Utilizing a 1031 Exchange for Constructing an Investment Property

By Paul Chastain on June 17, 2023

Utilizing a 1031 Exchange for Constructing an Investment Property

A 1031 exchange serves as a valuable tool for real estate investors seeking to defer the payment of capital gains taxes when selling an investment property and reinvesting the proceeds. Without utilizing a 1031 exchange, a sale and subsequent purchase would result in capital gains taxes being owed on the difference between the adjusted basis and the sale price.

To illustrate, let's consider an example. Imagine you have owned a piece of land for five years, initially acquiring it for $250,000 along with associated acquisition costs. Over time, you invested $100,000 in improvements, bringing your adjusted basis to $350,000.

If you decide to sell the property for $600,000, you would be liable for capital gains taxes on the $250,000 difference. Depending on your tax bracket, this could amount to $50,000 if you are in the highest bracket.

Let's consider an alternative scenario where you opt for a 1031 exchange, adhering to the procedures and timelines set forth by the IRS, to reinvest the proceeds from the sale into a new property. This strategic approach enables you to invest the entire $600,000 rather than just $550,000, creating a significant financial advantage. Key requirements for a successful 1031 exchange include:

  1. Engaging a Qualified Intermediary (QI): It is essential to work with a Qualified Intermediary who will facilitate the entire process. The QI establishes an account to hold and manage the sale proceeds between the initial property sale and the final acquisition.
  1. Timelines and Identification: Within 45 days of the sale, you must identify potential replacement properties that meet the criteria outlined by the IRS. Subsequently, you must complete the purchases (or purchases) within 180 days from the initial sale date, ensuring strict compliance with the prescribed timelines.
  1. Value and Debt Matching: To meet the requirements of a 1031 exchange, the value and debt levels of the new investment property should be equal to or greater than those of the relinquished property. This balance helps maintain the integrity of the exchange process.

While a 1031 exchange for investment property construction entails a complex transaction and tight timelines, the tax deferral can provide an opportunity for increased leverage in the reinvestment process. Additionally, utilizing this tool for subsequent investments can lead to a transfer upon your passing, whereby the heir receives the property at its stepped-up value, ultimately eliminating any deferred taxes.

Exploring Building Opportunities within a 1031 Exchange

Couple exploring building opportunities within a 1031 exchange for their new construction investment property

If you have aspirations to build on the replacement property acquired through a 1031 exchange, there are avenues to pursue. The approach depends on the initial value and condition of the replacement property:

  1. Equivalent Value: If the replacement property, in its current state, is already of equal value to the relinquished asset, you have the freedom to proceed with the exchange and embark on your desired construction project.
  1. Value Enhancement: However, if the designated replacement property requires improvements to match the value of the relinquished asset, certain conditions must be met. The required work must be completed within the 180-day timeframe allocated for the exchange. Additionally, as part of the identification process within the initial 45 days, the investor must outline the planned improvements for the replacement property.

In conclusion, while it is possible to transact a 1031 exchange into new construction, there are important considerations to keep in mind. The replacement property must meet the requirement of being equal to or greater in value than the relinquished asset. If you plan to sell a retail property and embark on constructing a multifamily housing structure on vacant land, there are additional complexities involved.

If the value of the new asset already matches that of the original property, the process is straightforward. However, if the new acquisition initially holds a lower value due to ongoing construction, it must be completed within the 180-day exchange period. Throughout this period, the title should be held by a qualified intermediary.

To successfully navigate a 1031 exchange into new construction, it is vital for investors to diligently follow the rules and timelines set forth by the IRS. Engaging the services of a skilled intermediary can provide invaluable assistance in ensuring compliance and facilitating a smooth transaction. By carefully adhering to the guidelines and working with experienced professionals, investors can leverage the benefits of a 1031 exchange while pursuing their new construction projects.

General Disclosure

Not an offer to buy, nor a solicitation to sell securities. All investing involves risk of loss of some or all principal invested. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Speak to your finance and/or tax professional prior to investing. Any information provided is for informational purposes only.

Securities offered through Emerson Equity LLC Member: FINRA/SIPC. Only available in states where Emerson Equity LLC is registered. Emerson Equity LLC is not affiliated with any other entities identified in this communication. 

1031 Risk Disclosure: 

  • There’s no guarantee any strategy will be successful or achieve investment objectives; 
  • All real estate investments have the potential to lose value during the life of the investments; 
  • The income stream and depreciation schedule for any investment property may affect the property owner’s income bracket and/or tax status. An unfavorable tax ruling may cancel deferral of capital gains and result in immediate tax liabilities; 
  • All financed real estate investments have potential for foreclosure; 
  • These 1031 exchanges are offered through private placement offerings and are illiquid securities. There is no secondary market for these investments. 
  • If a property unexpectedly loses tenants or sustains substantial damage, there is potential for suspension of cash flow distributions; 
  • Costs associated with the transaction may impact investors’ returns and may outweigh the tax benefits
Article written by Paul Chastain

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Securities offered through Emerson Equity LLC, member FINRA / SIPC. This is not an offer to buy or sell securities. Securities investing carries an inherent risk of loss of some or all of the principal invested. We are not tax professionals. You should always discuss your investments with a tax professional prior to investing. Securities are sold only in those states where Emerson Equity LLC is registered. Perch Wealth LLC and Emerson Equity LLC are not affiliated. COMPANY and Emerson Equity LLC do not provide legal or tax advice. Securities offered through Emerson Equity LLC Member FINRA / SIPC and MSRB registered. Emerson Equity LLC is unaffiliated with any entity herein.
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Perch Financial LLC and Emerson Equity LLC do not provide legal or tax advice. Securities offered through Emerson Equity LLC Member FINRA/SIPC and MSRB registered. Emerson Equity LLC is unaffiliated with any entity herein. 1031 Risk Disclosure:

 

  • There is no guarantee that any strategy will be successful or achieve investment objectives;
  • Potential for property value loss – All real estate investments have the potential to lose value during the life of the investments;
  • Change of tax status – The income stream and depreciation schedule for any investment property may affect the property owner’s income bracket and/or tax status. An unfavorable tax ruling may cancel deferral of capital gains and result in immediate tax liabilities;
  • Potential for foreclosure – All financed real estate investments have potential for foreclosure; ·Illiquidity – Because 1031 exchanges are commonly offered through private placement offerings and are illiquid securities. There is no secondary market for these investments;
  • Reduction or Elimination of Monthly Cash Flow Distributions – Like any investment in real estate, if a property unexpectedly loses tenants or sustains substantial damage, there is potential for suspension of cash flow distributions;
  • Impact of fees/expenses – Costs associated with the transaction may impact investors’ returns and may outweigh the tax benefits


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