Hidden Risks That Could Jeopardize Your 1031 Exchange

Not all QIs are created equal.

The 1031 Exchange industry is not regulated. QIs should not engage in practices that increase your tax risk.

Trust Starts with Solid Business Practices and Compliance: Lessons from the Latest Study

Compliance and sound business ethics aren’t just best practices — they’re what build trust. According to a new study, 65% of Americans believe financial referral fees, kickbacks, and revenue-sharing arrangements are unethical or questionable, and 90% say they would be concerned if these incentives weren’t disclosed. That’s why IPX1031 prioritizes strict IRS compliance and client-first practices. As you consider your 1031 Exchange, make sure your Qualified Intermediary not only protects your assets but also upholds the highest ethical and regulatory standards.

Exchangers: Could Your Qualified Intermediary Jeopardize Your Exchange?

Is your QI putting your 1031 Exchange at risk? Here’s what you need to know:

Partnerships that lead to referral fees may disqualify the 1031 Exchange and trigger unexpected tax consequences.
Ask your broker/agent if they are receiving a referral fee or revenue share from your Qualified Intermediary.
IPX1031 does NOT pay referral fees or revenue share with any other company/entity. IPX1031 is fully compliant with RESPA.
The 1031 industry is not regulated by the federal government
IPX1031 offers industry leading assurances: $100M Fidelity Bond, $50M Written Performance Guaranty, $30M Errors and Omissions Insurance per exchange; owned by a Fortune 500 Company, secure transaction process, segregated bank accounts, and transparent practices.
Know who you are doing business with. Ask the tough questions – vet your Qualified Intermediary.
Ask your QI if your funds will be comingled with other clients’ exchange funds. For security, always ask for a segregated account.

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Always verify that your Qualified Intermediary:

Operates with financial strength, experience and transparency – IPX1031 is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fidelity National Financial, a Fortune 500 company
Maintains substantial insurance – IPX1031 provides a $100M fidelity bond, $50M performance guaranty, and $30M E&O coverage
Is staffed with 1031 experts – IPX1031 is a knowledge leader in the industry with attorneys, CPAs, and the highest number of Certified Exchange Specialists® (CES®) on staff.
Segregates client accounts – IPX1031 segregates client funds in the nation’s strongest banks under each taxpayer’s ID
Has safeguards in place to securely protect exchange funds – IPX1031 has advanced systems and controls in place to safeguard funds

Brokers & Advisors: Protect Your License and Reputation

Certain referral fees may not be allowed under RESPA or various states such as California. Check with your managing broker before putting your license at risk.
Accepting a referral fee may risk fines, loss of license, and reputational damage.
Full disclosure to clients is not optional; hidden fees could lead to personal liability.
Regulators are increasing scrutiny of real estate professionals.
Kickback scandals can tarnish your personal brand and your firm’s credibility.
Working with IPX1031 shields you from conflicts of interest and aligns you with industry leaders who stand by compliant practices.

Partner with IPX1031 for compliance, transparency, and client protection.

Why Choose IPX1031 – The Safest Choice in an Unregulated Industry

1031 Exchanges provide more than just tax deferral—they serve as a strategic tool for growing, diversifying, or transitioning your real estate portfolio. Whether your goal is to consolidate into fewer properties, enter new geographic markets, or switch property types, a 1031 Exchange can offer flexibility and financial leverage.