Most real estate investors understand the general concept of a 1031 exchange or, at the very least, have heard of it. Few, however, understand exactly what takes place within one of these exchanges and how powerful a tool it truly is. So let’s explore a subject that is close to everyone’s heart: not paying taxes on hard-earned money!

What’s in it for Uncle Sam?

So, why does the IRS Section 1031 like-kind tax-deferred exchange exist in the first place? After all, doesn’t the government relish every taxable opportunity? While the government is certainly not adverse to taxation, they also use the tax code as a tool, encouraging or discouraging certain acts they deem beneficial or detrimental to the economy. As it turns out, the private sector is pretty darn good at providing housing to society (a lot better than the government). As such, Uncle Sam provides various benefits to real property owners (mortgage interest deductions, real estate investment expense deductions, ability to depreciate, etc.).