California 1031 Exchange Timeline: The 45-Day and 180-Day Milestones Explained
By Thao DP Nguyen7 min read
A tax-deferred exchange can protect investment capital, but its timelines are unforgiving. Understand the key dates, professional team, and property-identification decisions before you sell.
The Internal Revenue Code Section 1031 exchange process allows qualifying real estate investors to defer capital-gains taxes by reinvesting proceeds in like-kind replacement real estate. It also demands careful execution from day one.
Generally, investors must identify replacement property or properties within 45 days of closing their relinquished property and complete the acquisition within 180 days. A qualified intermediary must be in place before closing; funds cannot pass through the investor directly.
Because deadlines, purchase criteria, financing, and contingency periods often collide, the most reliable approach is to align your real estate advisor, qualified intermediary, CPA, and lender before your current asset is listed.
This article is general information, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Consult a qualified professional about your situation.
About the author
Thao DP Nguyen
California Real Estate Salesperson since 2005, serving Anaheim and Orange County buyers, sellers, and investors under responsible broker Century Financial Group, Corp. (DRE #01930905).
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