Navigating 1031 Exchange Rules in Hawaii A Guide to Tax Deferred Real Estate Investing in the Aloha State
1031 exchange Hawaii rules

Quick Facts
- In Hawaii, Section 1031 exchanges are governed by both federal and state tax laws, with the state following federal guidelines but having some additional requirements.
- A 1031 exchange in Hawaii allows investors to exchange ‘like-kind’ properties while deferring capital gains tax.
- To qualify, the relinquished and replacement properties must be held for investment or used for productive use in a trade or business.
- In Hawaii, some properties that may qualify for 1031 exchanges include real estate investments, rental properties, and certain types of vacation rentals.
- Single-family homes in Hawaii typically do not qualify for 1031 exchanges unless they are used as investment properties or rental properties.
- Hawaii 1031 exchanges must follow the standard federal rules for 45-day identification periods and 180-day exchange periods.
- Direct property transfers are not allowed in Hawaii 1031 exchanges; investors must use a qualified intermediary to facilitate the exchange.
- Sales proceeds from the relinquished property must be reinvested in replacement property in Hawaii or elsewhere in the US.
- Replacement properties acquired through a Hawaii 1031 exchange may be subject to state taxes if they are not held for at least a two-year period.
- A QI or Facilitator generally charges a fee of $1,000 to $2,000 for a Hawaii 1031 exchange, but other costs may apply.
Table of Contents
- 1031 Exchange Rules
- Hawaii 1031 Exchange Types
- Hawaii 1031 Exchange Costs
- Hawaii 1031 Exchange Experts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Resources & Links
1031 Exchange Hawaii Rules: A Guide to Real Estate Investing in Paradise
Hawaii, with its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes, is a sought-after destination for real estate investors. For those looking to buy and sell properties in the Aloha State, understanding the 1031 exchange Hawaii rules is essential. In this article, we will break down the complex regulations surrounding 1031 exchanges in Hawaii, providing you with a comprehensive guide to real estate investing in paradise.
What is a 1031 Exchange?
A 1031 exchange, also known as a like-kind exchange, is a tax-deferred exchange of one investment property for another. This allows investors to swap properties without incurring capital gains taxes, making it a popular strategy for real estate investors. The 1031 exchange rules in Hawaii are governed by the federal government, but the state has its own set of regulations and guidelines.
Hawaii 1031 Exchange Rules
In Hawaii, 1031 exchanges are subject to the following rules:
Like-Kind Property: The replacement property must be like-kind to the relinquished property. For example, you can exchange a rental property for another rental property, but not for a personal residence.
Exchange Periods: You have 45 days from the date of closing on the relinquished property to identify potential replacement properties. You then have 180 days to complete the exchange.
State Tax Implications: While 1031 exchanges are tax-deferred at the federal level, Hawaii state taxes may still apply.
1031 Exchange Hawaii Timeline
Here is a breakdown of the 1031 exchange timeline in Hawaii:
Day 1-45: Identify potential replacement properties
Day 1-45: Enter into a purchase agreement for the replacement property
Day 1-180: Complete the exchange
Hawaii 1031 Exchange Types
There are several types of 1031 exchanges in Hawaii:
Delayed Exchange: The most common type of 1031 exchange, where the relinquished property is sold before the replacement property is acquired.
Simultaneous Exchange: The relinquished property is sold and the replacement property is acquired at the same time.
Reverse Exchange: The replacement property is acquired before the relinquished property is sold.
Hawaii 1031 Exchange Costs
There are several costs associated with a 1031 exchange in Hawaii:
Exchange Fees: 1-2% of the total transaction value
Title Insurance: $1,000-$2,000
Escrow Fees: $1,000-$2,000
Tax Professional Fees: $1,000-$2,000
| Cost | Estimated Amount |
|---|---|
| Exchange Fees | 1-2% of total transaction value |
| Title Insurance | $1,000-$2,000 |
| Escrow Fees | $1,000-$2,000 |
| Tax Professional Fees | $1,000-$2,000 |
Hawaii 1031 Exchange Experts
At Hawaii Elite Real Estate, we have a team of experienced real estate agents and tax professionals who specialize in 1031 exchanges. We can guide you through the complex process and ensure that you comply with all regulations and guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What is a 1031 exchange?
A: A 1031 exchange is a tax-deferred exchange that allows real estate investors to exchange one investment property for another without having to pay capital gains tax on the sale of the first property.
Q: Do Hawaii state laws follow federal 1031 exchange rules?
A: Yes, Hawaii state laws follow federal 1031 exchange rules, allowing investors to defer state and federal taxes.
Q: How long do I have to close on the new property in a 1031 exchange in Hawaii?
A: In a 1031 exchange, you have 180 days to close on the new property from the date the old property sells. However, you must also identify potential replacement properties within 45 days of the sale of the old property.
Q: Can I do a 1031 exchange on my primary residence in Hawaii?
A: No, primary residences are not eligible for a 1031 exchange in Hawaii.
Q: Can I use a 1031 exchange to trade down to a less expensive property in Hawaii?
A: Yes, a 1031 exchange in Hawaii allows you to trade down to a less expensive property, but you will still be required to pay taxes on the difference in value.
Q: Can I use a 1031 exchange to trade into a more expensive property in Hawaii?
A: Yes, a 1031 exchange in Hawaii allows you to trade up to a more expensive property, and you can use additional funds to cover the difference in price.
Q: What type of property qualifies for a 1031 exchange in Hawaii?
A: Any type of real estate that is held for investment or used in a trade or business qualifies for a 1031 exchange in Hawaii, including rental properties, commercial buildings, and land.
Q: Do I need a qualified intermediary to facilitate a 1031 exchange in Hawaii?
A: Yes, it is highly recommended that you use a qualified intermediary to facilitate a 1031 exchange in Hawaii to ensure that the exchange is done correctly.
Q: What happens if I sell a property that has been used as a vacation rental in Hawaii and then want to buy a primary residence?
A: If you sell a property that has been used as a vacation rental and then want to buy a primary residence, you will need to pay taxes on the gain from the sale of the rental property and cannot use a 1031 exchange.
Q: How do I document my intent to use a 1031 exchange in Hawaii?
A: Documenting your intent to use a 1031 exchange in Hawaii involves signing a written contract with the seller of the replacement property stating that the buyer intends to use the property as a 1031 exchange.
Resources & Links
IRS Publication 544: Sales and Other Dispositions of Assets
Investopedia: 1031 Exchange Rules
DTTW Law: 1031 Exchanges in Hawaii
For Buyers & Sellers
A Guide to 1031 Exchange Hawaii Rules: What Home Buyers and Sellers Need to Know
As a home buyer or seller in Hawaii, understanding the 1031 exchange rules can make a significant impact on your real estate transactions. A 1031 exchange allows investors to defer capital gains taxes on the sale of investment properties by reinvesting the proceeds into a like-kind property. Here’s how Hawaii-specific rules can affect your home buying or selling experience:
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