What is a “1031 exchange”?

A 1031 exchange refers specifically to a provision in the Internal Revenue Code that allows investors to defer paying capital gains taxes on the sale of a property, provided that the proceeds are reinvested in a similar property of equal or greater value. This tax-deferral strategy is especially advantageous for real estate investors who want to upgrade their investments without immediate tax consequences. By participating in a 1031 exchange, investors can effectively roll over their gains into a new property, allowing for potential greater cash flow and appreciation over time without being burdened by the tax liabilities that would normally result from selling a property. This makes option B the correct choice as it captures the essence of what a 1031 exchange entails.