The Realized Team’s Picks

How to Plan a 1031 Exchange When Your Spouse Wants to Retire but You Don’t (Yet)

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Balancing divergent retirement plans can be a delicate act, especially when real estate investments are involved. When your spouse is ready to retire, but you still see more years of investment potential, it requires strategic foresight to manage both personal and financial goals. A 1031 exchange might be an ideal solution, allowing for the deferral of capital gains taxes and providing an opportunity to realign investment strategies.

Mar 9, 2026

Should You Pay Off Your Rental Mortgage Before a 1031 Exchange? Tax and Cash Flow Tradeoffs

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Investment property owners often find themselves balancing multiple financial strategies to maximize their returns and minimize liabilities. One such critical decision is whether to pay off a rental property's mortgage before executing a 1031 Exchange. This decision can impact both the cash flow and tax liabilities associated with the exchange.

Mar 9, 2026

Can You 1031 Exchange Into a DST and Then Into Another DST? How the ‘Perpetual Exchange’ Works

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The realm of real estate investment offers a myriad of avenues for those seeking to maximize their assets while minimizing tax liabilities. Among these, the 1031 exchange remains a pivotal strategy, allowing investors to defer capital gains taxes by reinvesting proceeds from the sale of real estate into a like-kind property. Within this sphere, Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) have garnered increased attention for their potential to facilitate "perpetual exchanges."

Mar 8, 2026

What Happens When a DST Ends? Options for Long-Time Landlords Facing a Full-Cycle Event

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For long-time landlords and seasoned real estate investors, a Delaware Statutory Trust (DST) can be a compelling way to defer taxes and manage a real estate portfolio without the day-to-day landlord duties. However, like all investments, DSTs have a lifecycle. When a DST reaches its end—often referred to as a full-cycle event—investors are faced with critical decisions. Understanding these options is essential to effectively manage the transition and maximize financial outcomes.

Second (and Third) 1031 Exchanges: How Many Times Can You Defer Taxes on the Same Property?

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For seasoned real estate investors, the allure of the 1031 exchange lies in its ability to defer capital gains taxes by reinvesting in like-kind property. However, what unfolds when an investor revisits the same piece of real estate again and again, each time choosing to defer gains through subsequent exchanges? Is there a ceiling on this clever tax strategy?

Mar 7, 2026

From Landlord to Investor: A Practical Guide to Moving into DSTs in Your 60s

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As you enter your 60s, the prospect of managing your investment properties can become increasingly daunting. The tenant calls, maintenance tasks, and fluctuating real estate markets may no longer align with your desire for a more relaxed pace of life. This is where Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) offer an appealing alternative, transforming the role of a hands-on landlord into that of a passive investor.

Should Long-Time Landlords Still Do a 1031 Exchange, or Is It Time to Cash Out?

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For long-time landlords, the decision between leveraging a 1031 Exchange or cashing out on their investment property can be pivotal. Each option offers distinct advantages and potential drawbacks, but focusing on long-term goals and current market conditions can provide clarity.

How to Talk to CPAs and Attorneys About 1031 and DST Strategies

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Navigating the complexities of investment property transactions can be daunting, especially when it involves intricate processes like 1031 exchanges and Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs). It's crucial for property owners to engage effectively with Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and attorneys who play pivotal roles in these transitions. Here’s a guide to help you communicate more effectively with these professionals.

Mar 6, 2026

How Are DST Distributions Taxed?

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Real estate investors often seek instruments that provide regular income while deferring taxes, which is why Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) have become increasingly popular. These trusts allow investors to pool resources to acquire institutional-grade real estate, diversifying their portfolio in a more significant way than they could independently. However, a crucial element of this investment is understanding the tax implications of DST distributions.

Estate Planning for Investment Property Owners: What to Do Before You Sell

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Estate planning can be a daunting task, especially for investment property owners considering selling their assets. Owning investment properties entails various responsibilities, from managing tenants and maintaining the physical condition of properties to understanding the financial implications of selling them. If you plan to sell your investment property, it is crucial to have an estate planning strategy in place to ensure a smooth transition of your assets. Here are some key considerations for investment property owners before selling:

Mar 4, 2026

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