1031 Exchange Calculator – Real Estate Capital Gains & Depreciation Recapture Tax Deferral
What is an IRS Section 1031 Like-Kind Exchange?
Under Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code, real estate investors can sell an appreciated investment or commercial property and defer 100% of federal capital gains taxes, state taxes, and depreciation recapture taxes by rolling all net sale proceeds into a like-kind replacement property.
The 4 Pillars of a 100% Tax-Deferred Exchange
- Equal or Greater Value Rule: The purchase price of the replacement property must be equal to or greater than the net sales price of the relinquished property.
- Reinvest All Cash Equity: All net equity from the sale must be reinvested. Any cash taken out is considered 'Cash Boot' and is subject to immediate taxation.
- Equal or Greater Mortgage Debt: Debt on the replacement property must equal or exceed debt paid off on the relinquished property, otherwise 'Mortgage Boot' triggers tax liability.
- Qualified Intermediary (QI) Mandate: Investors cannot touch or hold the sale funds. An independent Qualified Intermediary must hold funds in escrow.
Frequently asked questions
Can I exchange a rental home for an apartment building or land?
Yes! Under Section 1031, 'like-kind' is interpreted very broadly. Any real estate held for productive investment or business use can be exchanged for any other investment real estate (e.g. single-family rental for commercial retail or raw land).
Can I do a 1031 exchange on my primary residence?
No. Section 1031 applies strictly to investment or business properties. Primary residences are covered under IRC Section 121 ($250k / $500k capital gains exclusion).
What happens to deferred taxes upon death?
If you hold exchanged real estate until death, your heirs receive a full 'stepped-up basis' to fair market value under IRC § 1014, permanently erasing all lifetime deferred capital gains and depreciation recapture taxes.
Check pre-qualified investor loan and HELOC rates from verified nationwide lenders with zero credit score impact.