The identification period in a delayed exchange begins on the date the Exchanger transfers the relinquished property and ends at midnight on the 45th calendar day thereafter. To qualify for a §1031 tax deferred exchange, the tax code requires identifying the replacement property:
* In a written document signed by the Exchanger;
* Hand delivered, mailed, telecopied, or otherwise sent;
* Before the end of the identification period to:
(1) either the person obligated to transfer the replacement property to the Exchanger (generally the “Qualified Intermediary”) or
(2) any other person involved in the exchange other than the taxpayer or a disqualified person.
The replacement property must be unambiguously described (i.e. legal description, street address or distinguishable name). The type of property should be described in a personal property exchange.
ADDITIONAL ISSUES
Exchangers acquiring a property which is being constructed must identify this property and the improvements in as much detail as in practical at the time the identification is made. Exchangers who intend to acquire less than a 100% ownership interest in the replacement property should specify the specific percentage interest. Exchangers should always consult with their tax and/or legal advisors about the specific identification rules and restrictions.
Any properties acquired within the 45-day identification period are considered properly identified. An investor has the ability to substitutes new replacement properties by revoking a previous identification and correctly identifying new replacement properties as long as this is done in writing within the 45-day identification period.
Although Exchangers can identify more than one replacement property, the maximum number of properties that can be identified is limited to:
A) Three properties without regard to their fair market value.
B) Any number of properties so long as their aggregate fair market value does not exceed 200% of the aggregate fair market value of all relinquished properties. (200% Rule)
C) Any number of properties without regard to the combined fair market value, as long as the properties acquired amount to at least ninety-five percent (95%) of the fair market value of all identified properties. (95% Rule)
TM 1031 Exchange and Asset Preservation, Inc. do not give tax or legal
advice. The information contained herein should not be relied upon as a
substitute for tax or legal advice obtained from a competent tax and/or
legal advisor.
(c) Copyright 2005 Stewart Title Guaranty Company
