Why do Fix and Flips Not Get Along With 1031 Exchanges?
I have said it before, and I will say it again; a 1031 is all about the intent. A 1031 exchange is designed to help investors exchange investment real estate while deferring capital gains tax. To qualify as investment real estate a property must be held for productive use. Productive use is a rather broad phrase that essentially means “The land must be doing something.” It could be used for renting, appreciation, agriculture, etc. It just has to be clear that the intent of the land is for productive use.
A fix and flip is a property that is bought to be sold. There is no intent to hold the property for productive use. As such it will not qualify for a 1031 until it can be proven that the real estate in question is for more than just selling. If you really want to carry out a 1031, your local tax guru might have a few ideas on how you can demonstrate your intent to hold your property for investment.