The 1031 exchange has been a powerful vehicle for real estate investors to defer capital gains taxes. It has always seemed like the way to go, but I had this opportunity back in 2015, and even then, the time restrictions and available supply just felt like too much to pull off. The qualified intermediary with whom I spoke practically talked me out of it. I don't think he was aware of the type of properties one could exchange into, and for that reason, limited my view as I only opened my mind to a similar property. 

Had I only done more homework, and broadened my perspective, I may have discovered that I could take my gain and invest it into a real estate syndication and reap incredible rewards. We recently had an investor "exchange" into one of our syndications, and I have to say that I am a bit jealous. I think I would have preferred his $75k annual income stream to my $100k tax burden. Not to mention his healthy share of the backend. A generous chunk of equity can serve you well in this world. Be wise with it.