
Changing ownership of replacement property after a 1031 exchange can be a complex process, but understanding the key facts can help streamline the process. The replacement property must be identified within 45 days of the relinquished property's transfer.
The replacement property can be a single property or multiple properties, and it can be located anywhere in the world. The total value of the replacement properties must be equal to or greater than the total value of the relinquished property.
The replacement property's title must be transferred to a qualified intermediary or an escrow agent to ensure the exchange is structured correctly. This is a crucial step to avoid any potential tax liabilities.
In cases where the replacement property's title is already in the taxpayer's name, it can be transferred to the qualified intermediary or escrow agent without any issues.
Changing Ownership
Changing ownership of replacement property after a 1031 exchange is possible, but it's essential to be aware of the rules to avoid invalidating the exchange.

Holding onto the replacement property for investment or business purposes is a fundamental rule of 1031 exchanges, and failing to do so may result in the IRS considering the exchange void.
To avoid this, it's recommended to hold onto the replacement property for a substantial period of time before changing ownership, although the exact duration depends on your situation and the property in question.
The IRS may consider a change in ownership a violation of the 1031 rules if the replacement property is transferred to someone else soon after the exchange, potentially leaving you with a big tax bill.
Changing Property Ownership Post-1031 Exchange
Changing property ownership post-1031 exchange can be a bit tricky, but it's not impossible. The key is to understand the rules and follow them carefully.
If you acquired a replacement property in a 1031 exchange, you must hold onto it for investment or business purposes to avoid violating the 1031 rules. This is a fundamental rule of 1031 exchanges, and it's crucial to abide by it.

You can transfer ownership of the property to someone else, but be aware that this could potentially trigger the realization of gain and subject you to capital gains taxes. This is because the tax liability is on an individual basis, and any change in ownership could be a problem.
Waiting several years before changing ownership is a good idea, as this should give the IRS enough time to consider the exchange as "old and cold." This can help avoid any potential issues with the IRS.
Minnesota Exchanges
Minnesota Exchanges are a specialty of CPEC1031, a company with 20 years of experience facilitating 1031 exchanges. They have a track record of successfully handling all types of exchanges.
Their 1031 exchange professionals are available to help you get started, and they have offices around the country, with a primary location in downtown Minneapolis.
Title and Timing
When changing ownership of replacement property after a 1031 exchange, it's essential to consider the title and timing of the transaction.

You have 45 days from the sale of the relinquished property to identify potential replacement properties, and 180 days to complete the exchange. This timeline is crucial to avoid any potential pitfalls.
The new owner of the replacement property must be a qualifying entity, such as a limited liability company or a trust, to qualify for the tax benefits of the exchange.
Title
The title of the replacement property must match exactly the title of the relinquished property. This means that if you held the first property in the name of your LLC, you cannot purchase the second one under your personal name.
To avoid any potential issues, it's essential to document any changes to the title, such as adding a spouse to the title, if required by your lender. This will help you prove that the change was made for financing reasons, not to avoid tax liability.
Timing
Timing is crucial in a 1031 exchange. The IRS has issued safe harbor guidelines that define a "qualifying use" period, which requires investors to hold a property for at least two years before engaging in a 1031 exchange.

The holding period for relinquished properties is not specifically defined, but experts recommend holding a property for at least two years. This allows for a smooth transition and minimizes potential issues.
There are no written rules for the minimum holding period for relinquished properties, leaving some flexibility. However, sticking to the recommended two-year holding period can provide peace of mind.
The holding period for replacement properties is also not specifically defined. Experts typically recommend holding a property for at least one to two years before changing ownership.
Investor Actions
To qualify for a safe harbor in a 1031 exchange, it's essential that you've held the relinquished investment property for two years before the sale. This requirement applies to both commercial and residential properties used for investment.
For residential assets, you must also demonstrate that the property is used for investment by showing the time it's rented to others compared to use by the owner or family members. This is crucial to maintain safe harbor eligibility.
Illinois Land Trust Beneficiary

An Illinois Land Trust Beneficiary can hold title to property, but it's essential to understand the rules surrounding this type of ownership.
The IRS has confirmed that a beneficiary of an Illinois Land Trust can sell property and qualify for a real estate exchange under Section 1031, as stated in Private Letter Ruling 92-105.
This ruling provides clarity for sellers who have faced uncertainty in the past about how to proceed with a sale.
Before and After 1031, Investor Actions Matter
To qualify for safe harbor eligibility, you must have held the relinquished investment property for two years before the sale.
Investors who have held their properties for less than two years may still be eligible for a 1031 exchange, but they'll need to meet other requirements.
The IRS requires a two-year holding period for commercial properties or residential property used for investment.
You'll also need to demonstrate that your residential property is used for investment by showing how much time it's rented to others versus being used by the owner or family members.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a 1031 exchange affect the seller of replacement property?
A 1031 exchange allows sellers to defer capital gains taxes on the sale of their original property, but it does not eliminate taxes on the replacement property. Taxes on the replacement property will be due when it is sold or disposed of in the future
How long do you have to hold a replacement property after a 1031 exchange?
You must hold a replacement property for at least 5 years after a 1031 exchange to avoid tax implications. This is known as the Five-Year Holding Period Rule.
Sources
- https://www.cpec1031.com/blog/how-to-change-ownership-of-a-property-after-1031-exchange
- https://www.accruit.com/blog/same-taxpayer-requirement-1031-tax-deferred-exchange
- https://www2.1031dst.com/insights/how-to-change-ownership-of-a-1031-exchange-property
- https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/changing-property-ownership-after-a-1031-exchange
- https://www.realized1031.com/blog/changing-ownership-of-replacement-property-after-a-1031-exchange-what-you-need-to-know
Featured Images: pexels.com