A 1031 exchange is a provision in the federal tax code that permits a seller of investment property to reinvest the proceeds of the sale into another investment property, deferring the capital gains tax to a later date. It’s a great way to save money as an investor and it’s important to employ the services of an experienced real estate attorney when you’re considering doing a 1031 exchange, as there are many rules and IRS regulations that must be complied with.