In order to be eligible for a 1031 exchange, the relinquished property must have been held for productive in a trade or business or for investment.

What is the 2 year rule for 1031 exchanges? ›

The taxpayer and the related party must hold the properties that each received as part of the 1031 Exchange transaction for a minimum of two (2) years. The two (2) year holding period starts running on the date of the transfer or conveyance of the last property involved in the 1031 Exchange related party transaction.

What properties are best for 1031 exchange? ›

Commercial property including rental properties, condominiums, shopping centers, strip malls, timberland, gas and water interests, and land represent real property eligible for a 1031 exchange. One of the popular examples of 1031 Exchange replacement properties include Delaware Statutory Trusts or DST properties.

How can I avoid capital gains tax without a 1031 exchange? ›

If you cannot complete your 1031 exchange, then your qualified intermediary may be able to transfer the funds from your property sale to the deferred sales trust. By transferring to the trust, you can avoid constructive receipt and defer your capital gains tax.

How long must you hold a 1031 exchange property? ›

While there are no definitive rules on a holding period for a 1031 exchange property, it has made rulings indicating that a holding period of two years has been considered sufficient in order to meet the qualified use test.

Who holds money in 1031 exchange rules? ›

The qualified intermediary holds the money until you acquire the replacement property and your qualified intermediary will deliver funds to the closing agent.

What is the average return on a 1031 exchange? ›

DST Returns On Investment - What Could You Expect? Typical DST Returns on a 1031 exchange investment could yield between 5%- 8% of monthly distributions based on your fractional interest.

How long does a 1031 exchange take? ›

When the relinquished property closes, the person conducting the exchange has 45 days to identify their potential replacement properties. In total, one has 180 days to acquire the replacement property. Your exchange is completed in 180 days.

Can I do a 1031 exchange by myself? ›

A successful 1031 exchange isn't a do-it-yourself project. You must follow IRS rules to realize the tax deferral benefits and you'll need a middle person, called a qualified intermediary (QI).

Do you eventually pay taxes on 1031 exchange? ›

IRC Section 1031 provides an exception and allows you to postpone paying tax on the gain if you reinvest the proceeds in similar property as part of a qualifying like-kind exchange. Gain deferred in a like-kind exchange under IRC Section 1031 is tax-deferred, but it is not tax-free.

What is the withholding for 1031 exchange in California? ›

CALIFORNIA. Withholding: 3.33% of the sales price if the property is over $100,000. Exemption: Submit Form 593-C and certify as part of a 1031 exchange. Non-resident sellers seeking an exemption must submit Form 593-W to the California Franchise Tax Board.

How much is capital gains tax in California? ›

2021 Capital Gains Tax Rates
Tax Bracket/RateSingleHead of Household
0%$0 – $40,400$0 – $54,100
15%$40,401 – $445,850$54,101 – $473,750
20%$445,851+$473,751+

How do you avoid California clawback? ›

There is no way to avoid this situation unless one stays out of CA entirely or performs the final sale there.

Can you still do a 1031 exchange in 2023? ›

The extensions permit eligible persons who began an IRC §1031 exchange between July 12, 2022 and January 8, 2023, to extend the 180-day exchange period to the later of October 16, 2023 or 120 days after the original 180-day deadline date.

How do I avoid capital gains tax on my house? ›

How to avoid capital gains tax on real estate
  1. Live in the house for at least two years. The two years don't need to be consecutive, but house-flippers should beware. ...
  2. See whether you qualify for an exception. ...
  3. Keep the receipts for your home improvements.
Mar 8, 2023

Can I sell two properties and buy one in a 1031 exchange? ›

SELLING MULTIPLE PROPERTIES IN AN SECTION 1031

When performing a Section 1031 tax-deferred exchange, an exchanger may sell multiple relinquished properties in a single exchange, exchanging several properties into one (or multiple) replacement properties.

Can you live in a 1031 exchange property after 2 years? ›

Your personal use of the property, including occupancy, must not exceed either 14 days or 10% of the total number of days you rented out the property within 12 months. This exchange only applies to single-owner properties. Once the 24 months conclude, you can move into the property and declare it a primary residence.

Can a second home be considered for 1031 exchange? ›

The bottom line is that second homes, or vacation homes, are not considered investment use property solely based upon the hope the property will appreciate and in order for a valid Internal Revenue Code Section 1031 states that "no gain or loss shall be recognized on the exchange of property held for productive use in ...

What is the most common 1031? ›

Delayed 1031 Exchange

This 1031 real estate exchange program is the most common. The investor relinquishes their property before acquiring the replacement property. In other words, you first transfer the property you want to give up before securing the desired replacement.

What is a lazy 1031? ›

The 1031 Exchange is an option that allows active real estate investors to sell a property and subsequently defer the taxes from capital gains and depreciation recapture as long as they buy a “like-kind” property within a certain timeframe that is of equal or greater value.

Should I do a 1031 exchange or pay capital gains? ›

The main benefit of carrying out a 1031 exchange rather than simply selling one property and buying another is the tax deferral. A 1031 exchange allows you to defer capital gains tax, thus freeing more capital for investment in the replacement property.

Do I have to pay capital gains tax immediately? ›

You only pay the capital gains tax after you sell an asset. Let's say you bought your home 2 years ago and it's increased in value by $10,000. You don't need to pay the tax until you sell the home.

What is capital gains tax on 200000? ›

= $
Single TaxpayerMarried Filing JointlyCapital Gain Tax Rate
$0 – $44,625$0 – $89,2500%
$44,626 – $200,000$89,251 – $250,00015%
$200,001 – $492,300$250,001 – $553,85015%
$492,301+$553,851+20%
Jan 11, 2023

Are closing costs deductible in a 1031 exchange? ›

Certain expenses paid at a closing are considered “exchange expenses” and using exchange funds to pay those expenses won't result in any tax liability to an investor doing a 1031 exchange.

How many times can you do a 1031 exchange in a year? ›

There is no restriction on the number of times you can participate in a 1031 exchange. As long as you meet all the requirements and have an experienced intermediary by your side, you can use this tool as often as possible to minimize your capital gains taxes.

What happens if 1031 exchange falls through? ›

The advice generally rendered is that your 1031 Exchange has failed and will not qualify for tax deferred treatment; in short, it's taxable. It may not be taxable immediately, however, depending on a number of factors.

How does a 1031 exchange affect the seller? ›

A 1031 Exchange allows owners of business or investment property to defer the recognition of the capital gains tax normally due upon the sale of the property so long as they use the proceeds to buy another business or investment property of equal or greater value.

What is the 95% 200% rule in 1031? ›

The 95% rule says that a taxpayer can identify more than three properties with a total value that is more than 200% of the value of the relinquished property, but only if the taxpayer acquires at least 95% of the value of the properties that he identifies.

What can 1031 exchange funds be used for? ›

The exchange funds can be used only to buy Replacement Property, pay closing costs or pay off a mortgage or deed of trust covering the Relinquished Property.

Do I have to reinvest all proceeds in a 1031 exchange? ›

In a standard 1031 exchange, you need to reinvest 100% of the proceeds from the sale of your relinquished property to defer all capital gains taxes. In a partial 1031 exchange, you can decide to keep a portion of the proceeds. This boot amount is taxable, while the money you reinvest is not.

Do you have to sell first in a 1031 exchange? ›

In a traditional 1031 exchange, the investor sells the identified property first but must ensure that they do not take possession of the proceeds from the sale. For that reason, engaging in a 1031 transaction requires using a Qualified Intermediary throughout the process.

Can you do a 1031 without a Qualified Intermediary? ›

To have a valid 1031 exchange, a qualified intermediary (“QI”) must be assigned the seller's rights to proceeds under the contract and transfer the relinquished property on behalf of the seller, pursuant to an exchange agreement.

Which states do not recognize 1031 exchanges? ›

Four states – California, Oregon, Montana, and Massachusetts – have what's known as clawback provisions. These states impose a state tax on any realized gains from the sale of investment properties.

Can you do a 1031 exchange in two different states? ›

The answer is yes, it is possible to trade into property located in another state. Under Internal Revenue Code Section 1031, real estate located in one U.S. state is like kind to real estate located in any other state, and you can trade from one state to another.

How long do you have to buy another house to avoid capital gains California? ›

The two years don't need to be consecutive, but house-flippers should beware. If you sell a house that you didn't live in for at least two years, the gains can be taxable.

What is better than a 1031 exchange? ›

Unlike a 1031 exchange, a DST allows the seller to diversify into other holdings, including assets or financial instruments that are not typically allowed by other capital gain deferral methods, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds.

What state is best for 1031 exchange? ›

States like Florida, Texas, and Nevada are great options for 1031 exchanges due to their lack of state income tax and strong real estate markets. On the other hand, states like California, New York, and Oregon can be less attractive due to their high state income tax rates and strict real estate laws.

Should I pay capital gains tax or do a 1031 exchange? ›

The main benefit of carrying out a 1031 exchange rather than simply selling one property and buying another is the tax deferral. A 1031 exchange allows you to defer capital gains tax, thus freeing more capital for investment in the replacement property.

Can you do a 1031 exchange and then live in it? ›

Your personal use of the property, including occupancy, must not exceed either 14 days or 10% of the total number of days you rented out the property within 12 months. This exchange only applies to single-owner properties. Once the 24 months conclude, you can move into the property and declare it a primary residence.

How do I avoid capital gains tax on my property in California? ›

You do not have to report the sale of your home if all of the following apply:
  1. Your gain from the sale was less than $250,000.
  2. You have not used the exclusion in the last 2 years.
  3. You owned and occupied the home for at least 2 years.
Nov 22, 2022

How to avoid capital gains tax on investment property in California? ›

4 ways to avoid capital gains tax on a rental property
  1. Purchase properties using your retirement account. ...
  2. Convert the property to a primary residence. ...
  3. Use tax harvesting. ...
  4. Use a 1031 tax deferred exchange.
Jan 20, 2023

What is the 2 out of 5 rule? ›

The 2-out-of-five-year rule states that you must have both owned and lived in your home for a minimum of two out of the last five years before the date of sale. However, these two years don't have to be consecutive, and you don't have to live there on the date of the sale.

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