5 Important Facts About Seller Financing with 1031 Exchange | DST Investment

For those unfamiliar with the term, 1031 exchange refers to the Internal Revenue Service code that allows investors to defer capital gains taxes on property sale as long as the proceeds are reinvested in a “like-kind” property. Seller financing can be used as a tool in a 1031 exchange, but there are some important facts that potential sellers and buyers should be aware of before entering into such an arrangement.

In this article, we will discuss:

  1. What is a 1031 exchange?
  2. What is seller financing?
  3. How can seller financing be used in a 1031 exchange?
  4. What are the benefits and risks of using seller financing in a 1031 exchange?
  5. What are some things to consider if you consider using seller financing in a 1031 exchange?

What is a 1031 exchange?

A 1031 exchange, also known as a like-kind exchange, is a way for investors to defer capital gains taxes on the sale of property by reinvesting the proceeds from the sale into another “like-kind” property. In order to qualify for this tax deferral, the investor must identify the replacement property within 45 days of the sale of the original property and must close on the replacement property within 180 days of the sale of the original property.

What is seller financing?

Seller financing is when the seller of a property agrees to provide financing to the buyer to help them purchase the property. This can be done in several ways by providing a mortgage or deed of trust on the property, providing a promissory note, or some combination thereof.

How can seller financing be used in a 1031 exchange?

Seller financing can be used as a tool in a 1031 exchange to help the investor qualify for the exchange. In order to do this, the investor must use the proceeds from the sale of the original property to purchase a promissory note from the seller of the replacement property. This note can then be used to help finance the purchase of the replacement property.

What are the benefits and risks of using seller financing in a 1031 exchange?

There are both benefits and risks to using seller financing in a 1031 exchange. One benefit is that it can help the investor qualify for the exchange by allowing them to use the proceeds from the sale of the original property to purchase a promissory note. 

Another benefit is that it can provide additional flexibility in structuring the exchange. However, there are also some risks to consider. One risk is that if the buyer defaults on the loan, the investor could lose their investment. Another risk is that the interest rate on the loan may be higher than market rates, which could eat into the investor’s profits.

Relinquished Property Buyer’s Note Used to Purchase Replacement Property

If the taxpayer elects to use seller financing in a 1031 exchange, the promissory note used to finance the purchase of the replacement property must be secured by the replacement property. The taxpayer must also have an agreement with the seller that they will not sell or transfer the promissory note before the exchange’s closing.

Note Buyout by Taxpayer Before Replacement Property Purchase

Another important thing to consider is that if the taxpayer decides to buy out the promissory note before closing on the replacement property, they will be required to pay capital gains taxes on the sale of the original property.

What are some things to consider if you consider using seller financing in a 1031 exchange?

If you are considering using seller financing in a 1031 exchange, there are some things you should keep in mind. These include:

  1. Make sure you understand the 1031 exchange process and requirements.
  2. Be aware of the benefits and risks of using seller financing in a 1031 exchange.
  3. Work with a qualified professional to help you structure the exchange correctly.
  4. Make sure you understand the loan terms and conditions before agreeing.
  5. Be sure to consult with your tax advisor to ensure that using seller financing in a 1031 exchange is right for you and your situation.

Seller financing can be a useful tool in a 1031 exchange, but there are some important things to keep in mind before entering into such an arrangement. By understanding the process and risks involved, you can help ensure that your exchange is successful.

How Can I Find a Professional for Help?

If you are considering using seller financing in a 1031 exchange, it is important to work with a qualified professional to help you structure the exchange correctly. There are incredible risks to using seller financing in a 1031 exchange, and you need to make sure that you understand all of the loan terms and conditions before agreeing.

What Makes a Firm Reputable?

When searching for a reputable firm to help with your 1031 exchange, you want to look for a few key things. First, you want to ensure that the firm is qualified and has experience helping investors with 1031 exchanges. Second, you want to make sure that the firm is reputable and has a good track record. Finally, you want to make sure that the firm is transparent and upfront about its fees.

You can find a list of qualified intermediaries on the IRS website or look for firms that are members of the National Association of Realtors or the American Bar Association.

When you are ready to start your 1031 exchange, contact a reputable firm to help you structure the exchange correctly and minimize your risk.

Final Thoughts

Seller financing can be a useful tool in a 1031 exchange, but there are some important things to keep in mind before entering into such an arrangement. By understanding the process and risks involved, you can help ensure that your exchange is prosperous. If you take the time to find a reputable firm to help with your exchange, you can minimize the risk and maximize the chances of success.

We have a team of qualified professionals who can help you with your exchange at our firm. We will work with you to make sure that everything is done correctly and according to the rules set forth by the IRS. To learn more about our services or to get started on your exchange, contact us today!