Our Process
Our process is built to protect your gains, optimize your reinvestment, and guide you with clarity. With Breakwater Exchange, every step is handled with care.
The Breakwater Exchange Difference: Access, Strategy & Transparency
Our team gives investors access to the most exclusive line of 1031 exchange solutions , far beyond what traditional brokers provide. While most advisors rely on standard DSTs and bury you in advisory fees or vague timelines, we offer custom-fit strategies backed by clear communication and full transparency. You’ll never be left guessing, pressured into a limited offering, or asked to carry the process alone. We handle the details so you can focus on the outcome.
Our process, step by step
Step 1
Every great exchange starts with a conversation. Breakwater Exchange begins by learning your specific financial goals, tax exposure, and investment preferences. Whether you’re selling one property or multiple, we’ll help you understand your available strategies and determine whether we’re the right fit. From traditional DSTs to advanced structures, you’ll gain clarity on your options and confidence in the path forward.
Step 2
After outlining a plan, Breakwater Exchange connects you directly with reputable sponsors who offer real, available properties aligned with your timeline and financial needs. You get firsthand access to managers, their investment philosophies, and the deals they currently oversee. This sponsor-level transparency empowers you to ask questions, compare offerings, and feel confident in your decisions.
Step 3
Once you’re comfortable, Breakwater Exchange will assist in reserving equity in one or more properties that meet your goals. Our team helps coordinate identification with your Qualified Intermediary (QI), ensuring all IRS requirements are met accurately and on time. Should your sale fall through or your plans change, you’re never locked in; reservations are flexible. We also connect you to trusted QIs if you need one, keeping your timeline and strategy fully supported.
Step 4
When you’re ready to proceed, Breakwater Exchange prepares and organizes all necessary investment documents. Because our process avoids bank involvement, it’s faster, smoother, and less stressful. You’ll be surprised how efficient and seamless this step becomes with expert coordination behind the scenes.
Step 5
With everything in place, Breakwater Exchange helps coordinate the secure transfer of funds from escrow to your QI and ultimately to the selected DST or real estate structure. This step can often be completed in 3–5 business days, minimizing downtime between selling and reinvesting. Our clients love how efficiently we handle this stage, often avoiding any disruption in income.
Step 6
After closing, your potential income distributions begin accruing right away, often within the first month. Distributions are typically prorated depending on your closing date, and many sponsors pay monthly. While distributions are never guaranteed, Breakwater Exchange’s due diligence process focuses on strong, stabilized assets.
Step 7
A true exchange partner doesn’t disappear after closing. We stay connected , monitoring your investment performance and reviewing your plan regularly. As market conditions evolve or your life circumstances change, Breakwater Exchange helps you stay ahead with proactive advice and tailored adjustments.
Step 8
Over time, you may need access to capital. Whether it’s for unexpected expenses or shifting priorities, Breakwater Exchange helps you explore potential liquidity solutions, including reselling your interests to other investors when possible. While real estate investments are inherently illiquid, we guide you through what’s realistic and available. Many brokers stop at closing; we stay engaged, providing insight and flexibility even after the investment is placed.
Free 1031 proposal
Access Investment Offerings Other Brokers Can’t Provide
Breakwater Exchange’s expert guidance helps you maximize returns while minimizing tax exposure, so you can invest with clarity and confidence.
- years of experience
- 20+
- in DST transactions
- $1B+
- states licensed
- 50
- vetted national sponsors
- 8