If you’ve ever been through a 1031 exchange, you know the clock starts ticking the moment your downleg property closes. With just 45 days to identify potential replacements, finding the right deal in a competitive market can feel like a race against time. In 2025, with limited inventory and rising buyer demand, success isn’t about luck—it’s about having a strategy.
The most important move a 1031 buyer can make is partnering with a broker who knows how to uncover opportunities that aren’t sitting on the open market. Off-market access gives you a critical edge, especially when time is short and competition is fierce. When your broker can present vetted options quickly—often before they’re publicly available—you’re already ahead of the pack.
Another key to winning in this environment is focusing on properties that are ready to go. That means the zoning is appropriate, the occupancy situation is clear, and financing hurdles have been addressed in advance. Whether you’re buying a net-leased asset, a hospitality property, or something with value-add potential, having these boxes checked makes it far easier to meet your deadlines without compromising quality.
Speed matters. That means having your paperwork in order, your lender engaged, and your team aligned before you make an offer. Sellers in today’s market want certainty—and being a prepared buyer can often win you the deal, even over someone offering more money.
If you’re facing a 1031 exchange, don’t wait until the last minute. The right strategy—and the right advisor—can turn a stressful deadline into a successful acquisition.