--- title: Investor Exit Strategies from 1031 Exchanges and DSTs description: In the world of real estate investing, understanding exit strategies is crucial for investors to maximize their returns and minimize tax liabilities. image: https://blog.fgg1031.com/hubfs/images/blog/Investor%20Exit%20Strategies%20from%201031%20Exchanges%20and%20DSTs/Investor%20Exit%20Strategies%20from%201031%20Exchanges%20and%20DSTs.jpeg --- [info@firstguardiangroup.com](mailto:) [(866)398-1031](tel:(866)398-1031) [![fgg](https://blog.fgg1031.com/hubfs/FirstGuardianGroup_2022/fgg.png)](https://brokercheck.finra.org/individual/summary/6470002) [![fgg-871923](https://blog.fgg1031.com/hubfs/FirstGuardianGroup_2023/fgg-871923.png)](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/san-jose/profile/commercial-real-estate/first-guardian-group-1216-887513) [![logo](https://blog.fgg1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/FirstGuardianGroup_2022/logo.png?width=175&height=56&name=logo.png "logo")](http://fgg1031.com) - [Home](https://fgg1031.com/) - [About Us](https://fgg1031.com/about-us/) - [Current Offerings](https://fgg1031.com/property-listings-directory/) - [Resource Center](https://fgg1031.com/resource-center/) - [Glossary](https://fgg1031.com/glossary/) - [Accommodators](https://fgg1031.com/accommodators/) - [FAQ](https://fgg1031.com/faqs/) - [Tax eBook](https://pages.fgg1031.com/resources/real-estate-tax-deferral-strategies-ebook) - [Real Estate eBook](https://pages.fgg1031.com/real-estate-investing-in-the-new-era2) - [QI eBook](https://pages.fgg1031.com/resources/qualifiedintermediary/ebook) - [Tax Calculator](https://fgg1031.com/tax-calculator/) - [Newsroom](https://fgg1031.com/newsroom/) - [Blog](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog) - [Events](https://fgg1031.com/events/) - [Contact Us](https://fgg1031.com/contact/) ![search-interface-symbol](https://blog.fgg1031.com/hubfs/FirstGuardianGroup_2022/search-interface-symbol.png) ![loader](https://f.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/24949188/Business%20and%20Finance/global/22.gif) ![close](https://blog.fgg1031.com/hubfs/FirstGuardianGroup_2022/close.png) From Pages From Blog Pages Load More Load More **Sorry, we couldn't find a match for  "".** Check your spelling or try a related search term. [![Register](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/5468919/d02a3ee4-7db2-4d64-b925-a6ebbfe26664.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/5468919/d02a3ee4-7db2-4d64-b925-a6ebbfe26664) ![blog-template-banner](https://blog.fgg1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Banner/blog-template-banner.png?width=1920&name=blog-template-banner.png "blog-template-banner") # Blog ### Subscribe to Our Blog ### Subscribe to Email Updates ## Featured Post   [Paul Getty](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/author/paul-getty) ## [721 UPREIT Options in DST Programs (Part 3)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/721-upreit-options-in-dst-programs) We have previously written two blog posts on 721 UPREIT options which discuss basic concepts which I encourage readers to review prior to reading this b\[...\] [Real Estate Investors](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/topic/real-estate-investors) [DST](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/topic/dst) [721 Exchange](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/topic/721-exchange) [UPREIT](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/topic/upreit) [Read More](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/721-upreit-options-in-dst-programs) ## Recent Posts [Blog](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/topic/blog) [1031 Exchange](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/topic/1031-exchange) # Investor Exit Strategies from 1031 Exchanges and DSTs By [Paul Getty](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/author/paul-getty) In the world of real estate investing, particularly in the realm of 1031 exchanges and Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs), understanding exit strategies is crucial for investors to maximize their returns and minimize tax liabilities.  Exit strategies differ between 1031 exchange investors and DST investors due to the unique characteristics and regulations governing each investment structure. This article highlights those differences as well as the benefits and limitations of each approach. ## Exit Strategies for 1031 Exchange Investors Investors engaged in 1031 exchanges, the 100-year-old tax-advantaged investment strategy for real estate investors, primarily have two exit options: ### Cashing Out This is the most straightforward approach where investors sell their property and exit 1031 exchange structures. The primary benefit here is liquidity and immediate access to funds. However, this method can trigger significant tax consequences. The investor becomes liable for paying federal and state capital gains taxes, a depreciation recapture tax, and potentially the Medicare surtax. This route is generally less appealing for those seeking to maintain tax efficiency. There may be options to mitigate these tax consequences, e.g., applying passive losses if available, but, for most investors, the tax obligations remain significant. Investors can also decide to withdraw a portion of their sales proceeds with the remainder being reinvested via a partial 1031 exchange.  ### Continued 1031 Exchanges Alternatively, investors can opt to reinvest the proceeds from the sale into another like-kind property, continuing the cycle of tax deferral using another 1031 exchange. This method, known as a 'swap till you drop' strategy, allows investors to defer capital gains taxes indefinitely. It's an effective wealth-building strategy over time and can also serve as a tool for estate planning. Upon the death of the investor, the property can be passed on to heirs with a stepped-up tax basis, potentially reducing the tax burden. ## Exit Strategies for DST Investors DST investors, who invest in trusts that own and manage like-kind real estate assets that comply with 1031 exchange rules, have more diverse exit options: ### Cashing Out Upon the sale of DST interests, investors can choose to cash out their investments. This also results in similar tax liabilities as mentioned above. It’s important to note that DST investments are generally considered to be illiquid, and investors typically only can cash out when the DST liquidates.1 ### 1031 Exchange DST investors can also opt for a full or partial 1031 exchange. Since DSTs are recognized as direct property ownership for tax purposes, this option allows investors to defer capital gains tax by reinvesting in another like-kind property which could include another DST or any other permitted “like-kind” 1031 replacement property option. ### DSTs versus Traditional Investment Properties In comparison to traditional investment properties, DSTs often provide more flexibility in terms of estate planning and diversification. Since DST interests are divisible, investors can plan to bequeath portions of DST investments among heirs allowing them to make independent decisions to either continue to hold the investment or cashing out. Heirs will also receive a step-up in tax basis.  Moreover, due to relatively low minimum investment requirements, DST investors have more options to diversify their investments into multiple DSTs thereby potentially providing added risk mitigation.  ### 721 Exchange (UPREIT) This is a unique option available to certain DST investors. It involves contributing the DST property interests to an Umbrella Partnership Real Estate Investment Trust (UPREIT) in exchange for operating partnership units (similar to shares) in a REIT managed by the DST sponsor.  This allows for tax deferral and offers benefits like diversification, increased liquidity, and estate planning possibilities. However, once this option is chosen, the ability to continue deferring taxes through 1031 exchanges is lost. This option is generally available only to investors who own shares in a DST that has been designated by a REIT for acquisition. In conclusion, both 1031 exchange and DST investors need to carefully consider their exit strategies, keeping in mind their long-term investment goals and tax implications. Each strategy has its own set of benefits and limitations, and the choice largely depends on the individual investor's financial situation, risk tolerance, and future plans. Consulting with financial and tax advisors is recommended to make an informed decision that aligns with personal investment objectives. We encourage you to reach out to our team of professionals at FGG1031 | First Guardian Group for additional insights.  Please download our ebook for more information about Real Estate Tax Deferral Strategies.  [![](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/5468919/interactive-183026367800.png)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLK8oZXhXGxMW0NixReC69wx%2BvBODbkkPShkMnvsbH0TzgfbIL9nx42XM3XvYme6iDK6Z9Rw%2FzvHecBFohpTJpY7C2xp1RL%2F9WLaeRqKChyJ8WLaV2wpnKbFbNZDX5Y3xxRAVyIN7JlgTgrMwjf7KodbfEjbwnMyEk%2BAX%2FcWzpvsMnxyMhfQJ768w2%2BTl%2FWmrUQCrSdaTpNSfJN2jzWCioJu9DGQ00%2BprVjKX3oQSCq4&webInteractiveContentId=183026367800&portalId=5468919)   1. Investors may also have an option to sell their interests to other investors.  ### [Paul Getty](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/author/paul-getty) Paul M. Getty is one of the most experienced 1031 exchange specialists in the United States, with a career in real estate that spans over 35 years and more than $5 billion in commercial transactions across every major asset class. His work covers single-family rentals, apartments, retail, office, multifamily, and student and senior housing, giving him a practical understanding of how different property types perform across market cycles and how investors can move between them using tax-deferred exchange strategies. As President and CEO of FGG1031 | First Guardian Group, Paul advises investors through the full 1031 exchange process, from identifying qualifying replacement properties to structuring acquisitions through Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) and wholly owned real estate. His guidance covers both the compliance requirements of a valid exchange and the investment decisions that determine long-term portfolio outcomes – a combination that is difficult to find in a single advisor. Paul holds a California and Texas real estate broker license and carries Series 22, 62, 63, and 82 securities licenses as a registered representative with Emerson Equity LLC, member FINRA /SIPC. He has represented buyers and sellers across complex commercial transactions, sourced and structured debt and equity, and worked alongside nationally recognized firms including Marcus Millichap, CBRE, JP Morgan, and Morgan Stanley. Before founding FGG1031, he co-founded Venture Navigation, a boutique investment banking firm whose M&A and IPO activity generated over $700 million in investor returns. Paul holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Michigan and a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Wayne State University. He has also completed coursework in artificial intelligence at Stanford University. He is the author of four books on real estate investing and tax deferral strategy, including Tax Deferral Strategies Utilizing the Delaware Statutory Trust (DST) and Real Estate Investing in the New Era, both available on Amazon. A frequent speaker on 1031 exchanges, DST investing, and real estate tax strategy, Paul Getty is a recognized voice for investors and advisors seeking guidance on capital preservation through tax-deferred real estate investment. ## Your Comments : This is a search field with an auto-suggest feature attached. - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. - Latest Posts - Popular Posts [Partial 1031 Exchange: How It Works, What Gets Taxed, and When It May Make Sense](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/partial-1031-exchange-how-it-works) [ 1031 Exchange](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/topic/1031-exchange) [721 UPREIT Options in DST Programs (Part 3)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/721-upreit-options-in-dst-programs) [ Real Estate Investors](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/topic/real-estate-investors) [ DST](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/topic/dst) [ 721 Exchange](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/topic/721-exchange) [ UPREIT](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/topic/upreit) [ New featured](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/topic/new-featured) [Can a 9% Taxable Return Beat a 4.5% Tax Advantaged DST?](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/can-a-9-taxable-return-beat-a-4.5-tax-advantaged-dst) [ Real Estate Investors](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/topic/real-estate-investors) [ DST](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/topic/dst) [ New featured](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/topic/new-featured) ### Categories - [1031 Exchange (143)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/1031-exchange) - [DST (59)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/dst) - [Real Estate Investors (43)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/real-estate-investors) - [Blog (41)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/blog) - [New featured (36)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/new-featured) - [Taxes (18)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/taxes) - [Estate Planning (10)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/estate-planning) - [Investor (8)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/investor) - [REIT (7)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/reit) - [Capital Gains (6)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/capital-gains) - [Qualified Intermediary (6)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/qualified-intermediary) - [721 Exchange (4)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/721-exchange) - [Featured (4)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/featured) - [Opportunity Zones (4)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/opportunity-zones) - [1031 Exchange Funds (3)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/1031-exchange-funds) - [Inflation (3)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/inflation) - [Retirement Planning (3)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/retirement-planning) - [Reverse 1031 Exchange (3)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/reverse-1031-exchange) - [TIC (3)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/tic) - [Apartment Market (2)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/apartment-market) - [Boot (2)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/boot) - [CA Landlords (2)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/ca-landlords) - [Covid-19 (2)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/covid-19) - [Depreciation (2)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/depreciation) - [Depreciation Recapture (2)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/depreciation-recapture) - [IRS (2)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/irs) - [NNN (2)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/nnn) - [UPREIT (2)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/upreit) - [1033 Exchange (1)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/1033-exchange) - [1099A (1)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/1099a) - [AB1771 (1)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/ab1771) - [CPA (1)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/cpa) - [Cost Segregation (1)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/cost-segregation) - [Mortgage (1)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/mortgage) - [PPM (1)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/ppm) - [Rent Relief (1)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/rent-relief) - [Retail (1)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/retail) - [The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (1)](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/tag/the-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act) see all ### Read more of what you like. ## [Safeguarding Your Wealth: An Introduction to Asset Protection for Real Estate Investors](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/safeguarding-your-wealth-an-introduction-to-asset-protection-for-real-estate-investors) ## [Making the Most of Your Rental Property Tax Benefits - A Quick Refresher](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/making-the-most-of-your-rental-property-tax-benefits) ## [Implications of a Failed 1031 Exchange](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/implications-of-a-failed-1031-exchange) [![FGG_Footer_White](https://blog.fgg1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/FirstGuardianGroup_2022/FGG_Footer_White.png?width=300&height=95&name=FGG_Footer_White.png "FGG_Footer_White")](http://fgg1031.com) 97 East Brokaw Road, Suite 350, San Jose, CA 95112 [(866) 398 1031](tel:(866)%20398%201031) [info@firstguardiangroup.com](mailto:info@firstguardiangroup.com) ## Recent Blogs - [Investing in Senior Housing October 20, 2022](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/investing-in-senior-housing) - [A Closer Look at the 7 Deadly Sins October 20, 2022](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/a-closer-look-at-the-seven-deadly-sins) - [What is a Springing LLC? October 20, 2022](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/what-is-a-springing-llc) ## Useful Links - Home - About Us - Blogs - Testimonials from Past Customers - Resource Center - Current Offerings Disclaimer: There is no guarantee that any strategy will be successful or achieve investment objectives. All real estate investments have the potential to lose value during the life of the investments. This material does not constitute an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Such offers can be made only by the confidential Private Placement Memorandum (the “Memorandum”). Please be aware that this material cannot and does not replace the Memorandum and is qualified in its entirety by the Memorandum. This material is not intended as tax or legal advice so please do speak with your attorney and CPA prior to considering an investment. This material contains information that has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, FGG1031, First Guardian Group, LightPath Capital, Inc., and their representatives do not guarantee the accuracy and validity of the information herein. Investors should perform their own investigations before considering any investment. There are material risks associated with investing in real estate, Delaware Statutory Trust (DST) and 1031 Exchange properties. These include, but are not limited to, tenant vacancies, declining market values, potential loss of entire investment principal. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results: potential cash flow, potential returns, and potential appreciation are not guaranteed in any way and adverse tax consequences can take effect.  The income stream and depreciation schedule for any investment property may affect the property owner’s income bracket and/or tax status. An unfavorable tax ruling may cancel deferral of capital gains and result in immediate tax liabilities. All financed real estate investments have a potential for foreclosure. Delaware Statutory Trust (DST) investments are commonly offered through private placement offerings and are illiquid securities. There is no secondary market for these investments. Like any investment in real estate, if a property unexpectedly loses tenants or sustains substantial damage, there is potential for suspension of cash flow distributions. Costs associated with the transaction may impact investors’ returns and may outweigh the tax benefits. IRC Section 1031, IRC Section 1033, and IRC Section 721 are complex tax codes; therefore, you should consult your tax and legal professional for details regarding your situation. DST 1031 properties are only available to accredited investors (generally described as having a net worth of over one million dollars exclusive of primary residence) and accredited entities only (generally described as an entity owned entirely by accredited individuals and/or an entity with gross assets of greater than five million dollars). If you are unsure if you are an accredited investor and/or an accredited entity, please verify with your CPA and Attorney prior to considering an investment. Securities offered through registered representatives of [LightPath Capital, Inc.](http://www.lightpathcapital.com/) Member [FINRA](http://www.finra.org/) / [SIPC](https://www.sipc.org/). FGG1031, First Guardian Group, and LightPath Capital, Inc. are separate entities. Copyright 2022, All Rights Reserved, FGG1031 [![FGG_Footer_White](https://blog.fgg1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/FirstGuardianGroup_2022/FGG_Footer_White.png?width=300&height=95&name=FGG_Footer_White.png "FGG_Footer_White")](http://fgg1031.com) 97 East Brokaw Road, Suite 350, San Jose, CA 95112 [(866) 398 1031](tel:(866)%20398%201031) [info@firstguardiangroup.com](mailto:) [![Bitmap](https://blog.fgg1031.com/hubfs/FirstGuardianGroup_2023/Bitmap.png)](https://brokercheck.finra.org/individual/summary/6470002) ## Recent Blogs - [Understanding the Difference Between Inheritance and Estate Tax August 3, 2023](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/understanding-the-difference-between-inheritance-and-estate-tax) - [Public or Private Real Estate? Your Investment Portfolio May Need Both July 27, 2023](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/public-or-private-real-estate-your-investment-portfolio-may-need-both) - [How to Use 1031 Exchange Funds to Improve Your Replacement Property July 20, 2023](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog/how-to-use-1031-exchange-finds-to-improve-your-replacement-property) ## Useful Links - [Home](http://fgg1031.com/) - [About Us](https://fgg1031.com/about-us/) - [Blogs](https://blog.fgg1031.com/blog) - Testimonials from Past Customers - [Resource Center](https://fgg1031.com/resource-center/) - [Current Offerings](https://fgg1031.com/property-listings-directory/) FGG1031 | First Guardian Group and Emerson Equity LLC do not provide legal or tax advice. Securities offered through [Emerson Equity LLC](http://www.emersonequity.com/) Member [FINRA/SIPC](http://finra.org/) and MSRB registered. Emerson Equity LLC is unaffiliated with any entity herein. 1031 Risk Disclosure: - There is no guarantee that any strategy will be successful or achieve investment objectives; - Potential for property value loss – All real estate investments have the potential to lose value during the life of the investments; - Change of tax status – The income stream and depreciation schedule for any investment property may affect the property owner’s income bracket and/or tax status. An unfavorable tax ruling may cancel deferral of capital gains and result in immediate tax liabilities; - Potential for foreclosure – All financed real estate investments have potential for foreclosure; ·Illiquidity – Because 1031 exchanges are commonly offered through private placement offerings and are illiquid securities. There is no secondary market for these investments; - Reduction or Elimination of Monthly Cash Flow Distributions – Like any investment in real estate, if a property unexpectedly loses tenants or sustains substantial damage, there is potential for suspension of cash flow distributions; - Impact of fees/expenses – Costs associated with the transaction may impact investors’ returns and may outweigh the tax benefits No offer to buy or sell securities is being made. Such offers may only be made to qualified accredited investors via private placement memorandum. Risks detailed in a private placement memorandum should be carefully reviewed, understood and considered before making such an investment. Prospective strategies and products used in any tax advantaged investment planning should be reviewed independently with your tax and legal advisors. Changes to the tax code and other regulatory revisions could have a negative impact upon strategies developed and recommendations made. Past performance and/or forward looking statements are never an assurance of future results. Many of the investments offered will be only available to those investors meeting the definition of an Accredited Investor under SEC Rule 501(A) and offered as Regulation D private placement securities via a Private Placement Memorandum (“PPM”). Prospective investors must receive, read and understand all of the risks associated with buying private placement securities. Investments are not guaranteed or [FDIC](http://fdic.org/) insured and risks may include but are not limited to illiquidity, no guarantee of income or guarantee that all tax advantages or objectives will be met and complete loss of principal investment could occur. **Risk Disclosure:** Alternative investment products, including real estate investments, notes & debentures, hedge funds and private equity, involve a high degree of risk, often engage in leveraging and other speculative investment practices that may increase the risk of investment loss, can be highly illiquid, are not required to provide periodic pricing or valuation information to investors, may involve complex tax structures and delays in distributing important tax information, are not subject to the same regulatory requirements as mutual funds, often charge high fees which may offset any trading profits, and in many cases the underlying investments are not transparent and are known only to the investment manager. Alternative investment performance can be volatile. An investor could lose all or a substantial amount of his or her investment. Often, alternative investment fund and account managers have total trading authority over their funds or accounts; the use of a single advisor applying generally similar trading programs could mean lack of diversification and, consequently, higher risk. There is often no secondary market for an investor's interest in alternative investments, and none is expected to develop. There may be restrictions on transferring interests in any alternative investment. Alternative investment products often execute a substantial portion of their trades on non-U.S. exchanges. Investing in foreign markets may entail risks that differ from those associated with investments in U.S. markets. Additionally, alternative investments often entail commodity trading, which involves substantial risk of loss. NO OFFER OR SOLICITATION: The contents of this website: (i) do not constitute an offer of securities or a solicitation of an offer to buy of securities, and (ii) may not be relied upon in making an investment decision related to any investment offering by FGG1031 | First Guardian Group, Emerson Equity LLC, or any affiliate, or partner thereof. FGG1031 | First Guardian Group does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein. Copyright 2026, All Rights Reserved, FGG1031