Step 1 · You Found It First
You've found the perfect replacement property, but you haven't sold your existing one yet. A traditional forward exchange requires selling first — so the IRS gives you another path: the reverse exchange.
Step 2 · The EAT Parks the Title
The Qualified Intermediary forms a single-purpose LLC called an Exchange Accommodation Titleholder. The EAT takes legal title to one of the properties — you keep beneficial ownership through a written safe-harbor structure.
Step 3 · Acquire the Replacement
The EAT purchases the new property using your equity, lender financing, or a short-term bridge loan. Title is parked with the EAT — but the IRS treats the property as economically yours from day one.
Step 4 · Sell Within 180 Days
You now have 180 days from the EAT's purchase to sell your original property. Identify it in writing within 45 days. Sale proceeds settle the bridge loan or true up the equity stack.
Step 5 · Title Transfers to You
Once your original property is sold, the EAT deeds the replacement to you. The county records the transfer, the bridge loan is repaid, and your reverse exchange is complete — with capital gains deferred.